Portugal Vehicle Registration Process

Portugal Vehicle Registration Process | A-1 Auto Transport

In order to register a four-wheeler in Portugal permanently, you’ll be required to obtain a residency card. It should be noted that you do not need to register an imported vehicle if it will be in the country for less than 180 days, providing it has current enrollment in its country or origin.

To qualify for the 180-day grace period for foreign registration, there are some conditions that must be met. It must only be for private use and the car must be brought into the country by the registered owner.

The information below applies to four-wheelers that will be in the country for more than 180 days or imported permanently.

Required Documents

As with any country in which you register a car, truck, boat, or motorcycle, there are some documents you’ll need to submit as part of the process. Here’s what you’ll need to register a automobile in the area:

• Certificate of Conformity
• Proof of registration (certificate)
• Customs clearance (proof of duties & taxes paid)
• Payment slip
• Roadworthiness certificate (see below)

Roadworthiness Test

Imported four-wheelers must undergo a roadworthiness test in the area, as they would in any other European country. The frequency with which you’ll have to take the roadworthiness test after the initial test will depend on the age of the car. New motorcars are typically tested after four years and then every two years thereafter, with used four-wheelers being tested every two years. After eight years, vehicles are tested annually.

For more information about shipping a car or other four-wheeler, visit our informational page about Portugal! It has information about the cost of shipping a vehicle, the documents you’ll need to have on hand, and what sort of transport options are available!

Residency Card & Enlisting A Foreign Four-Wheeler In The Area

If you plan to register a car in Portugal and use there permanently, you’ll need to apply for a local residency card. Sometimes called a residency permit, this is also required if you plan to stay in the country for more than three months, with or without a vehicle. The following documents are needed to apply for a residency card:

• Passport & copy (with color photos)
• Proof of income
• Evidence of local residency
• Proof of health insurance
• Application form & filing fee

Resources

Test Center Services (Portuguese) - Information about local auto testing centers, as well as resources for other transport and road-related services in the area.

Portugal Traffic Signs (PDF) - If you’ll be driving in the country, make sure you’re familiar with local laws and signage, some of which may be different from what you’re used to.

Considering shipping a vehicle to the area? Call us today at the number at the top of the page to find out how we can help! We offer FREE cost estimates to all parties, no obligation required! Whether you’re shipping a car, boat, truck, motorcycle, or van, we can provide a reliable shipping option that fits your budget.