What changes for British drivers now that UK has left the EU? It all depends how long you plan to stay in Portugal and if long term, your residency status.

Driving licences issued by the UK are now considered as third country licences. Visitors will not need a Portuguese driving licence and you can remain driving if you are visiting for less than 6 months (185 days).

UK nationals who were resident in Portugal on 31 January 2020, the day the UK said its farewells, will have until 31 December 2020 to exchange their driving licences under the procedures applicable to third countries.

However, UK Nationals who moved to Portugal after 31 January 2020, will have 60 days from the date they are granted residence to exchange their driving licences. Make sure you adhere to the 60 days.

Caveat - If the application for exchange is handed in after the 90 day period, UK nationals will need to take a practical driving test and pay a fine.

You can exchange an expired UK licence for up to 2 years after the expiration date. After 2 years, you will have to pass a Portuguese driving test.

To exchange the licence, the following documents will be necessary:

 Identification document

 Proof of residence or student status in Portugal

 Fiscal identification number (NIF)

 Medical report

 Original driving licence

 Declaration of authenticity issued by the driving licence issuing authority

The costs involved are as follows:

 If the application is made within the 90 day period, the fee is €30,00 for the issue of the licence

 If the application is made after the 90 day period, the fee is €75,00 (€15 for the issue of a learner’s permit, €30 for the practical test and €30 for the issue of the licence)

​For further information

IMT – Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes Av. das Forças Armadas 40, 1649-022 Lisbon

or the UK Government site for British nationals overseas.

Disclaimer

Please note that this information is provided as a guide only. Definitive information should be obtained from the Portuguese authorities.