Portugal introduces a major driving license reform in 2026 allowing learners to practice with family tutors instead of only driving school instructors, making learning to drive more accessible and flexible.
Licensing
Effective January 1, 2026
Before
Driving school only
All practical driving lessons had to be completed with licensed driving instructors at registered schools
After (2026)
Tutor practice allowed
Learners aged 18+ can practice with a family tutor who has held a license for 10+ years with clean record; first 12 school lessons no longer mandatory
This is a big change for Portugal. Learners can now practice with family members, not just driving schools. The tutor must have 10+ years experience, take a course, and have no serious violations in 5 years. Geographic limits and special insurance apply.
Licensing
Effective January 1, 2026
Before
Not applicable
Only professional instructors could supervise learners
After (2026)
Strict tutor criteria
Tutor must hold license 10+ years, no traffic crimes or serious offenses in 5 years, complete tutor course, special insurance required
If you want to be a tutor, you need: 10+ years driving experience, clean record for 5 years, completion of a tutor training course, and special insurance that covers learner damages. Accompanied driving is geographically limited by municipalities.
Safety Rules
Effective July 7, 2026
Before
Basic drowsiness warning only
Since July 2024, new cars required basic ADAS including AEB, ISA, and lane-keeping; drowsiness warning based on driving patterns
After (2026)
Camera-based distraction monitoring
All new cars must have Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (ADDW) with camera to detect phone use, looking away, or other distractions
EU GSR2 Phase 3 adds camera-based distraction monitoring from July 2026. Basic safety systems (AEB, ISA, lane-keeping) were already mandatory from July 2024 for new cars sold in Portugal.
Licensing
Effective January 1, 2026
Before
Digital license available
Digital license through ID.gov.pt app available but limited acceptance
After (2026)
Broader digital acceptance
Digital driving license via ID.gov.pt app accepted for more interactions including vehicle rental
Portugal's digital license in the ID.gov.pt app is being accepted in more places now. But keep your physical card for international travel - not all countries recognize digital licenses yet.
Yes. From 2026, learners aged 18+ for category B (cars) can practice with a family tutor instead of only at driving school. The tutor must have held their license for 10+ years, have no serious offenses in 5 years, complete a tutor course, and arrange special insurance.
The requirement to complete the first 12 lessons at a driving school has been removed. However, you still need professional instruction for the theory component and must pass both theory and practical tests at authorized centers. Most learners still benefit from some professional lessons.
To supervise a learner driver, tutors must: have held a driver license for at least 10 years, have no convictions for traffic crimes or serious/very serious offenses in the last 5 years, complete an approved tutor training course, and arrange specific insurance covering learner driver accidents.
Yes. Municipalities define geographic limits for accompanied driving with tutors. You cannot practice anywhere - the tutor must stay within designated areas. This helps ensure appropriate roads and conditions for learner drivers.
All rule changes are sourced from official government transport agencies and legal publications. AutoviaTest is an independent educational platform and is not affiliated with any government agency. Rules may be subject to change before their effective dates.
Information last verified: January 15, 2026
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