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International Driving Permit Portugal

International driving permit

What is an International Driving Permit?

An international driving permit is an official translation of your driver’s license. The international drivers permit can be used in 180 countries around the world. The document contains your name, photo and driver information in the 12 most spoken languages in the world. This ensures that local officials and authorities can understand your information making sure that you can travel stress free and without any complications.

Your International Driving Permit in 3 Steps

How do you obtain an International Driving Permit?

1. Sign up online

Begin your application for a translation of your driver's license.

2. Upload a photo

Make sure to upload a recent photo and follow the guidelines.

3. Wait for confirmation

Wait for your confirmation, and you're ready to travel!

Why travel with an international driving permit Portugal

Safety is very important while traveling to foreign countries. Traveling to new places with different rules and regulations can be a little intimidating. With an international driving permit you can travel with peace of mind, knowing you are always safe and secure while traveling around.    The last thing you want when traveling through Portugal is trouble with local authorities. By applying for an international driver permit Portugal, you can enjoy all the beauty this country has to offer without a care in the world!   
An International Drivers License is an official translation of your domestic driver’s license and is recognized in numerous countries worldwide. For certain countries it is obligated to travel with an international drivers license, while other countries might accept a valid domestic license, especially if it’s in a widely understood language like English.    The best way to ensure whether an International Drivers License is required is by contacting the traffic authorities. Rules and regulations are known to change so this is the safest way to be certain.

With internationaltravelpermits.com getting an international driving license is made simple. You can easily apply online in three simple steps. You start by signing up online and providing us with some necessary information. Secondly you upload a recent photo of yourself and your drivers license. Finally all you have to do is wait for the confirmation and then you are good to go!

At internationaltravelpermits.com we offer different kinds of international drivers licenses. You can choose between either an exclusive digital document or a digital document and a printed document.    Secondly you can choose the period for which the international drivers license is valid. If you travel often, it might make sense to choose for a validity of three years. You have the option to choose for one, two or three years validity. For more information about prices, please visit our pricing page!  
The easiest place to get an international driving permit is online. You simply apply from the comfort of your home and the international driving permit is delivered either in your digital or physical mailbox, or both! No fuss and no time wasted, what more do you want?

What to see and do with your international driving permit in Portugal?

Portugal: a beautiful country where history and stunning coastlines meet and where the sun seems to be shining all the time. From vibrant cities to peaceful vineyards: this country truly has it all. A dream destination for a road trip, provided you have an international driving permit of course! Here are five highlights in Portugal that are not to be missed!    Lisbon  Obviously Lisbon is a must-visit when traveling to Portugal. Drive through Lisbon’s narrow streets with amazing views of the iconic yellow trams. Be sure to grab a pastéis de nata in Belém for a true treat. Alfama’s labyrinthine is absolutely worth driving through make a stop at the São Jorge Castle for some stunning panoramic views.    The Algarve  The Algarve’s dramatic cliffs, golden beaches and turquoise waters a dream come true. Hop in the car and tour around: there is beauty wherever you look, but Praia da Marinha and Ponta da Piedade are definitely worth a visit. With an IDP in hand you are truly free to explore it all without a worry. Renting a car becomes a piece of cake!    Douro Valley  For the wine lovers among us the Douro Valley is a must-visit. Drive down the winding roads through terraced vineyards and charming villages. Obviously stopping for a tasting here and there is part of the charm.    Sintra  Sintra is home to beautiful palaces and lush gardens making it feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. Drive up the hills to explore the beautiful Pena Palace and the mysterious Quinta de Regaleira. Don’t forget to charge your camera, there are some amazing pics waiting for you!    Porto  Porto is a beautiful destination that is also not to be missed. The colorful buildings and the riverside cafés in the charming Ribeira district, will keep you hooked for hours. Cross the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge and be sure to taste some port in Porto!    With an international driving permit, renting a car is hassle-free and you are always compliant with the local traffic regulations ensuring stress-free travel! 
international driving permit portugal

Want to travel more? 

If you’re in the area there is much more beauty to discover. These beautiful destinations are close to Portugal and are definitely worth visiting as well! Don’t forget to apply for an international driving permit so you can explore these beautiful destinations fully carefree!   

What you need to know about an International Driving Permit Portugal:

If you want to avoid the hassle of buying train tickets or figuring out public transportation, consider renting a car. An International Driver’s Permit (IDP) is required for this.

Is an International Driver’s Permit required in Portugal?

Are you unsure if you need an International Driver’s Permit in Portugal? This depends on the type of driver’s license from your own country. Non-EU citizens need an IDP to drive legally in Portugal, while this is not required for licenses from EU countries.

Do American citizens need an International Driver’s Permit in Portugal?

American citizens can use their national driver’s license for a short stay (less than six months) in Portugal without an IDP. However, an IDP is needed for travel to countries like Spain after visiting Portugal. It is recommended for American citizens to obtain an IDP for unrestricted driving in various destinations. The IDP includes translations in twelve key languages, including Arabic, Spanish, Portuguese, and English, to accommodate different nationalities.

Is a driving test required to obtain an IDP?

To obtain an IDP in Portugal, you need your local driver’s license, a completed IDP application, and the associated fees. No driving test is required to obtain an IDP. However, for long-term stays and local driving, a local driving test may be required. You can easily apply for an IDP online by visiting the International Travel Permits website and providing the following documents:
  • Passport-sized photos
  • A valid driver’s license
  • A credit card for payment

Key Driving Rules in Portugal

Portugal has modern and well-maintained roads that ensure safety while driving. Make sure you have an IDP before hitting the road. Understanding Portuguese driving rules is essential to prevent accidents and fines. Traffic rules in Portugal may differ from those in your country. Here are some key traffic rules in Portugal to keep in mind:

No Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence is a major cause of traffic accidents and is strictly prohibited. The legal alcohol limit in the blood is 0.5 grams per liter. Exceeding this limit, with a blood alcohol concentration between 0.5 g/l and 0.8 g/l, can result in fines ranging from €250 to €1250.

Use of Mobile Phones While Driving

The use of a mobile phone while driving is prohibited to prevent distractions that can lead to accidents. Hands-free devices and portable devices with one earpiece are allowed. Fines can range up to €600 if caught violating this rule.

Mandatory Seat Belt

In line with EU legislation, Portugal requires the use of seat belts for all vehicle occupants, except in large vehicles like buses. Non-compliance can result in fines ranging from €120 to €600 per person without a seat belt.

Speed Limits

Speed limits vary by area: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on highways.

Parking Regulations

Street parking is generally free, and there are many public parking lots available. Pay attention to parking signs: a white and blue sign with a red line (across) indicates no parking. Yellow or red curbs also indicate no parking.

Overtaking Rules

Overtaking must always be done on the left side. Overtaking on the right in free-flowing traffic is prohibited and can result in fines from €250 to €1250. Be careful, especially when other drivers are attempting to overtake.

Understanding Traffic and Traffic Signs

Traffic and road signs in Portugal include informational, mandatory, warning, priority, and prohibition signs. These signs guide drivers for safe and smooth driving and provide crucial information about upcoming traffic conditions.