DiP 2025

Contents

1. Introduction 

2. Documentation 

3. Rules of the road in Portugal 

   3.1 Major differences

   3.2 Common driving offences

4. Road classes and speed limits 

   4.1 Classification of roads

   4.2 Speed limits

5. Parking 

   5.1 Improper Parking

   5.2 Restrictions on stopping or parking

   5.3 Parking ban

6. Alcohol and drugs 

   6.1 Alcohol

   6.2 Drugs

   6.3 Penalties

7. Offences and the penalty structure 

   7.1 Definition of violations

   7.2 Minor traffic offences

8. Accidents and emergencies 

   8.1 Emergency equipment

   8.2 Action in a breakdown

   8.3 Action in an accident

9. Safe driving 

   9.1 The risks

   9.2 Safe driving techniques

10. Vehicle administration 

   10.1 Registration

   10.2 Road tax

   10.3 Vehicle inspection

   10.4 Authorisation to drive

   10.5 Driving an EU registered vehicle

   10.6 Purchasing a vehicle

   10.7 Fuel

   10.8 Charging electric cars

   10.9 Insurance

11. Driving licence 

   11.1 Categories

   11.2 Non-Portuguese licences

12. Useful telephone numbers

Accident and insurance procedures provided by MEDAL Insurance ………… see attachment

1. INTRODUCTION 

The purpose of this guide is to provide you with information you need to drive safely and legally in Portugal.  All European Road Traffic Law stems from a number of Road Traffic Conventions signed by all EU member states. However, each country still retains its own legal system, laws and Highway Code regulations. 

Portuguese Highway Code (Código da Estrada)

The Portuguese Highway Code is a set of legally binding rules or requirements. Contravention of any of these automatically constitutes an offence, for which a range of penalties is laid down by law.  This guide is based on the Portuguese Highway Code. Please note that this is not a full translation of the Portuguese Highway Code.

Outline of Content

The guide includes the basic rules for safe driving, identifying potentially hazardous situations and coping with dangerous driving behaviour. We describe the basic road numbering system and explain the speed limits that apply. 

We list the documents you are obliged to carry, as well as how to deal with the police if you are stopped for any reason.

We have included information on most driving offences and we show the “seriousness” of each offence. There is advice on what to do if you find your car has been wheel-clamped and how to deal with parking fines and other fixed or minor penalties.

We also offer advice on what to do if you are involved in an accident, how to fill out an accident report form and when you must involve the police. The guide also contains an explanation of the requirements for keeping and driving a motor car, other light vehicle or a trailer on the roads of Portugal. 

The attached pages provide instructions about what to do in case of an accident. They will assist in reporting the accident properly to the insurance company so that your claim can be dealt with as quickly as possible. They are not intended to provide instructions on assisting injured people.  Both afpop and MEDAL recommend that all drivers take a first-aid course.

Safe Driving

Driving in Portugal presents its own unique set of challenges, but armed with the right information and attitude it can be a very pleasurable experience. 

afpop recommends that visitors do take particular care if driving. Driving regulations and customs are different from those in other countries and the accident rate is very high. 

Drivers must carry their licence, vehicle registration document or rental contract, proof of insurance and inspection certificate (if appropriate) at all times. 

The wearing of seatbelts is compulsory in the front and rear of vehicles. Children must be over 12 years of age or over 1,35m tall to sit in the front seat. 

The vehicle must have one red warning triangle to place behind the vehicle in case of accident or breakdown, (minimum) 1 CE approved florescent jacket is also necessary to use in case of accident or in any other situation which requires any of the occupants to leave the car while on the road. 

On motorways, drivers should not exceed the speed limit of 120km/h. They should be prepared to pay the tolls and do not use the green lanes at toll gates reserved for motorists who subscribe to the automatic pay system. Fines are imposed on those who do not pay toll fees. 

afpop recommends respect for the laws on vehicle importation. As a holidaymaker, you can bring your own vehicle into Portugal for a maximum of 183 days in any 12-month period. You must not use your vehicle for any other purpose or loan it to anyone else during that time. If you intend to stay longer, you must apply to the Portuguese Customs authority to have the car legally imported. 

Disclaimer

While every care has been taken in producing this booklet it cannot replace the law and it is not exhaustive.  Neither afpop nor the authors can accept responsibility for any omission or error in this guide.  Members with specific queries should contact the afpop office for assistance.

WE WISH YOU HAPPY MOTORING AND SAFE DRIVING

2. DOCUMENTATION

Documents You Must Always Carry

If you are driving on a public road, you must always carry the following documentation, and produce it to a police officer on demand: 

• Legally valid personal identification – a passport, EU identity card, or Portuguese resident's card (if you have a resident certificate, a passport is also required) and the fiscal number “NIF – Número de Identificação Fiscal” if you are registered in the Portuguese fiscal office.

• Your driving licence (if the licence is an EU licence and you are a resident in Portugal, you must also carry your registration from IMT).

• The vehicle registration documents (for a Portuguese vehicle the “Documento Único” or if an old car, “Livrete and Título de Registo de Propriedade”).

• The proof of insurance - Certificado Internacional de Seguro Automóvel.

• The vehicle inspection certificate (IPO)

• A “Permission to Drive” if it is not your own vehicle, this could be the car hire contract or a declaration from the owner. This is not a legal document, but it helps to inform the police that the owner gave permission to drive the car. Ask the afpop office for an example of the latter or download it from the website afpop.com.

Over the last few years, the Portuguese car documents are being gradually replaced by a single document or card. When you purchase a car or change your address and a new document is issued, a temporary substitute document issued by the relevant authorities will substitute the original documents; however, it is valid only in Portugal. 

It is advisable to carry a blank copy of the Declaração Amigável de Acidente Automóvel (Agreed Statement of Facts on Motor Vehicle Accident).  A copy of this form should be kept in your vehicle.  Copies are available from your insurance broker/company.

New Vehicles

When the vehicle is new, the vehicle registration and ownership document (DUA - Documento Único de Automóvel/Certificado de Matrícula) will not have been issued. The driver should therefore carry the Sales Declaration or receipt from the sales agent. 

Sales Declaration or temporary substitute document are not valid outside of Portugal, as they are written in Portuguese.

Other Road - Users

People in charge of pedal bicycles and horse-drawn vehicles must always carry legally valid personal identification.  It is prohibited to drive with fast scooters on cycle paths. Whilst a driving licence is not required to drive an electric scooter or Segway on the road, the rider must comply with all traffic rules – which of course implies that they know the Highway Code (Código da Estrada). Also, whenever they travel by scooter, they have to have their ID with them and cannot give a ride to other people. Scooters can only carry one person. Whilst the scooters do not require motor insurance, companies will have public liability insurance that covers the person who rented the scooter, providing any incident is not deemed to be the fault of the scooter rider, it is highly recommended that you enquire about personal accident insurance if you are renting. Electric scooters that reach a maximum speed of up to 25 km/hour or a maximum continuous power of up to 0.25 kW are equivalent to bicycles.

3. RULES OF THE ROAD IN PORTUGAL

   3.1 Major Differences

The majority of the rules of the road in Portugal are the same as in the rest of Europe. Foreign drivers applying common sense and good driving behaviour should not find themselves in difficulty on the Portuguese roads. 

All traffic drives on the right and vehicles are required to keep to the near side edge of the near side lane, wherever possible. Traffic already on a roundabout, - i.e. on your left – has priority over you, BUT at unmarked crossroads, squares or junctions where the roads are of equal importance, you must give way to any motor vehicle approaching from your right. 

Motorcycles are allowed to circulate in all bus lanes.

Drivers of motorcycles, mopeds or bicycles may not:

• Drive with hands off the handlebars, except to signal any manoeuvre.
• Continue with your feet off the pedals or support.
• Lift the front or rear wheel when starting or while driving.
• Follow side by side, unless they are traveling on a special lane and do not cause danger or obstruction to traffic.

Bicycles may ride in parallel on a road, except on roads with reduced visibility or whenever there is heavy traffic, as long as no more than two bicycles ride in parallel and this does not cause danger or hinder traffic.

Cyclists must ride on the right-hand side of the road, keeping a sufficient distance from the verges or sidewalks to avoid accidents.

Pedestrian crossings are frequent.  You can find them at 100 meters intervals on busy roads and you can also expect one on every approach road to a roundabout. As the white paint is easily worn, and normally there are no flashing beacons, they are not as visible, especially at night.  Pedestrians still have absolute priority and you should beware of cars in front of you braking hard at crossings. Whatever speed they may be driving at, local drivers are very good at giving way to pedestrians! 

The Rules on How to Circulate on Round-abouts 

It is prohibited to travel on the right-hand- lane unless it is used to take the next immediate exit. This lane should be used only if you are taking the first exit, for all the other exits you must take the left lane, indicate and move to the right lane once you have passed the exit before the one you wish to take. 

Drivers of animal or animal-drawn vehicles, bicycles and heavy vehicles, may occupy the right-most traffic lane, but need to provide the exit to drivers that circulate.

The vehicles already on the roundabout have priority.

Road Signs

The majority of traffic signs you will see as you drive around Portugal are standards throughout Europe. 

In some exceptional cases, the green light is substituted by a flashing yellow light advising “proceed with caution”.

If you have the option to turn right at a traffic light-controlled junction, a green or flashing yellow arrow that points right may light simultaneously with the main red light which is preventing traffic from moving straight ahead. This green arrow means you can make a right turn. Turning right when both these lights show red is against the law. 

A protected left turn is indicated only when on the left side of the intersection a green signal arrow points left; a green arrow pointing left on the right side of the intersection signals a yielding left turn is permitted. In many areas traffic signals are turned off or flash yellow at night. Usually in such cases signs are in place next to the signals and these then control the situation.  If there are no signs the normal priority is in force.  When fully operational, traffic lights override signs. 

• Diamond signs indicate priority

• Red triangles are warnings

• Red circles are restrictions

• Blue circles are requirements

• Squares and rectangles give guidance and information

• Two arrows pointing in opposite directions. If one of these arrows is red, it means the traffic travelling in that direction must give way to traffic travelling in the other direction

• The colour red on a Portuguese road sign signals negative information such as a warning or prohibition e.g. No bicycles. Red says don’t rather than do

• You may encounter a similar circular sign showing a bicycle on a blue background. This sign designates a bicycle path. When used on the road signs the colour blue is positive, it signals an obligatory action or some feature — such as a bicycle lane, a rest stop, or a parking garage — that you can take advantage of.  Blue says do rather than don't

There are only a few signs that you might not be familiar with. The principal ones are:

• Urban or built-up area.  This also means that the speed limit is 40 or 50km/h for cars (except for Zonas de Coexistência - where the speed limit is 20km/h)

• End of urban or built-up area

• Road reserved for motor vehicles.  This is a blue sign

• Steep hill.  In Portugal the slope is given as a percentage.  A 1 in 8 slope is shown as 12%

• Via Verde.  Found at toll booths on motorways, this lane may only be used by vehicles registered for the Via Verde system

The speed limits mentioned are applicable if there are no other speed limit traffic signs.

Priority

Unless otherwise indicated on signposts and/or road markings, vehicles approaching from your right have priority over you at main squares, crossings and junctions.  The main exception is at roundabouts (see p. 6). 

You must also give way to other road users at a junction when: 

• leaving a car park.

• entering a motorway or other road reserved for motor vehicles.

• You are driving an animal traction vehicle.

You must give way at junctions to:

• a vehicle leaving a level crossing.

• a vehicle on rails, such as a tram.

• Military convoys. 

Also: 

• Signposts have priority over posts marked on the road

• Lit signs have priority over all unlit signs

• Temporary signs have priority over all other signs

• Police officer has priority over any kind of signs

Always follow the instructions of traffic police or council workers directing traffic and controlling right-of-way.  Drivers must give way to emergency vehicles by pulling over to the right, and if necessary, pulling off the road.  On a motorway the emergency lane/hard shoulder should be left clear.

Some introductions were made in April 2020, such as the ones for “Residential or coexistence zone” (H46) - which indicates the entry into a coexistence zone, intended for the shared use by pedestrians and vehicles; a new sign for the mandatory route for motorcycles (D5c) and for roads or lanes reserved for vehicles carrying more than one person (D6a).

Seating and Safety

Children must be over 12 years of age or over 1,35m tall to sit in the front seat. Otherwise, they must be in the back seat using a car chair which is appropriate for their age. The use of seat belts is compulsory for front-seat passengers and for all other passengers where seat belts are fitted. In the following situations, children can sit in the front seat:

• child under 3 years of age - may be transported in the front seat, in the passenger seat, using a rear-facing restraint system (“Egg”), in which case the airbag in the passenger seat cannot be activated.

• child aged 3 or over - if the car does not have seat belts in the back seat or does not have a back seat (in the case of commercial vehicles or "Smart" cars, for example) with booster seat.

In cars that do not have seat belts (front and rear), the transportation of children under 3 years of age is prohibited.

All motorcyclists, including pillion passengers, must wear an officially approved model, properly adjusted and tightened helmet. With regard to the demand for helmet use by drivers and passengers of motorised bicycles, motor scooters and electric motorised, self-balancing and self-driving devices, or other similar means of circulation, the use of that safety device is recommended but not obligatory.

Mobile Telephones

It is forbidden for drivers to use a mobile phone when driving, except if it is a hands-free set.  Even though the use of a hands-free set is not illegal, the Portuguese department of transport has conducted an in-depth study of the effects of driving and holding a telephone conversation at the same time. They concluded that the distraction of talking into a telephone led to a lack of driver concentration equal to that caused by excessive alcohol. They strongly advise anyone who needs to make or take a mobile phone call when driving to pull over in a safe place, until the conversation is over.  Mobile phones can cause electromagnetic interference (EMI), but modern vehicles are designed to minimise such effects. Most vehicle electronic systems are shielded against interference from external sources, including mobile phones, Bluetooth devices and radio signals. 

Restrictions on Overtaking

It is forbidden to overtake immediately before or on railway crossings, pedestrian crossings, or crossroads and junctions.  Similarly, overtaking is forbidden on slopes, on curves or in any other place with insufficient visibility.  You must not overtake on the wrong side – i.e. no undertaking. It is forbidden to overtake a vehicle that is overtaking a third party.

The provisions are not applicable whenever there are two or more traffic lanes in the same direction, provided that the overtaking is not on the opposite side of the traffic lane.

When overtaking it is mandatory to occupy the lane on the left of the overtaken vehicle and you should keep 1,5m minimum lateral distance. The same 1,5m lateral distance must be secured when passing by a pedestrian walking on a hard shoulder.

But you can use the right side if:

• the driver of the vehicle / animal in front signalled to turn left to park on the left side of the road in a one-way street and had left his right side free for you to proceed.

• the vehicle in front circles in railways, leaving the right side of the street free, but only if the vehicle is not parked to receive or leave passengers.

Motorway Driving

Pedestrians, animals, animal-drawn vehicles, bicycles, mopeds, motorcycles under 50cc, agricultural machines and any vehicles incapable of achieving 50 km/h on a level road are not permitted on motorways. 

On motorways: 

• You are not allowed to drive without lights that function properly. This is a very serious violation.

• You must not use main beam lights that blind oncoming traffic. This is a very serious violation. This is especially important if you are driving a Right-side wheel configured car, as some vehicles will have headlights that shine into on-coming traffic.

• You must not stop or park except in designated areas.  This is a serious violation.

• You must not drive in the wrong direction. Driving in reverse or crossing over the motorway dividers are forbidden. These are very serious violations. 

• You must not drive at less than 50km/h in normal traffic flow. Classed as a minor violation.

• Vehicles measuring over 7 metres long must stay in the two right hand lanes. 

Tolls

Private companies operate and maintain much of the Portuguese motorway system, BRISA - Auto-Estradas de Portugal S.A. is the largest.  Motorway users pay tolls to cover the cost of operation and maintenance. The queue at the tollbooths can be a source of frustration for drivers, and BRISA offers an alternative method of automatic payment, the Via Verde (the green route) as well as booths restricted to payment by debit or credit card only. 

Via Verde users need to have a multibanco card or a credit card that works with the multibanco system and to be registered. Via Verde, supplies a vehicle identification unit that glues to the windscreen.  When the vehicle drives through the Via Verde toll lane, detectors recognise the vehicle and the system automatically charges the toll to the multibanco card. As well as cutting the waiting time at the tollbooths, Via Verde also offers some discounts (announced to the users). 

The electronic tolls without toll booths can be paid at the post office in the following 5 days or you can use the Via Verde systems as described in our Information Bulletin M07 Tolls. There are also options for foreign cars.

     3.2 Common Driving Offences

Minor

Some of the routine driving errors classified as minor infractions are shown here:

• Drivers must signal before pulling away and then must drive as close as is safe, to the kerb or hard shoulder. Vehicles must not drive along the hard shoulder, or in the centre of the road, nor should they cut corners

• Whenever there are two or more lanes in one direction, vehicles must drive on the lane closest to the right. The other lane or lanes should only be used for overtaking, changing direction or if there is no other option (e.g. in heavy traffic). When driving at roundabouts, specific rules apply

• You must allow another vehicle to overtake you, by moving over as far as possible to the right, but not onto the hard shoulder

Serious

• You are only allowed to use the horn in cases of imminent danger or in places with limited visibility.  Outside built-up areas, you are allowed to use the horn to alert other drivers of your intention to overtake

• For drivers from UK, Ireland or southern Africa, a common serious offence is driving on the wrong side of the road – i.e. into the on-coming traffic.  This is most common soon after arrival, especially when turning out of a one-way street or onto a roundabout

Other Serious Offences

• Driving under the influence of alcohol (between 0,5g/l and 0,8g/l)

• Driving in the wrong direction

• Excessive speed for the vehicle or road, weather conditions, traffic, or where speed should be reduced

• Breaking the rules for priority, overtaking, change of direction, U-turns, reversing or level crossings

• Stopping or parking on the verge of motorways or equivalent roads

• Not giving priority to pedestrians when turning or at pedestrian crossings

• Driving without required lights

• Not using the warning triangle, when required, outside built-up areas 

• Stopping or parking on a pedestrian crossing

• Transporting children without the necessary safety equipment

• Not having the mandatory insurance

• Driving a car at more than 30km/h above the speed limit

• Breaking the rules for heavy vehicles and towing on motorways and equivalent roads

• Crossing a continuous white line separating opposing traffic flows

• Using headphones or similar while driving

• Parking in a place reserved for disabled

• Using the mobile phone while driving
   

Very Serious

• Stopping or parking on the road; at less than 50mts of crossroads, curves or on motorways

• Parking at night outside urban areas on the road

• Stopping or parking on roadways, outside built-up areas, less than 50m from a junction, bend or where visibility is limited, or on motorways

• Parking at night on the roadway outside of built-up areas

• Not using a warning triangle when required on motorways or equivalent roads

• Use of full-beam and dazzling oncoming drivers

• Entrance or exit from motorways or equivalent roads, other than by the proper access roads

• Crossing the central reservation on motorways

• Driving in the wrong direction, breaking the rules for priority, overtaking, change of direction, U-turns, reversing or driving without required lights and not keeping the safety distance on motorways

• Driving a car at more than 40km/h above the speed limit

• Driving with a blood alcohol level greater than 0,8g/l

• Driving under the influence of drugs

• Not stopping when signalled by a traffic controller, red light or stop signs

• Crossing the continuous white separation line

• Driving a category of vehicle not mentioned in the driving licence

• Leaving an accident scene when there are injuries or deaths

• Parking or stopping on motorways

• Driving on the hard shoulder of a motorway

Driving Licence Point System 

Portugal has adopted the point system as addition penalty for serious and very serious offences.

If you are a Portuguese driving licence holder, please remember that from 1^st of June 2016, the law regarding penalty points on Portuguese issued driving licences was introduced. Holder of Portuguese licences will be attributed 12 points as a starting base. After 3 years without any penalties, the driver will receive another 3 points, always to a maximum of 15.

Serious offences will deduct 3 points from the existing points when the offence is related to alcohol/drugs, speeding within built areas and overtaking just before zebra crossings. Other serious offences will deduct 2 points.

Very serious offences will deduct 5 points when the offence is related to alcohol/drugs, speeding within built areas. Other very serious offences will deduct 4 points. When the driver had a ban to drive before the deduction will be 6 points.

This deduction of points may be cumulative in case of several very serious offences but cannot exceed 6 points in the same day, except when the offence has to do with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs in which case no limit is applied.

If a driver gets down to 5 points, they will need to undertake a road safety training; down to 3 or less points a theoretical exam has to be taken; the unexcused absence or failure in the test implies the forfeiture of the driving license, that is, you are without a driving license and will have to wait 2 years to take it again, bearing the respective costs.

When the driver loses all the points, he will have to acquire a new driving licence from the beginning, through a driving school with the minimum amount of lessons as a first timer and he will be banned from driving for 2 years.

To verify how many points you have left, you can register to the following website: https://portalcontraordenacoes.ansr.pt

Since 2015, the EU has had rules that help different countries share information about driving offences. This means authorities can track and fine foreign drivers for things like speeding, drink-driving and not wearing a seatbelt. In January 2026, the European Commission will introduce specific measures to set up the processes, details, and technical requirements needed to enforce these rules effectively.

4. ROAD CLASSES AND SPEED LIMITS

   4.1 Classification of Roads

There are two principal classification systems for Portuguese roads.  One is based on the importance of the road for communication between urban centres and indicates which authority is responsible for their maintenance.  Roads of only local importance maintained by the Municipality are classified as municipal roads (Estradas Municipais, EM) or municipal roadways (Caminhos Municipais, CM).  Roads linking towns and cities are usually national roads (Estradas Nacionais, EN), and are maintained by the national road authority.  The roads linking regional centres are classified as principal roads (Itinerários Principais, IP) and most of these are restricted to motor vehicles only or are built to motorway standards (Auto-Estradas, AE).  The national road authority owns these but often contracts the operation to private contractors such as BRISA.

Roads are also classified according in accordance with their characteristics and there are general speed limits applicable to each group of roads and for each class of vehicle using them.  The four principal groups are:

• Roads in built-up areas

• Motorways

• Roads restricted to motor vehicles only

• Other roads

Note that it is your responsibility to know what type of road you are driving on. Passing a town’s name sign is a clear message that you are entering a built-up area.  Pavements and streetlights are also good indicators.  The town name “crossed out” means you’re moving into a country area. Roads with restricted access for motorised vehicles only are marked by signs, have flyover access only, or have hard shoulders.  The end of these roads is often poorly signed.  Motorways are usually well marked with blue road signs.

Residential / Coexistence Zones

In a coexistence zone, the following rules must be observed:

• Vulnerable users (*see below) can use the entire width of the public road

• Games are allowed on the public road

• Drivers must not compromise the safety or comfort of other users from the public road, and stop if necessary

• Vulnerable users should refrain from acts that unnecessarily prevent or embark vehicle traffic

• Parking is prohibited, except in places where this is authorised by signs

• The driver leaving a coexistence zone must give way to other vehicles

Pedestrian Traffic

In Portugal, pedestrian traffic generally refers to individuals walking on pavements, sidewalks or crossing roads. Pedestrians are considered "vulnerable users" under Portuguese traffic laws, which also include cyclists, children, elderly individuals and people with disabilities.

• Vehicles may only circulate on the verges or sidewalks if access to buildings requires it, except for the exceptions provided for in local regulations

• Bicycles may circulate on the verges outside the situations provided for, as long as they do not endanger or disturb pedestrians who are using them

• Bicycles ridden by children up to 10 years old may be used on sidewalks, as long as they do not endanger or disturb pedestrians

• Electric scooters are impeded from using pavements or areas for pedestrians

    4.2 Speed Limits

The driver must regulate the speed so that, taking into account the presence of other users, in particular vulnerable users, the characteristics and condition of the road and the vehicle, the load being transported, weather or environmental conditions, the intensity of traffic and any other relevant circumstances, he can, in safe conditions, perform the manoeuvres that are necessary to foresee and, in particular, stop the vehicle in the free and visible space in front of it.

Except in cases of imminent danger, the driver must not suddenly reduce the speed of the vehicle without first ensuring that this does not result in danger to other road users, especially those driving vehicles behind.

Please remember that the figures laid down in the Highway Code are absolute, they are the law and they are judged to be the maximum speed at which it is safe to drive in good conditions. 

If you drive some unusual vehicle or tow a strange rig, contact the police for advice.

The maximum speed limits are given in the table on the next page. 

Additional speed limits apply to special vehicles. 

In addition, in the interests of road safety, national or local authorities may impose specific lower speed limits in particular areas, and these will be sign-posted.

For the table on the next page *na = not applicable

Measurement of Speed

In Portugal, speeding is measured using various methods to ensure road safety:

• Fixed Speed Cameras: These are installed at specific locations and measure the speed of vehicles passing through. Some cameras also calculate average speed over a stretch of road, such as on the Vasco da Gama Bridge

• Mobile Speed Cameras: These are operated by law enforcement and can be set up temporarily at different locations

• Unmarked Police Cars: Police may use unmarked vehicles equipped with speed-measuring devices to monitor speeding on motorways and other roads

• Radar Guns: Handheld radar devices are used by officers to measure the speed of vehicles in real-time

Police officers who write a ticket on the spot may apply a threshold of 10 per cent over the limit. However, where "zero tolerance" is in force (as indicated by special signs) no threshold is considered.

The ticket is posted within a few days to the name and address on the registration. If it's a rental or tourist-lease car, the company will get the ticket and charge you.  If you trigger a speed camera, you'll probably see the flash.  Signs usually warn drivers if such apparatus is permanently mounted along or above the road.   However, cameras are frequently mounted in unmarked police cars parked on the roadside and there is no warning given – apart from on-coming vehicles (illegally) flashing their headlights at you!

Drivers can also be fined if they travel a specified distance at an average speed above the limit set out in the table above, such as when they are automatically timed between two toll stations on motorways.

Penalties for Speeding

If you are stopped by the police for speeding, you can expect to receive an on-the-spot fine, a driving ban and another fine later and you can lose points on your driving licence if it is a serious or very serious offence.  Remember, if you are a resident, you have the option to take your on-the-spot ticket to the police station and pay it there.

In Portugal, traffic fines for foreign-registered cars are treated seriously and are enforceable across the European Union. Here's how it works:

• Immediate Payment: If you're stopped for a traffic violation, you may be required to pay the fine on the spot. Portuguese authorities often have portable payment devices for this purpose

• Cross-Border Enforcement: Under EU agreements, traffic fines issued in one member state can be enforced in another. This means that if you receive a fine in Portugal and don't pay it, the authorities can pursue the fine in your home country

• Liability: The driver is typically held responsible for the violation. However, if the driver is not identified, the vehicle's registered owner may be held liable

• Appeals: If you wish to contest a fine, you must do so within the specified period (usually 15 days). Failure to pay or appeal can lead to additional penalties, such as vehicle impoundment or restrictions on driving in Portugal

5. PARKING
   
   5.1 Improper Parking

The rule in Portugal is that parking should never impede the flow of traffic or prevent pedestrians from walking on the pavement. If you park in such a way as to constitute a danger or disturbance to traffic you may find your car clamped or removed as well as receiving a hefty fine.

      5.2 Restrictions on Stopping or Parking

In Built-up Areas it is Prohibited to Stop or Park:

• On roundabouts, bridges, tunnels, level crossings, underpasses or overpasses and in all places with insufficient visibility

• Less than 5 m to either side of intersections, junctions or roundabouts

• Less than 5 m in front and 25 m behind the signs indicating that public passenger transport vehicles are stopping or less than 6 m behind those signs when the said vehicles are travelling on rails

• Less than 5 m before and at crossings marked for pedestrians or cyclists

• Less than 20 m before vertical or illuminated signs if the height of the vehicles, including their load, obscures them

• On cycle paths, on directional islands, on central signs of roundabouts, on sidewalks and other places intended for pedestrian traffic

• On the roadway whenever it is marked with a continuous longitudinal line and the distance between this and the vehicle is less than 3 m

Outside of Towns, it is Prohibited:

• Stopping or parking less than 50 m to either side of intersections, junctions, roundabouts, curves or speed bumps with reduced visibility

• Parking in the traffic lanes

• Stopping in the lane

     5.3 Parking Ban

Parking is Prohibited:

• Preventing the movement of vehicles or forcing the use of the part of the lane intended for the opposite direction, depending on whether traffic is in one or two directions

• On the roadways, in the second row, and in all places where it prevents access to properly parked vehicles, their exit or the occupation of vacant spaces

• In places where people or vehicles access properties, parks or parking spaces.

• Less than 10 m to either side of level crossings

• Less than 5 m to either side of fuel stations

• In places reserved, by means of signage, for the parking of certain vehicles

• Agricultural vehicles, industrial machinery, trailers or semi-trailers when not coupled to the towing vehicle, except in parking lots specially designated for that purpose

• In limited-duration parking zones when the respective regulations are not complied with

• Vehicles displaying any information regarding their transaction, in car parks

Country Areas

Outside of built-up areas it is illegal to stop or park less than 50 metres from crossroads and junctions or on slopes with limited visibility or on the roadway if there is an off-road alternative.  It is also illegal to park at night or on roads marked as clearways “via com prioridade”.

Motorhomes

The overnight stay and parking of motorhomes or similar is prohibited in Natura 2000 Network areas, protected areas and areas covered by Coastal Zone Management Plans, except in places expressly authorised for this purpose.

In the rest of the territory and in the absence of municipal regulations for the activity, motorhomes approved by the Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (IMT) may stay overnight for a maximum of 48 hours in the same municipality, except in places expressly authorised for the purpose, for which no limit on overnight stays is established.

‘Overnight stay’ means the stay of a motorhome or similar, with occupants, between 22h00 and 7h00.

The Government may promote the regularisation of the overnight stay authorisation subject to daily registration on a free electronic platform that validates geolocation, keeping this registration for a maximum period of 60 days.

Clamping

If your car is clamped do not try to remove the clamp. The car will be unclamped only when you have paid your original parking fine and the penalties for clamping and de-clamping.  Clamping is carried out by the relevant traffic authorities.  These may be the traffic police, municipal police or a company contracted to provide the service to the Municipality.  The instructions of where to pay the fine will normally be given on the parking ticket left on the vehicle. Certain parking violations allow for the authorities to clamp and tow away the vehicle, for instance: 

• Not paying the parking meter fee
• Parking in a BUS lane
• Parking at a BUS Stop
• Parking on sidewalks
• Parking in reserved parking spots
• Parking in a way that blocks the access to building or garages

Towing Away and Retrieval

Your car is likely to be towed away if you “abusively park”. If it is towed away, you will not be able to retrieve it without paying the parking dues and penalties it may have attracted.  If your car is towed away from the place where you left it, you will be notified in writing to the address on the vehicle registration document and you must pick it up from the pound within 45 days. If the authorities are not able to trace the owner or address where the vehicle is registered, they are obliged to put up a notice in the town hall of the area in which the vehicle was abandoned.

If your car appears to have been in an accident before it was apparently abandoned, the authorities prefer collection from the pound to be made by the registered owner in person.  If this is not possible, a member of your family should collect it and explain why you cannot attend.  You will be given 30 days to collect it.  If you fail to collect it by the end of this period, it will become the property of the state. 

6. ALCOHOL AND DRUGS

Driving under the influence of alcohol or any substance legally considered being narcotic or mind altering is viewed most seriously.  It can lead to a heavy fine, confiscation or suspension of the driving licence and/or a prison sentence, according to the degree of intoxication. Anyone who allows a person, who is known to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs to drive, can also be charged with an offence.

      6.1 Alcohol 

Limits

A driver is considered to be under the influence of alcohol when the rate of alcohol in their blood is equal to or above 0.5 g/litre or if, after a test is completed, a medical report considers it to be so. The use of the breathalyser to measure blood alcohol level is based on the principle that 1 mg of alcohol per litre of exhaled air is the equivalent of 2.3 g of alcohol per litre of blood.

Testing 

The following must undergo the tests established for detecting states of influence by alcohol or psychotropic substances:

• Drivers

• Pedestrians, whenever they are involved in traffic accidents

• People who intend to start driving

You can be stopped at random and required to undergo a breathalyser test.  You can be breathalysed only by an authorised police officer using an official test kit.  If the result is positive, the officer must inform you in writing, or if not possible, must tell you of the result and the legal penalties arising from it. If you are in doubt about the result you can request that a second test be performed.  This can be either a further breath test or a blood test.  If you ask for a blood test you will be driven to the nearest hospital and given the test there.  If you refuse to take the test you will not be allowed to continue driving and will be prosecuted for a criminal offence.

If you are found positive you will be told you cannot drive for 12 hours, unless you can prove by a further test that you are no longer over the limit. You will also be billed for cost of your test(s).

If you are in an accident, you are likely to be required to take the test as a matter of routine. This will be either at the scene of the accident, or at the hospital. Legally, a doctor cannot refuse to test you.  If you are found to be over the limit, your car will be clamped or moved to a pound.  You will be charged for clamping or removal of your vehicle.  As an alternative, you may allow someone else to drive your car.  That person will be breath tested before they drive away.

      6.2 Drugs

If you are in an accident or if you are stopped for speeding or for a routine check, the police may have grounds to suspect you are under the influence of “mind altering” substances.  They can ask you to attend a health centre or hospital to be tested. If you are subsequently found guilty, you will have to pay for the cost of your transportation, as well as any other penalties.

      6.3 Penalties

The practice of a serious or very serious offence determines the deduction of points from the driver.

If you are responsible for an accident when driving a vehicle under the influence of alcohol (above the limit allowed by law: 0,5 g/l) or drugs, you can be criminally accused, especially if there are injuries or fatalities because of the accident.

If you commit three drink-driving or drug-driving violations within five years or less, you could be classed as tending to abuse alcohol or narcotics.  If so, your licence will be cancelled – i.e. totally revoked - for up to 8 years after which new medical and driving tests must be taken. For professional drivers, other rules apply.

7. OFFENCES AND THE PENALTY STRUCTURE
   
   7.1 Definition of Violations

The Portuguese Highway Code is a statement of the legal rules and requirement for driving in Portugal.  Breach of any of the rules is an offence, and the code lists the penalties that can be incurred for any violations.  It defines violations of the rules as minor, serious or very serious offences.  There are fines for almost every misdemeanour, starting at €30 for a minor offence, such as parking on the pavement, up to thousands of euros for most dangerous transgressions.  In addition, for the more serious offences, a driving ban can be imposed, the licence to drive can be totally withdrawn and a prison sentence awarded. 

      7.2 Minor Traffic Offences

Any traffic ticket must state the day, time, place and circumstances in which you are alleged to have committed the offence, and the name and capacity of the police officer who witnessed it. The Highway Code also states that the officer must also supply every possible piece of information regarding the identification of the offence and, normally, at least one witness who can testify to the facts.  The ticket should be signed by the officer, any witnesses and by the transgressor. If you are not willing to sign a ticket you will be issued with the notification and you will eventually be called to appear in court.

For minor breaches of the Highway Code, the police are empowered to collect on-the-spot fines and the officer will issue a receipt.  For minor offences, the traffic police will often use the opportunity to educate and not to penalise.  When stopped by the police, being polite and helpful may well help to avoid a fine.  Attempts at bribery will not be well received and could result in a court appearance.

Minor Offences - Residents

If you agree to pay the ticket, you will be charged with the minimum fine specified for that offence. You can opt for voluntary payment of this minimum amount at your local police station, the post office or by multibanco up to 20 days after you receive your ticket.  Even if you pay this minimum amount, you still have the right to appeal against the issue of the ticket.  Make sure you ask for a receipt for any payment you make.

Appealing against Tickets - Residents

When you receive your ticket, you should be notified about the facts pertaining to the violation, the expected fine, the time limit and place given for presentation of your defence, as well as your right to opt to pay the minimum fine. Note that you can pay the minimum fine and still appeal against your ticket.  Payment may be made at post offices (cheque or cash) or by multibanco.

You will be given 20 days to present your defence in writing, submitting up to three witness statements and any other means of proving your innocence.  If you receive your ticket through the post – e.g. for a speeding offence recorded by camera - it will be sent by recorded delivery to the address on the registration documents.  Your 20 days preparation period is considered to have commenced on the day the postal receipt is signed.  If you do intend to defend the case, it is advisable to consult a lawyer to prepare the statement.  After sending off your statement, you will be notified of the traffic tribunal's decision. If you disagree with this decision, you can appeal to the court.

Minor Offences - Non-Residents

If you agree to pay the penalty for a minor traffic violation, you will be charged with the minimum fine specified for that offence. Payment must be made on the spot.

If you are not officially resident in Portugal and do not agree to pay the penalty on your ticket, you will be asked to deposit an amount equal to the maximum fine foreseen for the claimed violation. The deposit must be paid immediately. If you are unable to do so, the police will impound your driving licence, car documents and ownership documents until payment of the deposit or the original fine is made.  The police will issue you with substitute documents, valid until the first weekday after the day you are ticketed. If you do not pay either the deposit or the fine by this date, you will face having your vehicle requisitioned in lieu of payment.  The legal procedures for non-residents are then similar to those for residents. 

8. ACCIDENTS AND EMERGENCIES

      8.1 Emergency Equipment

Every driver is legally required to stop and render assistance in the event of an incident. In view of this, as well as for your own benefit and peace of mind, carrying a First Aid Kit and Fire Extinguisher, and knowing how to use them, is strongly recommended. 

Warning Triangle and Reflective Vest

All moving motor vehicles, except those with only two or three wheels, must be equipped with a triangle sign for pre-signalling danger and a reflective vest. The warning triangle must be used to mark totally or partially immobilised vehicles and cargo on the roadway or on the hard shoulder. The triangle must be placed at a distance of not less than 30m behind the vehicle or cargo being signalled, and in such a way as to be visible from a distance of at least 100m. The penalty for not using a warning triangle depends on the type of road you are on and it is classed as a serious offence. The reflective vest must be CE approved and kept in the interior of the vehicle and must be worn by the driver when the vehicle is immobilised on the road and when the driver stands outside the vehicle. When for example, placing the warning triangle, replacing a tyre or removing fallen cargo.

     8.2 Action in a Breakdown

In case of a breakdown, the driver must immediately park the vehicle properly, or if that is not possible, remove it from the roadway or so that it is as close to the right edge of the road as possible.  If it is not possible to remove the vehicle from the roadway you must use your warning triangle to alert other drivers.  To obtain assistance call the breakdown recovery service (Assistência em Viagem).  The number is given on your Certificado Internacional de Seguro Automóvel. Towing by a vehicle other than an authorised tow-truck is illegal.

      8.3 Action in an Accident

If you are involved in an accident, keep calm and focus on the priorities.  A check list is provided attached.

Information to be given

The Highway Code states that all drivers involved in an accident must supply the other parties involved with the following documents: 

• The driver’s identification

• Insurance company details and policy number

• Corroborative documents when requested
   

1^st Save Life - 2^nd Prevent Further Injuries - 3^rd Treat/Reduce Pain

For example, if it’s a serious accident, you might have to decide: 

1) if you are just round a blind bend - get the warning triangle in place.

2) if there is a fire, evacuate the area - unless you are sure you know what you are doing, the fire is very small and your extinguisher is larger than most of those sold to motorists.

3) if someone is bleeding heavily, staunch the injury with a clean cloth and hold it in place.

Accident Report

Completion of an accident report (Declaração Amigável de Acidente Automóvel, agreed statement of facts on motor vehicle accident) speeds up the insurance claim process. This form should be kept in your vehicle and is available from your insurance company. A translation of the English version of this form you will find attached as an example, but we recommend completing the original carbon copy duplicate form from the insurance company.  Completing the form may assist in recording information about any accident, but it is only valid for insurance purposes if:

• There are no injuries.

• Both cars have Portuguese registration.

• The accident happens in Portuguese territory.

• Only two vehicles are involved (if more than 2, call the police or if 3 vehicles are involved, use 2 forms).

• Both vehicles are insured by Portuguese insurance companies.

• There are no disagreements about what and how the accident happened.

• The front page of the form is completed in full and both drivers sign the form.

• Report the accident to their broker or insurer within eight days of the accident.  It is best to do so immediately.

• Decide which garage will inspect and repair the vehicle.

• Complete the back of the accident report form (Participação de Sinistro).  This is best done with the broker or insurance office.

The first page of this accident statement is standard throughout Europe.  Signing this form does not constitute an admission of liability.  It should contain the identities of all parties involved and an agreed version of the facts. Both drivers must sign this form. If you are not able to agree on the version of events do not sign it, instead call the police for assistance. Also try to get the names, addresses and phone numbers of any witnesses.  Once both drivers have signed and separated the accident report, you must not add or alter any detail. 

Filling in the Accident Report Form at the Accident

At the accident scene both drivers should fill in the front of the Declaração Amigável de Acidente Automóvel (agreed statement of facts on motor vehicle accident). Use a ball-point pen and make sure the copy is legible.  All the questions must be answered, even if the answer is ‘no’ or ‘none’. Both drivers should sign the form if they agree with the statements.  Each driver keeps a copy of the form. If one driver refuses to sign the form you should call the police to make a report.  Finally, take notes to fill in the reverse of the form (Participação de Sinistro) later. After an accident, you have eight days to inform your insurance company.

After the Accident

If your vehicle cannot be driven, use only your insurer's breakdown service to move the vehicle.  Towing by another company will not be reimbursed by your insurer. Towing by a vehicle other than an authorised tow-truck is illegal.

If you have third-party insurance and only your own vehicle was damaged, you do not need to involve the insurance company.  However, if there was injury or damage to third parties or if you have comprehensive insurance, the insured person should:

Insurance Claims

Once the accident form is submitted to the insurance company, they send it to a clearing house, the Associação Portuguesa de Seguradoras. The clearance house takes 48 hours to confirm that both drivers have valid insurance.  Each insurance company can then process the claim of their own client. After agreeing how to allocate the responsibility for the accident, the two insurance companies divide the costs between themselves and their clients do not have to become involved in the process.

After receiving confirmation that the insurance is valid, the insurer arranges for an evaluation of the damage to the insured vehicle.   This is carried out by a specialist assessor at the garage nominated by the insured person. The garage submits a quotation. If both the insurance company and the owner accept the quotation the repair can go ahead.
 

9. SAFE DRIVING

Some facts about road accidents:

• Traffic accidents are the largest single cause of death and injury for young adults

• Drivers, who often exceed the speed limit, have about 3 times the accident risk of those who speed infrequently

• In more than 90 per cent of traffic accidents, human error is the cause

• The majority of accidents happen within five miles of home and with young adults up to 25 years old

• Accidents on single carriageways are four times more likely to be fatal than those on motorways

• It is four times more likely to crash whilst operating a mobile phone
   

10. VEHICLE ADMINISTRATION
    
    10.1 Registration

Classification of Vehicles

It is important to know the classification of your vehicle, so that you know whether you are qualified to drive it, where it has to be registered, the type of insurance required, and the correct road tax.

Automobiles

An automobile is a motorised vehicle weighing more than 550kg, constructed to have a top speed of more than 25km/h and having at least four wheels.  Under the Portuguese Highway Code, automobiles are first classified by size – vehicle weight or passenger carrying capacity:

• Light - gross weight of up to 3,500 kg AND not more than a total of nine seats

• Heavy - gross weight of more than 3,500 kg OR with more than a total of nine seats

Depending on their use, light and heavy automobiles are both sub-divided into:

• Passenger - vehicles for transportation of people
• Cargo - vehicles for transportation of goods
• Mixed - vehicles for transportation, alternately or simultaneously, of people and goods

As a general indication of how this works in practice, it is likely that: 

• Small and medium cars and people carriers will be “Light Passenger”.
• Pick-ups will be “Light Cargo”.
• Crew-cab pick-ups and jeeps will be “Light Mixed”.
• Large cars and 12-seat minibuses will be “Heavy Passenger”.
• Lorries, and probably larger pick-ups, will be “Heavy Cargo”.

Trailers

A trailer is defined as a vehicle that is designed for towing by a motor vehicle, and this therefore includes caravans and boat trailers as well as those designed for cargo carrying.  Sidecars and trailers for motorcycles also come into this category.  Trailers weighing more than 300kg must be registered and have their own registration plate and insurance.  Registration is not required for trailers weighing less than 300kg. 

If the trailer has a gross weight between 750 kg and 3,500 kg, it will also have to undergo a compulsory periodic inspection one year after the date of first enrolment and annually thereafter.

Semi-trailers are vehicles that are designed for towing by a motor vehicle but whose front rests on the towing vehicle which supports the trailer's weight.  Special rules apply to semi-trailers.

Motorcycles, Tricycles, Quads and Mopeds

Motorcycles, tricycles and mopeds are two- or three-wheel vehicles with engine size greater than 50cc or are designed to cruise at 45km/h or more. Four-wheel vehicles, like quads, weighing less than 550kg and with the same specifications are classed as motorcycles.

Motorised bicycles, motorised scooters, as well as self-balancing and self-propelled electric motorised circulation devices or other similar motorised means of circulation are considered to be bicycles.

Tractors and Industrial Vehicles

There is a separate classification for tractors and other special vehicles for industrial, forest or agricultural use. Mandatory installation and use of protection arches in slow vehicles (tractors, agricultural or forestry and industrial machines) provided they are approved with this structure, has been introduced in the Código da Estrada 2021. As well as the use of the belt and other safety devices with which the vehicles are equipped, including "special warning lights" (rotating yellow). 

Bicycles

• Bicycles may circulate on verges outside the situations provided for, as long as they do not endanger or disturb the pedestrians.

• When a motor vehicle overtakes a bicycle, it must keep a minimum lateral distance of 1.5 m from it, to avoid accidents, and the motor vehicle must occupy the lane adjacent to that in which the bicycle is traveling.

• Cyclists must be given priority when crossing the road at the crossings marked for them, and they may not cross without first ensuring that they can do so without risk of accident.

• Bicycles may ride side by side on a road, except on roads with reduced visibility or whenever there is heavy traffic.

• Children up to 10 years of age may ride bicycles on sidewalks, as long as they do not endanger or disturb pedestrians.

Registration Process

All motor vehicles - and trailers over 300kg gross weight - are subject to registration, a process designed to ensure that the authorities and owners can identify them. Vehicles are registered with the IMT (the vehicle registration authorities) in your region.  Registration is normally done by the agency selling a new vehicle or whoever imports a used vehicle.  After registration you will be issued with a registration document/card for the vehicle called “Documento Único de Automóvel/Certificado de Matrícula”.  This document is the vehicles ID and must be carried at all times when driving. If it is lost, a duplicate must be obtained.

If you buy a used car, you can register the change the ownership registration at the local Conservatória do Registo Automóvel.

Registration Document and Number Plates

For each registered vehicle there must be an up-to-date registration document “Documento Único de Automóvel/Certificado de Matrícula” issued by the proper authorities and it must carry the appropriate number plates.  If the registration document becomes illegible you must request a duplicate. You should never stamp or write anything on your registration document, only the proper authorities are allowed to do so. Number plates must be in accordance with standard specifications.  Most garages can provide approved plates. 

     10.2 Road Tax

Once the vehicle is registered, road tax is payable. The amount of tax varies according to the cubic capacity of the engine and CO2 emission, as well as the age of the car.  afpop provides information about these rates in the Information Bulletin M03 Car Tax for Members. 

The tax for passenger cars, motorcycles and mixed and commercial vehicles is called IUC – Imposto Único de Circulação. The payment of this tax can also be done via internet at https://www.portaldasfinancas.gov.pt and in order to do this you will need to request a password (Registar-se) on the same site. Only after you have this password (Senha) you will be able to enter your private file and pay your tax. 

Passenger Cars and Motorcycles

Road tax is payable at the local finance department – Repartição de Finanças, at the multibanco machine or via internet banking. If you opt to go to the Finanças in person, you might need to make an appointment first and you should bring your NIF (Portuguese Fiscal Number), ID and your Documento Único de Automóvel/Certificado de Matrícula.  

Furthermore, you can also set up a Direct Debit for this yearly payment on the site. For information about payments online or setting up a Direct Debit, please check the Factsheet FS11 Finanças payments by Direct Debit on the afpop website afpop.com.

After paying the appropriate amount (cash, cheque or multibanco), you will be given a receipt. Keeping the receipt in the car is a good idea.  

Mixed and Commercial Vehicles

As for passenger vehicles, road tax for a mixed or cargo vehicle is paid also once per year.  It is payable for the whole tax year.

     10.3 Vehicle Inspection

All vehicles over a certain age are required to undertake a roadworthiness test (Inspeção Periódica Obrigatório, IPO). Vehicles requiring a roadworthiness test must carry a valid test certificate when driven on public roads.  This is described below.  The only exception is for veteran cars, which instead should carry a certificate proving it to be a veteran car.  Some testing stations can also inspect vehicles not registered in Portugal.

When to have your Vehicle Tested

The date of the first test and the frequency of subsequent tests depends on the type of vehicle.  The type of vehicle is specified in the “Documento Único de Automóvel/Certificado de Matrícula”. If it is a light passenger vehicle, the “Documento Único de Automóvel/Certificado de Matrícula” will show it registered as a veiculo ligeiro de passageiros.  Passenger cars should be tested when they become 4‑years old and are then tested every two years until they are 8-years old.  From then onwards they are tested annually.

Other light vehicles such as pickups, mixed passenger/cargo and special vehicles (ligeiros de mercadorias, ligeiros mistos, ligeiros especiais) are first tested when they reach 2-years old and then annually.  Heavy vehicles and trailers are tested annually, after eight years they are tested every six-months.

The vehicle can be presented for test up to the date of registration or in the preceding 3 months, unless the existing certificate specifies the next date of test.  Authorised testing centres carry out the test.

Inspection Certificates

When a vehicle passes the inspection, the test centre will issue a green certificate (Ficha de Inspeção). The certificate should be carried with the other documents in the vehicle.

Vehicles with only minor deficiencies (maximum of 7) that need repairs before the next inspection date will be issued with a certificate but if stopped by the authorities can be fined if the issues are not fixed.  If the car fails the test, the owner will be issued with a red provisional certificate.  There are two degrees of deficiencies.  For second-degree repairs, a maximum of 30 days is given to complete all necessary repairs.  For third-degree repairs, the vehicles may not be driven from the inspection centre. They must be towed to a garage until repairs have been completed.  Should a further test be required this must be undertaken and the test date will be indicated on the certificate issued. 

Should you lose the test certificate then the test centre, which carried out the last test, will issue a substitute on receipt of a written request.  The Portuguese Veteran Car Club (Clube Português de Automóveis Antigos) issues veteran car certificates.

What is Inspected?

The tests carried out during the inspection assess the security of the vehicle to ensure that it is in a good enough condition to circulate on the public road.  The inspection starts by confirming the vehicle identity (model, registration number, motor and chassis numbers, and tyre sizes). The series of tests carried out are included in the afpop Information Bulletin M06 Road Worthiness. 

Where to Carry Out the Test

Officially approved independent testing centres carry out the roadworthiness inspections.  You can use any test centre.  They are indicated by road signs marked "Centro de Inspeção Técnica de Veículos - IPO" and are listed in the yellow pages under "Automóveis - Inspeção" and on the IMT website you can download a PDF with authorised test centres. Tests can be booked in advance, but centres will accept casual visitors.

Preparing for the Inspection

The test centre will need to see the vehicle documents (Livrete and Título de Registo de Propriedade or Documento Único de Automóvel/Certificado de Matrícula). They will also need your tax registration number (NIF – Número de Identificação Fiscal).  If the vehicle is in good condition, the only preparation needed may be a good clean to make the inspection easier to do and to allow the inspectors to confirm the identification numbers easily.  Older vehicles may need more preparation.  Many garages will prepare vehicles for the inspection and even deliver and collect them from the test centre.  This can be a convenient time for the annual service.

     10.4 Authorisation to Drive

An owner may allow their car to be driven by another person providing that the car documents are with the vehicle and the driver also has their own identification documents and valid driving licence.  However, when a Portuguese registered car is being driven by anyone other than the owner or their spouse it is advisable to carry a declaration in Portuguese allowing the person to drive, especially if the driver does not speak Portuguese.  The declaration should be typed or written out in block capitals and a photocopy of the car owner's identification document (ID card, Residência or Passport) attached.

The Permission to Drive document in Information Bulletin M01 can be downloaded from the afpop website afpop.com.

      10.5 Driving an EU Registered Vehicle

Permanent Importation

The easiest way of acquiring a vehicle with valid Portuguese registration documents is to purchase a new vehicle from an authorised agent who will register the vehicle for you.  This has the added advantage of having agents close by to provide service, guarantees and spare parts.  However, importation is an option and there can be tax advantages for new residents who import a vehicle they have owned for more than six months.

A number of organisations will undertake the registration of vehicles.  These include the Portuguese Automobile Club (Automóvel Clube de Portugal, ACP), customs agents and other agencies providing services for expatriates.  For a new resident, the use of one of these agents simplifies the process.  You can search online for a list of agents under “Agências de Documentação” or “Despachantes oficiais” and of driving schools under “Escolas de Condução” or on the connect.afpop.com website.

Vehicle Tax (Imposto Sobre Veiculos, ISV)

The vehicle tax (ISV) is a registration tax that is paid only once when the vehicle is first registered in Portugal, whether new or used.

The ISV calculation is based on two key factors: the engine's cylinder capacity and the CO2 emissions (environmental component) of the vehicle. A vehicle is considered used whenever it has more than 6,000 km and is more than 6 months old (in the country of origin) - if only one of these criteria is met, the vehicle is considered new. 

Individuals who are moving to Portugal and who have resided in another country, for at least 6 months prior to their arrival in Portugal, and who can provide proof of this (utility bills), may be eligible for exemption from ISV (import tax). Severely disabled people may also be eligible whether they are moving to Portugal or already living here.

Exemption must be requested and completed within one year from the date of your cancelation of residency document.

Once you start the process at the Customs, they provide a receipt that permits the vehicle to be driven in Portugal for the period indicated on the receipt.  This period is renewable until the importation process is complete. Exemption from vehicle tax can only be claimed once in any 10 years.

When importing a vehicle from a non-EU country, you are also charged IVA and customs taxes (Taxa Aduaneira).

More information you will find in the afpop Bulletin M04 about Car Importation.

     10.6 Purchasing a Vehicle

Buying a car in Portugal is a lot easier process than importing one. 

New Car from a Dealer

A dealer with a new vehicle in stock should be able to put you on the road within 1-2 days.  They should provide the necessary documentation (temporary documents substituting the “Documento Único de Automóvel/Certificado de Matrícula”), their sales receipt, and the manufacturer's guarantee.  You will also need compulsory motor insurance. The dealer will normally arrange for issue of the official documents (Documento Único de Automóvel/Certificado de Matrícula), which should be sent to you within the validity of your temporary documents.

Used Vehicles

The minimum documentation required for sale of a used vehicle is the Livrete, Título de Registo de Propriedade or “Documento Único de Automóvel/Certificado de Matrícula”, and a completed form for registration of the change of ownership (Requerimento - Declaração para Registo de Propriedade/Contrato Verbal de Compra e Venda).  The local registry office (Conservatória do Registo Automóvel) provides this form.  Other documents worth consulting are the Road Worthiness Inspection Certificate (Ficha de Inspeção) and the service record (Livro de Revisões/Manutenção).  A formal receipt of sale, giving the details of the car, the seller and the buyer with annexed photocopies of the Livrete and Título de Registo de Propriedade, or “Documento Único de Automóvel/Certificado de Matrícula”, is also advisable, as is a written sales contract to clarify the terms of sale.  Your lawyer could draw up a simple contract for you.

The form to register change of ownership (Requerimento - Contrato Verbal de Compra e Venda, literally verbal contract for sale and purchase) needs to be completed and signed by both the buyer and the seller. It identifies the vehicle, the previous owner, the new owner, and whether there are any reservations on the transfer of ownership (outstanding payments or partial ownership).  The signatures do not need to be notarised if both buyer's and seller's identification are shown when the form is deposited at the civil registry, this should be a passport or Identity Card. Legally the new purchaser is responsible for registering the change of ownership within 60 days of the sale. However, if this is not done the seller remains the registered owner and may be liable for accident damage or traffic fines incurred by the new owner.  It is therefore advisable for both the seller and buyer to register the change of ownership at the time of sale.  This can be done at the same time as exchange of payment for the keys and documentation.  The buyer will need his or her own vehicle insurance before driving. The registration can also be done online on the website https://www.automovelonline.mj.pt/ but currently only if one of the parties is in possession of a digital Portuguese Cartão Cidadão.

More information can be found in Information Bulletin M05 Buying a Car on the afpop website afpop.com.

     10.7 Fuel

Fuel stations are usually open from 07h00 until 22h00 or midnight, but some are open 24 hours.  Major credit cards are usually accepted but can entail a small surcharge. Multibanco cards are generally accepted, as are some foreign bank debit cards.

It's illegal to carry containers of spare fuel. 

LPG powered cars are not permitted in many underground car parks.

     10.8 Charging Electric Cars

Charging points in Portugal can be found on the following website: https://www.mobie.pt/en/mobienetwork/finding-charging-points

     10.9 Insurance

Portuguese insurance companies automatically issue an International Motor Insurance Card (Certificado Internacional de Seguro Automóvel) with the receipt of payment of motor insurance. 

Third Party Liability Insurance

All private vehicles are required to be covered by third party (contra terceiros) compulsory insurance (Seguro de Responsabilidade Civil) and anyone driving in Portugal must carry a valid International Motor Insurance Card (Certificado Internacional de Seguro Automóvel).

The legal minimum liability cover is €7.290.000 (€6.070.000 for personal injury and €1.220.000 for material damage) and the maximum is €50.000.000. Third Party Liability Insurance covers the owner of the vehicle against damage caused to others. It does not cover damage to the policyholder’s vehicle and afpop recommends car owners extend their cover to include loss due to fire or theft. The additional premium is small.

In Portugal it is the vehicle that is covered, not the driver as is the case in some other countries, the premium payable is dependent on the engine capacity of the vehicle and its gross weight. 

Own Damage Cover

Cover for damage to the policyholder’s car caused by the driver (either the owner or an approved driver) can be arranged at additional cost, which can be quite substantial. Owners of new or reasonably new cars should consider this addition as the cost of repairs to a seriously damaged vehicle could far outweigh the extra policy cost. As the value of the vehicle decreases however, many owners are prepared to accept the cost of repairs or even write-off in return for a substantially reduced premium. An important consideration when deciding whether or not to take out own damage cover, is the no-claim bonus entitlement of the owner. The maximum bonus/discount offered in Portugal is/could be around 60 per cent but the level a new client receives is dependent on the no-claims certificate he/she is able to provide.

Personal Accident

In the case of death or injury resulting from an accident caused by a third party, damages may be claimed from the third party’s insurer. However, if the accident is the fault of the insured party, no payment will be received unless a Personal Accident extension to the basic policy has been arranged. The driver will only be covered for personal injuries if the vehicle is insured with occupants’ cover.

International Motor Insurance Card (previously known as a green card) 

All insurers must provide an International Motor Insurance Card. They are accepted as proof of insurance for the period stated and in the countries designated. It is standard practice for Portuguese insurers to provide an International Motor Insurance Card recognised in other European countries.  The countries included are indicated on the card. For some countries, such as Spain, this will also include cover for payment of a bond in case of accident. For non-Portuguese registered and insured cars, the International Motor Insurance Card must be valid for Portugal.

11. DRIVING LICENCES

    11.1 Categories

Mopeds and Equivalent

Driving permits are required for mopeds and equivalent vehicles with engine capacity under 125cc; the minimum age is 16 years and under 18 years a written authorisation from a parent is required (or 14 years in the case of a two-wheel moped with an internal combustion engine of a cylinder capacity not exceeding 50 cm3, with a maximum speed of 45 km/h). If you already have a car driving license (category B), you do not need to take an exam to drive mopeds.

Class A - Motorcycles

To obtain this license, you must enroll in a driving school and pass the relevant driving test, which consists of a theoretical test and a practical test. Theoretical training can start six-months before reaching the minimum age.  Drivers with a licence for Class A may also drive mopeds. 

*Under certain conditions and with restrictions: with parental consent, medical examination and having completed 7^th year in school.

These ages can be different with previous experience.

Holders of a category B driving licence are also considered to be qualified to drive motorcycles with an engine capacity of up to 125 cm3, provided they are 25 years of age or over.

Class B - Light Vehicle

Class B includes light vehicles to which a trailer of up to 750kg gross weight can be hitched.  It also includes light vehicles and trailer with a gross weight of more than 750kg, but only if the combined gross weight is no more than 3500kg, and the gross weight of the trailer does not exceed that of the car.  There is a separate category (B+E) for light vehicles and trailer whose combined gross weight exceeds 3500kg.  Drivers licensed for Class B vehicles may also drive three-wheeled vehicles classed as mopeds or motorcycles and certain agricultural vehicles. Unlike the UK the minimum age to drive a car is 18 years.  Holders of a licence to drive a car are not automatically licensed to drive a motorcycle, but depending on their age and engine capacity, might have to do a test. 

Heavy Duty Vehicles

Licences for heavy vehicles require special training and specific tests depending on the category of vehicle.  The main categories are:

• C - Heavy Cargo Vehicle, to which a trailer of up to 750kg gross weight can be hitched

• C+E - Heavy Cargo Vehicle and a trailer with a gross weight of more than 750kg

• D - Heavy Passenger Vehicle to which a trailer of up to 750kg gross weight can be hitched

• D+E - Heavy Passenger Vehicle and a trailer with a gross weight of more than 750kg

  
  
       11.2 Non-Portuguese Licences

It is legally acceptable to drive in Portugal with a licence issued by any other EU member state.  So, if in Portugal on holiday or for a series of short visits, there is no problem with a non-resident showing the police an EU passport and an EU driving licence, particularly if driving an EU registered car or a hire car.  Visitors with licences from other countries should check whether their licence is valid and, ideally, also carry a valid international driving licence if visiting Portugal on holidays.

EU/UK Licences

If you are an EU/UK driving licence holder, you are required to, when you first become a resident in Portugal, register your driving licence with the Portuguese authorities within 60 days of becoming resident, the 60-day period begins from the issue date of the residency. 

The procedure to register yourself as a driver in Portugal is simple and can be done by visiting an IMT office (appointment might be necessary). The registration is valid until the expiry of your EU driving licence.

If your EU/UK driving licence expires and you are still a resident in Portugal, you will have to renew it in Portugal, by exchanging your driving licence for a European one issued in Portugal.

European driving licence holders whose licence does not have a validity date and who are residents in Portugal, must replace their driving licence for a Portuguese one within two years of becoming a resident in Portugal.  

More information, you can find in the afpop Information Bulletin P04 on the afpop.com website.

Non-EU Licences

The exchange of a driving licence from non-EU countries for a Portuguese one must be done within 90 days of the driver becoming a resident in Portugal. This applies to countries with a bilateral agreement with Portugal.

Please note that drivers holding a driving licence from one of those countries may drive in Portugal for 185 days, as long as they are not residents. Once they become residents the driving licence must be replaced by a Portuguese one.

Failing to exchange your driving licence within the 90 days as referred will mean the driver can be fined by the traffic police. Failing to exchange the driving licence within 2 years of becoming a resident means the driver will have to go through and pass a driving test in Portugal in order to obtain a Portuguese driving licence.

If you do not habitually reside in Portugal, you can drive in Portugal with: 

• A licence issued by a foreign state that the Portuguese state recognises by convention or international treaty.

• A licence issued by a foreign state that gives equal recognition to the validity of Portuguese licences.

• An international driving licence.

More information you can find in the afpop Information Bulletin P04 Driving Licence.

International Driving Licences 

An International Driving licence is available from the ACP (Automóvel Clube de Portugal) and IMT and is valid to drive in the country you are visiting (other than the one you live in). 

Use of Spectacles etc.

If your driving licence indicates that you need to wear glasses, prosthesis or other apparatus, you must always use them when driving. 

12. USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS

afpop (during office hours)                    (+ 351) 282 458 509 Landline

                                                                (+ 351) 938 252 100 Mobile

                                                                E-mail: info@afpop.com    

MEDAL Portimão (during office hours) (+ 351) 282 430 800

MEDAL Almancil                                    (+ 351) 289 351 000 

                                                                E-mail: info@medal.pt

MEDAL Target Estoril                             (+ 351) 210 523 130

                                                                E-mail: info@medaltarget.pt  

BREAKDOWN SERVICE                         Call to the number shown on the International Motor Insurance Card for the breakdown service  

Emergency, national number                112

BRISA motorway breakdown service     (+ 351) 210 730 300 

ACP, Automóvel Clube de Portugal        (+ 351) 215 915 915

Clube Port. de Automóveis Antigos   (+ 351) 214 410 633 (Lisbon) 

                                                                (+ 351) 225 377 699 (Porto)

Via Verde                                                (+ 351) 210 730 300            

IMT Information Line                              (+ 351) 210 488 488 

Review and Revision: afpop Membership Services

Project Supervisor: Michael Reeve

Cover Photograph: pixabay.com/users/darek19751-22835159 

Principal Sources:  Código da Estrada, DL 80/2016, DL No. 102-B/2020 and other legislation up to May 2025. 

Published by: afpop, Associação de Proprietários Estrangeiros em Portugal NIPC PT – 502 063 564

Apartado 728, 8501-917 Portimão Portugal

Email: info@afpop.com Website: afpop.com

In association with MEDAL, Lda. Insurance Brokers