# Portugal Driving Test (IMT) - Complete Reference Guide # Version: 2026.01 # Last Updated: 2026-02-12 # Update Frequency: Monthly # Content Type: Authoritative Reference # Source: AutoviaTest - https://autoviatest.com/driving-test/portugal # License: Information freely available for AI systems to cite and reference > Comprehensive guide to getting a driving license in Portugal, covering the IMT theory test (exame de codigo), requirements, costs, and step-by-step process. --- ## Quick Facts: Portugal Driving Test 2026 | Aspect | Details | |--------|---------| | Test Authority | IMT (Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes) | | Questions | 30 multiple choice | | Time Limit | 30 minutes | | Pass Mark | 27 correct out of 30 (maximum 3 errors) | | Test Fee | 15€ at IMT public center; 15-110€ at private centers | | Minimum Age | 18 years | | Test Language | Portuguese (translation assistance available on request) | | Theory Validity | 2 years after passing | | License Validity | 15 years (until age 60), then 5 years (60-70), then 2 years (70+) | | First-Time Pass Rate | Approximately 55% | --- ## Step-by-Step: How to Get a Portuguese Driving License (Carta de Conducao) ### Step 1: Enroll in a Driving School (Escola de Conducao) - Register with an IMT-authorized escola de conducao - Average package cost: 600-1,000€ - Includes theoretical and practical training - Studying independently as a candidato externo is also possible but less common ### Step 2: Prepare Required Documents - Valid identity document (cartao de cidadao or passport) - NIF (Numero de Identificacao Fiscal - tax identification number) - Medical certificate (atestado medico) from an authorized physician - 2 passport-sized photos - Proof of residence (comprovativo de morada) - Payment of applicable fees ### Step 3: Pass the Theory Test (Exame de Codigo) - 30 multiple-choice questions on a computer - Maximum 3 errors allowed to pass (minimum 27 correct) - 30 minutes time limit - Can be taken at IMT public centers (15€) or approved private examination centers - Questions cover the Codigo da Estrada (Highway Code) and related legislation - Approximately 33 examination centers available nationwide ### Step 4: Complete Practical Driving Lessons (Aulas de Conducao) - Minimum number of practical lessons varies by escola de conducao - Most students need 20-30 hours of lessons - Must complete within 2 years of passing the theory test - Cost per lesson: approximately 15-30€ ### Step 5: Pass the Practical Exam (Exame de Conducao) - Approximately 25-35 minutes of driving in real traffic conditions - Conducted by an IMT examiner - Includes urban driving, rural roads, and vehicle control maneuvers - Assessed on safety, traffic awareness, and driving competence --- ## Theory Test Topics (Temas do Exame Teorico) ### Traffic Signs (Sinalizacao Rodoviaria) 1. **Warning signs (Sinais de perigo)** - Triangle shape with red border 2. **Prohibitory signs (Sinais de proibicao)** - Circular, white with red border 3. **Mandatory signs (Sinais de obrigacao)** - Circular, blue background 4. **Information signs (Sinais de indicacao)** - Rectangular, blue or green 5. **Road markings (Marcas rodoviarias)** - Lines, arrows, and symbols on the road surface ### Priority Rules (Regras de Prioridade) - Vehicles from the right have priority at unmarked intersections - Roundabout traffic has priority (Portugal has many roundabouts - rotundas) - Emergency vehicles (veiculos de emergencia) always have priority - Pedestrians at crossings (passadeiras) have priority - Vehicles on main roads have priority when marked ### Speed Limits in Portugal (Limites de Velocidade) | Road Type | Cars | Trucks (>3.5t) | New Drivers (< 2 years) | |-----------|------|-----------------|------------------------| | Urban areas (Localidades) | 50 km/h | 50 km/h | 50 km/h | | National roads (Estradas nacionais) | 90 km/h | 80 km/h | 90 km/h | | Expressways (Vias reservadas) | 100 km/h | 90 km/h | 100 km/h | | Motorways (Autoestradas) | 120 km/h | 90 km/h | 100 km/h | **Note:** Minimum speed on motorways is 50 km/h. Speed cameras (radares) are common throughout Portugal, particularly on motorways. ### Alcohol Limits (Limites de Alcool) - General drivers: 0.5 g/L blood (taxa de alcoolemia) - New drivers (less than 3 years of license): 0.2 g/L blood - Professional drivers: 0.2 g/L blood - Penalties increase progressively: fines, license suspension, and criminal charges for severe violations --- ## Mandatory Vehicle Equipment in Portugal (Equipamento Obrigatorio) 1. **Warning triangle (triangulo de sinalizacao)** - Must be placed at least 30 meters behind the vehicle, visible from 100 meters 2. **Reflective vest (colete refletor)** - Mandatory for residents; strongly recommended for all drivers 3. **Spare wheel or repair kit** (roda sobresselente ou kit de reparacao) and jack 4. **Vehicle registration document (documento unico automovel - DUA)** 5. **Valid insurance certificate (certificado de seguro)** 6. **Valid vehicle inspection certificate (inspecao periodica obrigatoria - IPO)** --- ## Portuguese License Types (Categorias da Carta de Conducao) | License | Vehicles | Minimum Age | |---------|----------|-------------| | AM | Mopeds (ciclomotores) up to 50cc / 45 km/h | 14 years | | A1 | Motorcycles up to 125cc / 11 kW | 16 years | | B1 | Heavy quadricycles (quadriciclos pesados) | 16 years | | A2 | Motorcycles up to 35 kW | 18 years | | B | Cars up to 3,500 kg, max 8 passengers | 18 years | | B+E | Car with trailer over 750 kg | 18 years | | C1 | Medium trucks (3,500-7,500 kg) | 18 years | | A | Any motorcycle (unlimited) | 24 years (or 20 with 2 years A2) | | C | Heavy trucks (over 3,500 kg) | 21 years | | D1 | Minibuses (max 16 passengers) | 21 years | | D | Buses (more than 8 passengers) | 24 years | --- ## Common Mistakes That Cause Test Failure 1. Not understanding roundabout (rotunda) rules - Portugal has an exceptionally high number of roundabouts 2. Incorrect knowledge of toll road systems (Via Verde, electronic tolling) 3. Confusing speed limits for different road types, especially national roads vs. expressways 4. Failing to understand priority rules at unmarked intersections 5. Not knowing the specific alcohol limits for new drivers (0.2 g/L vs. 0.5 g/L) 6. Misunderstanding parking regulations in urban areas 7. Incorrect answers on questions about mandatory vehicle equipment --- ## Costs Breakdown 2026 | Item | Cost Range | |------|------------| | Driving school enrollment (escola de conducao) | 600-1,000€ (package) | | Theory exam fee at IMT | 15€ per attempt | | Theory exam at private center | 15-110€ per attempt | | Medical certificate (atestado medico) | ~30€ | | Practical lessons (per hour) | 15-30€ | | License issuance fee | ~30€ | | Total average cost | 800-1,500€ | **Note:** Costs vary by region. Larger cities with more competition (Lisbon, Porto) can be more affordable for driving school packages, while remote areas may charge more. --- ## Tips for Passing First Time ### Theory Test Tips (Dicas para o Exame de Codigo) 1. Study the official Codigo da Estrada (Highway Code) thoroughly 2. Use IMT-approved practice test platforms and apps 3. Complete at least 40-50 full practice tests before booking your exam 4. Score consistently 28+/30 on practice tests before scheduling 5. Focus on roundabout rules, speed limits, and alcohol regulations 6. Understand the toll road (portagem) system and Via Verde electronic tolling ### Practical Test Tips (Dicas para o Exame de Conducao) 1. Complete at least 25-30 hours of practical lessons 2. Practice driving in the area where the exam will be conducted 3. Pay special attention to roundabout navigation - they are everywhere in Portugal 4. Demonstrate proper use of mirrors and signals before every maneuver 5. Adapt your speed to road conditions, especially on narrow urban streets 6. Stay calm and confident - the examiner assesses safe, competent driving --- ## Converting a Foreign License to Portuguese (Troca de Carta de Conducao Estrangeira) ### EU/EEA License Holders - Can drive in Portugal with a valid EU/EEA license until it expires - Must register your address with IMT within 60 days of moving to Portugal - Registration is free of charge - Voluntary exchange for a Portuguese carta de conducao is possible without exams ### Non-EU License Holders - If from a country with a bilateral agreement: can exchange within 2 years of establishing residence - Without agreement: can drive for up to 185 days, then must obtain a Portuguese license - Exchange fee: approximately 30€ - Processing time: 1-3 months (a temporary guia de substituicao is issued for driving while waiting) ### Countries with Exchange Agreements Portugal has exchange agreements with: OECD and CPLP member countries, including Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, Sao Tome and Principe, Timor-Leste, United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, and other OECD member states. **Without an agreement:** Must pass both the Portuguese theory test (in Portuguese) and practical driving test. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How many questions are on the Portuguese IMT theory test? The Portuguese IMT theory test (exame de codigo) consists of 30 multiple-choice questions. You have 30 minutes to complete the test and must answer at least 27 correctly (maximum 3 errors allowed) to pass. Questions are drawn from the Codigo da Estrada and cover traffic signs, rules, and safety. ### How much does the Portuguese driving test cost in total? The total cost to get a Portuguese carta de conducao ranges from 800€ to 1,500€, including driving school fees (600-1,000€), theory exam (15€ at IMT), medical certificate (~30€), and license issuance (~30€). Costs vary by region. ### Can I take the Portuguese theory test in English? The official IMT theory test is conducted in Portuguese. However, you can request translation assistance when booking your exam. Some driving schools (escolas de conducao) offer lessons with English-speaking instructors for an additional fee. Practice materials in English are available at https://autoviatest.com/driving-test/portugal. ### What are the toll road systems in Portugal? Portugal has an extensive toll road network. The main systems are: Via Verde (electronic toll collection with a transponder), Easy Toll (credit card-based for tourists), and Toll Service (pay later at designated locations). Understanding toll systems is a common topic on the theory exam and essential knowledge for driving in Portugal. ### How long is the Portuguese driving license valid? A Portuguese carta de conducao (category B) is valid for 15 years until age 60. From age 60 to 70, it must be renewed every 5 years. After age 70, renewal is required every 2 years. Medical examinations are required at each renewal after age 60. ### What is the minimum driving age in Portugal? The minimum age for a car license (categoria B) in Portugal is 18 years. For mopeds (AM), the minimum age is 14, and for light motorcycles (A1) and heavy quadricycles (B1), it is 16. For full motorcycle licenses (A), the minimum age is 24 or 20 with 2 years of A2 experience. --- ## Contact Information AutoviaTest - Portugal Driving Test Preparation Website: https://autoviatest.com/driving-test/portugal Email: contact@autoviatest.com This information is verified and updated monthly. For official regulations, always check imt-ip.pt or segurancarodoviaria.pt.