Driving in Portugal Quiz 2026: Exchanging a Foreign Driving Licence

7 questions ~3 min Last reviewed

Missing the licence-exchange window can mean retaking a driving test in Portuguese. Test what you know about driving in Portugal as a new resident.

  1. 1. Which authority handles driving licence exchanges in Portugal?

    IMT, the Institute for Mobility and Transport, handles both registration and exchange of foreign driving licences.

    Source: IMT — Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (official)

  2. 2. You hold a valid licence from another EU country and become a resident. Do you have to exchange it?

    A valid EU/EEA licence does not need to be exchanged. Residents register it with IMT and exchange it only when it expires, is renewed or has no expiry date.

    Source: Exchanging a foreign driving licence in 2026 (GrowIN Portugal)

  3. 3. How long can a visitor drive in Portugal on a valid foreign licence?

    Visitors can drive on a valid foreign licence for up to 185 days from the day after they enter Portugal.

    Source: Exchanging a foreign driving licence in 2026 (GrowIN Portugal)

  4. 4. For non-EU residents, what generally happens if you wait more than 2 years after establishing residence to exchange your licence?

    Direct exchange is generally available for two years from the date you establish residence. After that, a Portuguese practical driving exam is required instead.

    Source: Exchanging a foreign driving licence in 2026 (GrowIN Portugal)

  5. 5. When does the clock for exchanging a non-EU licence start?

    The deadline counts from when you establish residence in Portugal, not from your licence's expiry date.

    Source: Exchanging a foreign driving licence in 2026 (GrowIN Portugal)

  6. 6. Which licences can usually be exchanged without taking the Portuguese driving test?

    Direct exchange without the Portuguese exam is available for licences from OECD members (including the UK), Portuguese-speaking (CPLP) countries, other road-convention signatories and countries with bilateral agreements. IMT publishes the recognised list.

    Source: Exchanging a foreign driving licence in 2026 (GrowIN Portugal)

  7. 7. Since 21 January 2026, how are licence exchange requests submitted?

    Since 21 January 2026, licence exchanges are submitted online through IMT's "A Minha Carta de Condução" portal.

    Source: Exchanging a foreign driving licence in 2026 (GrowIN Portugal)

This quiz is general information based on Portuguese rules in force on the review date above, not legal advice. Immigration thresholds change every January with the minimum wage, and laws change often. Confirm your case with a lawyer before applying.