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Q: What is the main restriction for drivers during the probationary period in Portugal?

A lower BAC limit of 0.2 g/l. During the 3-year probationary period, Portuguese drivers must maintain a BAC below 0.2 g/l (compared to 0.5 g/l for experienced drivers). Additionally, novice drivers have reduced speed limits: 90 km/h on motorways (instead of 120) and 70 km/h on rural roads (instead of 90). These restrictions help new drivers build experience safely.

Q: What is the default speed limit in Portuguese urban areas (localidades)?

50 km/h. The default speed limit inside built-up areas (localidades) in Portugal is 50 km/h, unless otherwise posted. Some residential areas may have lower limits of 30 km/h (Zonas 30).

Q: What is the maximum speed limit on Portuguese autoestradas (motorways)?

120 km/h. The maximum speed limit on Portuguese motorways (autoestradas) is 120 km/h. The minimum speed is 50 km/h. These limits apply to passenger cars in normal conditions.

Q: What is the maximum blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for experienced drivers in Portugal?

0.5 g/l. The legal BAC limit for experienced drivers in Portugal is 0.5 g/l of blood. Driving with a BAC between 0.5 and 0.8 g/l is a serious offence; above 0.8 g/l is a very serious offence.

Q: Under the 2025 regulations (Decreto-Lei 26/2025), which e-scooters require mandatory civil liability insurance in Portugal?

E-scooters exceeding 25 kg or capable of more than 25 km/h. Since June 2025, Decreto-Lei 26/2025 requires mandatory civil liability insurance for e-scooters that weigh more than 25 kg or can exceed 25 km/h. Lighter, slower scooters are exempt.

Q: What are the speed limits in Portugal?

Coexistence zones: 20 km/h. Urban areas: 50 km/h. Rural roads: 90 km/h (cars), 70 km/h (with trailer), 80 km/h (trucks). Expressways: 100 km/h (cars), 80 km/h (with trailer), 90 km/h (trucks). Motorways: 120 km/h (cars), 100 km/h (with trailer), 110 km/h (trucks). Minimum motorway speed: 50 km/h. Posted signs always take precedence.

Q: What are the emergency numbers in Portugal?

Portugal's key emergency numbers: 112 — European Emergency Number (police, fire, ambulance). 808 24 24 24 — SNS 24 health helpline (non-emergency medical advice). 117 — Forest fire reporting. 808 201 855 — Transit SOS (road assistance). 144 — INEM medical emergency/ambulance. 112 is available 24/7 and operators speak multiple languages.

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Penha, Faro, Portugal

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Quick Reference

Test Questions

30

Pass Mark

27/30

Minimum Age

18

License Fee

30€ approximately

Source: IMT · Last updated: 2026-03-15

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Emergency Numbers

European Emergency Number112

SNS 24 — Health Helpline808 24 24 24

Forest Fires117

Transit SOS — Road Assistance808 201 855

Speed Limits

Coexistence Zone — Shared with pedestrians

Urban (Localidade) — Within built-up areas

Rural Road — Outside built-up areas

Expressway (Via Reservada) — Dual carriageway, no intersections

Motorway (Autoestrada) — Minimum speed 50 km/h

Road Hazards

Autumn and winter storms bring heavy rain, strong winds, and reduced visibility — particularly along…

Medieval town centres (Lisbon's Alfama, Porto's Ribeira, Evora, Sintra) have extremely narrow cobble…

Lisbon's iconic tram network shares roads with cars in narrow streets. Trams have priority and track…

Porto's steep riverside terrain means sharp inclines, tight hairpin bends, and heavy braking zones —…

FAQ

How much does a driving licence cost in Portugal?

The total cost for a Category B driving licence in Portugal is typically €700-1,200. This includes: driving school package €650-900 (28 theory + 32 practical lessons), medical certificate €20-50, theory test €15 (IMT) to €110 (private centre), practical test €30 (IMT) to €120 (private centre), licence issuance €30, and photos/documents €10-15. Extra lessons cost €12-20 per hour. Lisbon and Porto are generally more expensive than rural areas.

What is the Portuguese theory test format?

The theory test (exame teorico) for Category B consists of 30 multiple-choice questions drawn from an official bank of over 6,000 questions. You have 30 minutes to complete the test and must answer at least 27 questions correctly (90% pass mark). The test is computer-based and administered at IMT offices (€15) or approved private centres (up to €110). Questions cover the Codigo da Estrada, traffic signs, road safety, vehicle mechanics, and first aid.

What is the blood alcohol limit in Portugal?

Portugal has a 0.5 g/L BAC limit for general drivers. Novice drivers (first 3 years with carta provisoria) and professional drivers have a reduced limit of 0.2 g/L. A BAC of 1.2 g/L or above is a criminal offence punishable by up to 1 year imprisonment. Fines for administrative BAC offences range from €250 to €2,500 with possible licence suspension of 1-36 months.

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Emergency Numbers

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