Table of Contents

Obtaining a Road Transport License in Portugal? Portugal Road Transport License Conditions

Introduction

Road transport is a key sector of the Portuguese economy, representing approximately 4% of the country's GDP. To carry out this activity it is necessary to obtain a road transport license in Portugal. This license is issued by the Mobility and Transport Authority (AMT) and is subject to certain conditions. In this article, we are going to look at the requirements for obtaining a road transport license in Portugal.

Conditions for obtaining a road transport license in Portugal

1. Professional capacity

The first condition for obtaining a road transport license in Portugal is to have professional capacity. This means that the applicant must have a thorough knowledge of the road transport sector and the rules that govern it. This professional capacity can be demonstrated in different ways, in particular by obtaining a diploma or certification in the field of road transport, or by relevant professional experience.

2. Professional suitability

In addition to professional capacity, the applicant must also demonstrate professional aptitude. This means that he must be able to effectively manage a road transport company, respecting safety and quality rules. To demonstrate their professional aptitude, the applicant must provide proof of their training and professional experience, as well as references from customers and suppliers.

3. Financial capacity

The third condition for obtaining a road transport license in Portugal is to have sufficient financial capacity. This means that the applicant must be able to finance the road transport company and to meet its financial obligations, such as the payment of wages, taxes and insurance. To demonstrate financial capacity, the applicant must provide evidence of financial resources, such as bank statements and financial statements.

4. Professional suitability of drivers

In addition to the requirements for the applicant, there are also requirements for drivers employed by the road transport company. Drivers must demonstrate their professional ability by obtaining professional driver certification. This certification is issued by the Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) and is subject to strict requirements in terms of training and professional experience.

5. Vehicles that comply with safety standards

Finally, the vehicles used by the road transport company must comply with the safety standards in force. This means that they must be regularly maintained and inspected to ensure their safety and reliability. Vehicles must also be equipped with safety features such as seat belts, anti-lock braking systems and tire pressure monitoring systems.

Portugal road transport license application process

Once the applicant meets all the requirements, they can start the process of applying for a road transport license in Portugal. The application process includes the following steps:

1. License application

The applicant must complete a road transport license application form and submit it to the AMT. The form should include information about the trucking company, such as its business name, address, tax identification number and planned activities.

2. Application assessment

Once the application is submitted, the AMT performs an assessment of the application to ensure that the applicant meets all the required conditions. If the application is accepted, the AMT issues a road transport license to the applicant.

3. License Renewal

The road transport license is valid for a period of five years. At the end of this period, the applicant must renew their license by submitting a new application to the AMT. The renewal process is similar to that of the initial application, but the applicant must provide updated information about the trucking company and its activities.

Additional requirements for international road transport companies

If the road transport company plans to operate abroad, it must also comply with the following additional requirements:

1. Community License

To operate in the European Union, the road transport company must obtain a Community license. This license is issued by the competent authority of the country of origin of the road transport company and is valid in all countries of the European Union.

2. Driver card

Drivers employed by the road transport company must also be in possession of a driver card. This card is issued by IMT and contains information about the driver, such as name, photo and professional qualifications.

3. Tachograph

The vehicles used by the road transport company must be equipped with a tachograph. This device records the driver's driving and rest times, as well as the speed and distance traveled by the vehicle.

Conclusion

Obtaining a road transport license in Portugal is a complex process that requires fulfilling several conditions. Applicants must demonstrate their professional capacity, professional aptitude and financial capacity, as well as ensure that their drivers and vehicles comply with current safety standards. International road transport companies must also comply with additional requirements, such as obtaining a Community license and possessing a driver card. By complying with these conditions, road transport companies can carry out their activity completely legally and contribute to the Portuguese economy.

Table of Contents