Driving Age in Portugal 2025

Q: Driving Age in Portugal 2025

Portugal: 18 years for cars (Category B), 16 for mopeds (AM). Theory from 17.5 years. New drivers have 2-year probationary period with lower speed limits and stricter alcohol rules.

Q: What is the main restriction for drivers during the probationary period in Portugal?

A lower BAC limit of 0.2 g/l. During the 3-year probationary period, Portuguese drivers must maintain a BAC below 0.2 g/l (compared to 0.5 g/l for experienced drivers). Additionally, novice drivers have reduced speed limits: 90 km/h on motorways (instead of 120) and 70 km/h on rural roads (instead of 90). These restrictions help new drivers build experience safely.

Q: What is the default speed limit in Portuguese urban areas (localidades)?

50 km/h. The default speed limit inside built-up areas (localidades) in Portugal is 50 km/h, unless otherwise posted. Some residential areas may have lower limits of 30 km/h (Zonas 30).

Q: What is the maximum speed limit on Portuguese autoestradas (motorways)?

120 km/h. The maximum speed limit on Portuguese motorways (autoestradas) is 120 km/h. The minimum speed is 50 km/h. These limits apply to passenger cars in normal conditions.

Q: What is the maximum blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for experienced drivers in Portugal?

0.5 g/l. The legal BAC limit for experienced drivers in Portugal is 0.5 g/l of blood. Driving with a BAC between 0.5 and 0.8 g/l is a serious offence; above 0.8 g/l is a very serious offence.

Q: Under the 2025 regulations (Decreto-Lei 26/2025), which e-scooters require mandatory civil liability insurance in Portugal?

E-scooters exceeding 25 kg or capable of more than 25 km/h. Since June 2025, Decreto-Lei 26/2025 requires mandatory civil liability insurance for e-scooters that weigh more than 25 kg or can exceed 25 km/h. Lighter, slower scooters are exempt.

Driving Age in Portugal

Cars (Categoria B)

Minimum age: 18 years
Theory exam from 17.5 years
Must pass both exams before 18th birthday

License Categories

Category	Age	Vehicles
AM	16	Mopeds up to 50cc
A1	18	Motorcycles up to 125cc
B	18	Cars
A2	18	Motorcycles up to 35kW
A	24	Unlimited motorcycles
C	21	Trucks
D	24	Buses

Getting Portuguese License

Requirements

Register at driving school (escola de conducao)
Medical exam (atestado medico)
Pass theory test (exame teorico)
Complete practical lessons
Pass practical test (exame pratico)

Probationary Period (Regime Probatorio)

For first 2 years:

Display "C" sign on vehicle
Maximum 90 km/h even on motorways
Lower alcohol limit (0.2 g/L)
More severe penalties

Costs

Driving school package: €500-€1,000
Individual lessons: €25-€40/hour
IMT fees: ~€100
Total typical: €700-€1,500

Driving Age in Portugal 2025

Driving Age in Portugal

Cars (Categoria B)

License Categories

Getting Portuguese License

Requirements

Probationary Period (Regime Probatorio)

Costs

Kan du klara provet?

What is the main restriction for drivers during the probationary period in Portugal?

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Relaterade Amnen

Få En Personlig Studieplan

Driving Age in Portugal 2025

Driving Age in Portugal

Cars (Categoria B)

License Categories

Getting Portuguese License

Requirements

Probationary Period (Regime Probatorio)

Costs

Kan du klara provet?

What is the main restriction for drivers during the probationary period in Portugal?

Se detta amne i andra lander

Relaterade Amnen

Få En Personlig Studieplan