The DUA (Documento Único Automóvel) is the vehicle registration document or card that you must keep in your car while driving.
How do You Get the DUA?
You receive the DUA at the end of the import process. After completing customs and IMT registration, you can obtain the DUA at your local registry office (Conservatória). You pay €55 for the card and receive it in the mail within about a week.
After the plates, the IMT registration usually takes several months before you can register at the registry office. In theory, waiting more than 2 months after that may result in a fine. In practice, the authorities are so slow right now that it doesn’t work that way.
Also, when you go to the registry office, be aware that not everyone speaks English.
Can’t Request the Card Yourself?
Usually you request the card yourself. If you can’t, for example because you’re not in Portugal, we can request an express card for you (€135). Just let us know!
