Exchanging a Brazilian driving licence in Portugal, step by step

Anyone who becomes resident in Portugal with a Brazilian driving licence (CNH) needs to know the rules on recognition and exchange. In 2026 these rules changed: a new agreement between the two countries, approved in Portugal by Decree 4/2026 of 9 February, establishes mutual recognition and the conditions for exchanging valid, full licences.

In this guide, we explain when you can still drive on your Brazilian licence, when the exchange becomes mandatory and how to apply at the Institute for Mobility and Transport (IMT).

Can I drive in Portugal on a Brazilian licence?

Yes, but the conditions depend on whether you are resident:

• Tourists and newcomers: a valid Brazilian licence allows you to drive for up to 185 days after entering Portugal.
• Residents: an immediate exchange is not required as long as the licence is valid, no more than 15 years have passed since issue or last renewal, the driver meets the minimum age and is under 60.

The digital Brazilian licence is also recognised. An expired licence, however, does not allow you to drive in Portugal.

When is the exchange mandatory, and when is it advisable?

Which documents are needed for the exchange?

• a valid identity document;
• a Portuguese residence permit;
• a tax number (NIF);
• the original Brazilian licence;
• an electronic medical certificate, issued by a doctor after an in-person exam and sent directly to IMT;
• a psychological assessment certificate, where required for the category.

As a rule, no theory or practical tests are required. IMT may, depending on the case, request additional documents.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check your situation: licence validity, date of issue or last renewal and the categories you hold.
2. Get the electronic medical certificate from a doctor, who sends it to IMT.
3. Apply online through the IMT services, with scanned documents, and pay the fee shown on the portal.
4. Keep the provisional permit: it lets you drive until you receive the Portuguese licence.
5. Hand in the Brazilian licence if requested, following IMT's instructions.

What are the most common mistakes?

• letting the licence expire before applying for the exchange;
• name discrepancies between the licence, passport and residence permit;
• applying before the medical certificate has been sent to IMT;
• assuming the Brazilian licence is valid in other European countries, when automatic recognition applies only in Portugal.

If you are still dealing with your residence permit, it is worth organising the documents together: see also what to do when your AIMA application is stalled. As rules and fees may be updated, check the requirements in force with IMT when you apply.

This article is for information only and does not replace a legal consultation.