Month 3
Time
1 hour at IMT
Cost
€30
Difficulty
Medium
EU vs non-EU
EU/EEA: EU/EEA licences exchange directly with no test. Do it within 90 days of getting residency.
Non-EU: If your country is on Portugal’s reciprocity list (US, UK, Canada, Australia, Brazil…) it’s a direct swap. Otherwise you may need theory + practical tests.
What to bring
Your original licence
NIF
Proof of residence
Medical certificate (€30 from any GP)
Your options
IMT (in person)
The only option
€30
Book online via imt-ip.pt. The Lisbon office in Marvila has the shortest wait times.
A fiscal/legal rep
For complex non-EU cases
€150–300
Worth it if your home country isn’t on the reciprocity list and you need to convert via theory test.
Prices checked June 2026
Do it
- 1
Get a medical certificate
Any GP. €25–35 cash. Takes 10 minutes; valid for 3 months.
- 2
Book IMT online
imt-ip.pt → "Marcação online". Slots open 30 days ahead and fill in hours.
- 3
Submit your licence
They keep your original and give you a temporary paper one. New plastic card arrives by post in 30–45 days.
- 4
Check the reciprocity list
US, UK, Canada, Australia, Brazil are on it — direct exchange. Otherwise you may need a theory + practical test.
Words you'll hear
IMT
The transport authority. Handles driving licence exchanges and vehicle paperwork.
Common questions
Can I keep driving while the exchange is processed?
Yes — carry the IMT submission proof with your licence. Just don't postpone starting; non-EU licences are only honoured for a limited period after residency.
Will I have to retake a driving test?
Not with an EU licence, and not from most exchange-agreement countries. Some non-EU licences do require a practical test — IMT confirms when you file.
Do I need a medical certificate?
Yes, a basic fitness-to-drive certificate — quick at many clinics or via the official online route, and it's the thing people forget to bring.
Full checklist tracking and task completion live in the Settli app for Lisbon.