Portuguese Highway Code — Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about the Portuguese Highway Code: traffic rules, road signs, speed limits, parking, and how to prepare for the IMT exam.
What is the Highway Code?
The Highway Code is the legal document that establishes traffic and road safety rules in Portugal. It applies to all road users — drivers, pedestrians, passengers, and cyclists — and defines rights, duties, and prohibitions to ensure traffic flow and safety. It was created in 1998 and has been updated regularly to keep up with technological and social changes.
For anyone seeking a Category B driving licence, knowledge of the Highway Code is mandatory. The IMT theory test assesses precisely this knowledge through 30 multiple-choice questions on the most relevant topics of the code.
Main topics of the Highway Code
The IMT exam covers all these topics. Click on one to access practical exercises or the detailed guide.
Road Signs
Warning, prohibitory, mandatory, informational, and priority signs. The most visual topic and one of the most tested in the exam.
Traffic Rules
Right-of-way, intersections, roundabouts, overtaking, and behavior on different road types.
Speed Limits
Limits inside and outside built-up areas, mandatory minimum speeds, and recommended speeds.
Parking and Stopping
Where you can and cannot stop, no-parking signs, and parking rules.
Road Safety
Safety distances, seat belts, lighting, and hazard signaling.
Vehicle Mechanics
Braking, tires, fluids, breakdown signs, and preventive maintenance.
What is the IMT theory test like?
Exam format
The official Category B theory test consists of 30 multiple-choice questions, each with 5 answer options. The candidate has 30 minutes to complete the test and can make a maximum of 3 mistakes (90% correct).
- 30 multiple-choice questions
- 30 minutes long
- Maximum of 3 mistakes allowed
- Taken on a computer at an IMT exam center
How to book the exam
The theory test is booked through the driving school where you are enrolled. The school manages the process with the IMT and informs you of the date, time, and location of the exam. It is not possible to book directly with the IMT without going through a driving school.
- Enroll in a driving school
- Complete the mandatory theory classes
- The school schedules the exam with the IMT
- Show up at the exam center on the scheduled date
Passa Código in Numbers
94%
Pass rate
12,000+
Learners
4.8/5
Rating
Frequently asked questions about the Highway Code
What is the Portuguese Highway Code?
The Portuguese Highway Code is the set of rules and regulations governing vehicle and pedestrian traffic in Portugal. It was created to ensure the safety of all road users and is mandatory for anyone seeking a driving licence.
Is the Highway Code up to date?
Yes, the Portuguese Highway Code undergoes periodic revisions. Passa Código keeps its questions and content updated according to the latest legislation.
What are the main topics?
Road signs, priority and traffic rules, speed limits, parking regulations, road safety, basic vehicle mechanics, and driver duties.
How do I study for the exam?
The best way is to combine reading the rules with practicing questions. Do chapter exercises and use the mock exam to test your knowledge under real IMT exam conditions.
Is the theory test difficult?
It is not difficult if you study in advance and practice regularly. Most candidates who use Passa Código pass on the first try, especially those who take several mock exams.
Where can I consult the Highway Code?
The complete legal text can be consulted in the Diário da República Electrónico. Passa Código offers a didactic and structured version with simple explanations and practice questions.
Ready for your theory test?
Choose between chapter exercises, a full mock exam, or a road signs quiz. All free, no registration required.