Learning to drive with a tutor? New law brings changes

The President of the Republic has officially signed into law the new legislation that allows driving licence candidates to learn how to drive with a tutor, as an alternative to part of the traditional practical lessons at driving schools.

The measure is part of the new revision of the Legal Framework for Driving Instruction and could significantly change the way Portuguese drivers obtain their licences in the coming years.

What actually changes?

As previously explained, candidates applying for a Category B driving licence will be allowed to practice driving outside traditional driving schools while accompanied by a private tutor.

In practice, that tutor may be:

• parents

• grandparents

• relatives

• or other experienced drivers

According to the approved legislation, the tutor must have held a driving licence for at least 10 years. In the case of foreign licences recognized in Portugal, a minimum of 5 years of national recognition will be required.

Will driving schools still be mandatory?

Yes.

Despite this new possibility, driving schools are not disappearing. Training with certified instructors will continue to exist and will still play a central role in preparing and evaluating students before the driving test.

The goal of the new law is mainly to allow more practice and real-world driving experience.

There are specific rules

Accompanied driving will still be subject to several limitations and requirements.

Among the main known rules are:

• ban on driving on highways

• vehicle identification with a special learner sticker

• requirement for specific insurance

• prohibition on carrying passengers other than the tutor

In addition, the tutor may be held responsible for infractions committed during the learning process.

A measure that continues to divide opinions

The new law continues to generate debate within the automotive sector and among driving schools.

While the Government argues that this model brings Portugal closer to systems already used in other European countries and increases students’ practical experience, some associations remain concerned about possible impacts on road safety and the quality of driver training.

What happens next?

With the legislation now signed by the President of the Republic, the next step is its official publication in the Portuguese Official Gazette and the implementation of the new rules.

In other words, accompanied driving with a tutor has not officially started in Portugal yet, but it is now much closer to becoming a reality.

Sources: Eco, Pplware, Jornal de Negócios