If you’re moving to Portugal or already living in Portugal, you might consider getting (or retaking) your driving license here. The process is often less expensive and less complicated than in other countries, and the Portuguese driving license is recognized throughout Europe. However, the language barrier can sometimes feel intimidating. While the rules of the road are similar to those in other European countries, driving in Portugal has its own quirks. As the locals say: “Who knows how to drive in Lisbon knows how to drive anywhere in the world.”

So, how much does a driving license cost in Portugal? What are the steps to register? How do the exams work? I’m Lisbob, the expat assistant, and here’s everything you need to know about obtaining your driving license in Portugal.

How to Register for the Driving License Examination in Portugal

Deciding to get your driver’s license in Portugal is a great step! While it might seem daunting—especially if you don’t speak Portuguese—it’s often easier and cheaper than in many other countries. Here’s how to get started:

1. Choose a Driving School

Your first task is to select a driving school. If you’re in Lisbon, consider Segurança Máxima, a well-known group with branches across the city. Prices for an all-inclusive package typically range from €300 to €350, which is much cheaper than in countries like France or Germany. However, beware of hidden fees, as not everything is always included.

2. Required Documents

To register, you’ll need to provide the following:

EU Registration Certificate (Certificado de registo de cidadão da União Europeia) or Residency Permit
ID photo
Valid identity card or passport
Medical Certificate (Atestado médico)
Tax Identification Number (NIF)
A completed registration form (usually provided by the school).

Many schools offer medical certificates on-site for about €15, saving you a trip to the doctor.

3. What’s Included in the Package?

A typical Portuguese driving license package includes:

28 theoretical lessons
30 practical lessons (including 6 on a simulator)
Registration for both the theory and practical exams.

Can You Take the Driving Test in English in Portugal?

Unfortunately, theoretical and practical driving tests in Portugal are conducted in Portuguese. Some driving schools offer lessons with English-speaking instructors for an additional fee, but the official tests must be taken in Portuguese.

If you’re willing to take the lessons entirely in Portuguese, it can be a great way to improve your language skills while learning to drive. However, don’t let language challenges slow you down—focus on understanding the Portuguese highway code and mastering the practical aspects of driving. You can use websites such as Bom Condutor or Testes de Codigo to practice the Portuguese Highway code.

The Highway Code Exam in Portugal

The theoretical exam is straightforward but requires preparation. The Portuguese traffic code is similar to those in other European countries, but it’s essential to attend all theoretical lessons to cover the necessary topics.

Format of the Test:

30 multiple-choice questions.
Maximum of 3 mistakes allowed.
Conducted on a computer in designated exam centers (e.g., in Lisbon, near Chelas Metro station).

Pro Tips for Passing:

The test questions haven’t changed much in years, so websites like Bom Condutor or Testes de Código offer free practice tests that closely resemble the actual exam. Most questions are common sense, but a few require specific knowledge of Portuguese road rules.

Once you pass, congratulations! You’re ready for the next step: learning to drive.

Learning to Drive in Portugal

Your driving lessons will begin with 6 sessions on a simulator. While it’s not exactly Gran Turismo, it helps familiarize you with basic car controls. Once you’ve completed these, you’ll move on to practical lessons with an instructor.

Key Phrases to Learn for Driving Lessons:

To follow instructions effectively, you only need to learn a few essential Portuguese terms:

Esquerda = Left
Direita = Right
Em frente = Straight ahead
Marcha atrás = Reverse
Estacionar = Park

Master these, and you’ll understand most of what your instructor says. Don’t hesitate to request a different instructor if you’re uncomfortable or not progressing well with the one assigned to you.

The Practical Driving Test in Portugal

The practical test takes place at the same center where you took the theory exam. By this stage, you’ll already know the environment, which helps reduce stress.

What to Expect:

Duration: 25 minutes (20 minutes driving + 5 minutes of maneuvers).
Route: Randomly selected from about 100 pre-defined routes.
Participants: The examiner, your instructor, you, and another test-taker will all be in the car.

Evaluation:

The test focuses on basic driving skills: navigating traffic, parking, and reversing. Unlike in some countries, you won’t be tested on tasks like changing a tire or checking oil levels. Results are given immediately after the test.

If you pass, congratulations! You’ll need to pay a €30 issuance fee to receive your license, which will arrive by mail within two months.

Costs if You Don’t Pass on the First Try

Failing isn’t the end of the road, but it does add costs:

8 additional lessons (around €35 each).
Re-registration fee for the exam: €90.

This can quickly add up, so it’s worth preparing thoroughly to pass on your first attempt.

Is Getting a Driving License in Portugal Worth It?

Absolutely! Whether you’re moving to Portugal for work, study, or retirement, having a Portuguese driving license makes life more convenient and opens up the freedom to explore this beautiful country. It’s cheaper and often less stressful than in other countries—just be prepared for the language challenge and local driving quirks.

Drive safe and enjoy the roads of Portugal! If you found this guide helpful, share it with fellow expats or anyone considering getting their driving license in Portugal.

Here’s a list of relevant sources :

1. Bom Condutor

Free practice tests for the Portuguese driving theory exam: https://bomcondutor.pt

2. Testes de Código

A website offering exercises for Portuguese highway code practice: https://www.testesdecodigo.pt

3. IMT (Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes)

Official website for driving license information in Portugal: https://www.imt-ip.pt

4. Segurança Máxima

Example of a popular driving school in Lisbon: https://www.segurancamaxima.pt

5. NIF Portugal Services

For expats needing a Portuguese tax identification number: https://www.nifportugal.com

6. Sapo Automóvel