Driving License in ν¬λ₯΄ν¬κ° for Expats
Complete guide for foreigners getting a driving license
Quick Answer: Can you drive in ν¬λ₯΄ν¬κ° with a foreign license?
Yes, for 90 days (non-EU with agreement) or 185 days (EU). After that, you must convert to a ν¬λ₯΄ν¬κ° license. The official test is only in Portuguese, but you can practice in English with AutoviaTest.
Key Facts: ν¬λ₯΄ν¬κ° Driving License for Expats
| Test Authority | IMT (Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes) |
| Official Test Language | Portuguese |
| Grace Period | 90 days (non-EU with agreement) or 185 days (EU) |
| Theory Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Practical Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Medical Exam | Required |
| Total Cost | 100-200β¬ (exchange) or 800-1,200β¬ (full test) |
| Processing Time | 1-3 months |
Official test only in Portuguese?
Practice in English first with AutoviaTest. Learn all the rules and questions before taking the official test.
π΅πΉ Practice ν¬λ₯΄ν¬κ° Test in EnglishEligibility by Nationality
πͺπΊ EU/EEA Citizens
EU licenses valid indefinitely. Optional exchange available.
πΊπΈπ¬π§ US/UK Citizens
No agreement with USA. UK license can be exchanged.
π Other Non-EU Citizens
Must exchange within 90 days if from agreement country, otherwise full test.
π Students
Can use foreign license with IDP during studies.
License Exchange Agreements
β Direct Exchange (No Test Required)
EU/EEA countries, Switzerland, UK, Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, SΓ£o TomΓ© and PrΓncipe, East Timor
β No Agreement (Full Test Required)
USA, Canada, Australia - must take full tests
Required Documents
- βValid passport
- βNIF (tax number)
- βProof of address
- βOriginal foreign license
- βTranslation (if not in Portuguese/English)
- βMedical certificate
- βPassport photos
Costs Breakdown
| Conversion/Exam Fee | 30β¬ |
| Medical Exam | 30-50β¬ |
| Translation | 50-100β¬ (if needed) |
| Total Estimated | 100-200β¬ (exchange) or 800-1,200β¬ (full test) |
Tips for Expats in ν¬λ₯΄ν¬κ°
- π‘Test is ONLY in Portuguese - practice in English first
- π‘Brazil agreement makes exchange easy for Brazilians
- π‘NIF required before applying - get this first
- π‘Via Verde toll system - register to avoid issues
- π‘Digital Nomad Visa holders should convert early
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Portuguese driving test in English?
What is a NIF and why do I need it?
Can Brazilians exchange their license in Portugal?
Ready to Practice?
Start practicing for your ν¬λ₯΄ν¬κ° driving test in English.