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Vehicle registration renewal in Portugal

Written from published rules on 27 August 2026. Not monitored for changes since. A starting point, not official advice — confirm anything that matters with Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (IMT).

Renewing a vehicle registration in Portugal typically involves replacing the Documento Único Automóvel (DUA) if there are changes to the vehicle's ownership, characteristics, or if the document is lost, stolen, or damaged, rather than a periodic renewal.

Your timing

There is no standard periodic renewal for a vehicle registration in Portugal. Replacements due to changes or loss should be handled promptly to ensure legal compliance for vehicle operation and ownership transfer.

Start 15 days ahead

This is an estimated processing time for issuing a new DUA after an application is submitted, though actual times may vary.

The process

  1. 1Identify the reason for needing a new Documento Único Automóvel (DUA) – e.g., change of ownership, change of vehicle characteristics, loss, theft, or damage.
  2. 2Gather the necessary documentation specific to the reason for the request (e.g., identity document, proof of address, declaration of loss/theft, vehicle inspection certificate, purchase agreement).
  3. 3Submit the application to an IMT service desk or a 'Loja do Cidadão' that offers IMT services. Some services might also be available online via 'Automóvel Online' for registered users.
  4. 4Pay the applicable fee for the issuance of the new DUA.
  5. 5Await the processing of the request and the issuance of the new DUA, which will be sent to the applicant's registered address.

What to bring

  • Valid identification document (e.g., Citizen Card)
  • Proof of address (can be integrated with Citizen Card)
  • Existing Documento Único Automóvel (DUA), if applicable (e.g., for changes, but not for loss/theft)
  • Form Model 13 (Requerimento de Registo e Emissão de DUA), properly filled out
  • Proof of declaration of loss or theft, if applicable (e.g., police report)
  • Vehicle inspection certificate (Inspeção Periódica Obrigatória - IPO) if required due to vehicle modifications or for certain transfers
  • Proof of ownership transfer (e.g., purchase and sale agreement), if applicable

Who handles it

Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (IMT)

https://www.imt-ip.pt/sites/IMTT/Portugues/PerguntasFrequentes/Paginas/DocumentoUnicoAutomovelDUA.aspx

The fee for issuing a new DUA varies depending on the reason (e.g., change of ownership, duplicate for loss, change of characteristics). Current fees should be confirmed directly with the IMT or at the service counter.

What commonly goes wrong

  • Ensure all forms are correctly filled out, as errors can lead to delays.
  • Verify the specific documents required for the particular reason for requesting a new DUA, as they can differ.
  • Be aware that some services require in-person attendance, while others might have online options for registered users.
  • If the document is lost or stolen, reporting it to the police is often a necessary first step before requesting a duplicate.

Sources

Other documents in Portugal

Vehicle registration renewal in other countries

Often renewed together

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