British expats living in Portugal could be caught out by new driving licence rules coming into effect from today.
Under the changes, UK citizens living in the country will need to exchange their licence for a Portuguese one and cannot continue to use their DVLA photocard.
However, current UK licences can continue to be used until they expire, at which point a new Portuguese card will be required.
But, road users hoping to carry on with their current photocard must register with Portuguese officials.
Drivers must do this within 60 days of the issue date on a residence certificate or immediately if they have already been in Portugal for more than 60 days.
Advice from GOV.UK reads: “A new bilateral agreement between the UK and Portugal on the mutual recognition and exchange of driving licences entered into force on December 31, 2023.
“This means that if you are resident in Portugal and hold a full and valid driving licence issued in the UK or Gibraltar, you can drive in Portugal on your current licence until it expires, provided you have registered your licence with IMT.
“Exchange your licence for a Portuguese one without needing to take a test.”
Motorists hoping to apply for a Portuguese licence will have to fill out a variety of forms online before they can be capped.
Road users will usually have to provide an identification document and their driving licence.
In some cases, communication of residence with the City Council will be required for those without a Portuguese identity card.
Meanwhile, the authorities will also require a psychological assessment certificate for those applying to drive heavy goods vehicles.
A new agreement on mutual recognition of driving licences was signed by the British Ambassador to Portugal, Chris Sainty, and the Portuguese Ambassador to the UK, Nuno Brito in October.
Mr Sainty was thrilled at the new legislation which he claims will “simplify driving requirements for those travelling, working and living between the two nations”.
He added: “I am delighted that we have reached an agreement with Portugal that will mean UK licence holders resident here can use their UK licence for the duration of its validity and, if and when necessary, exchange it for a Portuguese one without needing to take any driving test.
“This allows a level playing field for all UK and Gibraltar licence holders to continue driving lawfully and guarantees recognition and exchange rights for all.”
