How to Do a TVDE Course in Portugal: Complete Guide 2025

Learn how to do the TVDE course in Portugal in 2025. Step-by-step guide for expats and drivers who want to work with Uber, Bolt, or Free Now.

What Is TVDE in Portugal?

TVDE stands for Transporte em Veículo Descaracterizado a partir de Plataforma Eletrónica, the required license for drivers working with platforms like Uber, Bolt, and Free Now in Portugal.

Who Can Apply for TVDE?

To undertake the TVDE course, you must:

• Be at least 21 years old

• Hold a valid Category B driving license for over 3 years

• Have a clean criminal record

• Pass a medical and psychotechnical assessment

• Eventually, obtain a Group II endorsement on your license

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Register at a Certified Training Provider

Below are reputable, IMT-certified TVDE training centers in Portugal with their websites:

• Ecodrive – Offers blended training (theory online + in-person practice), 50-hour curriculum covering communication, legal norms, driving techniques, emergencies, and vehicle operation. ecodrive.pt

• Academia do Profissional – TVDE initial and renewal courses; 50 hours for initial, 8 hours for renewal; flexible online and presencial academiadoprofissional.com

• Bolt Academy – Offers training including theory and practical components; available in Lisbon, Porto, Viseu, Madeira, and the Azores; rates from approximately €175 bolt.eu

• Formação Global – Accredited by IMT and DGERT, offers 50-hour initial and 8-hour renewal courses in Cascais, Guarda, and Faro; includes interview opportunities with TVDE operators. formacaoglobal.pt

• Escola de Condução Paço D’Arcos – The only school between Cascais and Oeiras certified by IMT to deliver TVDE training; 50-hour initial course. ecpa.pt

• ACP Driving School (Automóvel Clube de Portugal) – Offers a 9-hour renewal course: 4.5 hours online and 4.5 hours in-person, available in Lisbon and Porto. acp.pt

• Onroad Formação – Fully structured 50-hour initial TVDE course combining synchronous and asynchronous online learning with practical sessions. onroad.pt

2. Complete the Training (50 Hours)

Core modules typically include:

• Communication & interpersonal skills

• Legal regulations

• Advanced driving techniques

• Activity regulations

• Emergency and first aid

• Individual vehicle operation

Courses last approximately 50 hours, blending online and in-person delivery with practical sessions.

3. Pass the Final Assessment

After completing your course, IMT now requires a knowledge test (typically 30 questions; must get ~90% correct) at their facilities, following the new 2024 law.

4. Obtain Your CMTVDE (Driver Certificate) from IMT

Submit to IMT:

• TVDE course certificate

• Valid Category B license with Group II endorsement

• Criminal record certificate

• Medical and psychotechnical exam results

Once approved, you’ll receive the TVDE Driver Certificate (valid for 5 years). Renewal requires an 8-hour refresher course.

Estimated Timeline

Step	Duration Est.
Course (50 hours)	2–3 weeks
IMT assessment + certificate	2–6 weeks
Total from start to driving	1–2 months

Tips for Smooth Progress

• Contact training centers early to check language support or availability.

• Consider Bolt Academy if you plan to join Bolt’s fleet—it streamlines the process.

• If located in Cascais or Oeiras, Paço D’Arcos offers a convenient local option

• To renew existing certification, ACP and Formação Global offer fast renewal courses.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a licensed TVDE driver in Portugal in 2025 involves taking a certified course at an accredited training center, succeeding in the IMT assessment, and applying for your TVDE Driver Certificate. With schools like Ecodrive, Bolt Academy, Formação Global, and Paço D’Arcos, you have reliable options to start your journey efficiently.