Portugal Vehicle Registration Process | A-1 Auto Transport

In order to register a vehicle in Portugal on a permanent basis, 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 registration in its country or origin.

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

The information below applies to vehicles that will be in the country for more than 180 days, or imported on a permanent basis.

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 vehicle in Portugal:

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

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Roadworthiness Test

Imported vehicles must undergo a roadworthiness test in Portugal, 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 vehicle. New vehicles are typically tested after four years and then every two years thereafter, with used vehicles being tested every two years. After eight years, vehicles are tested annually.

For more information about shipping a car or other vehicle, 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 & Registering A Foreign Vehicle In Portugal

If you plan to register a vehicle 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

Portugal Vehicle Registration Resources

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

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 Portugal? 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.