Hundreds of immigrants, mainly from Asiatic countries, have recently arrived in Madeira to change their driving licences. This is because, unlike on the mainland, the process is quicker and simpler in Madeira. According to Antena 1, on the mainland it takes between 7 and 8 months to exchange a foreign driving licence for a Portuguese one, sometimes longer (this can mean applicants ‘run out of time allowed’ and then have to ‘retake’ their practical driving test. In Madeira, on the other hand, it takes between 6 and 7 weeks, ensuring no drivers get ‘caught out’, and face the prospect of retaking their tests.
Hundreds of immigrants fly to Madeira to exchange driving licences
