The TVDE driver certificate: requirements and how to get it
Published 1 October 2026 · Ler em português
Português · English · हिन्दी · नेपाली · বাংলা · اردو
There are no paid trips without a TVDE driver certificate. The CMTVDE is the document the IMT issues to anyone who meets the legal requirements, and it is the first thing to sort out, before choosing a fleet or registering at the tax office.
The requirements, one by one
- Minimum age of 21.
- A category B driving licence held for more than 3 years, with a group 2 endorsement.
- A 50-hour training course at a training entity recognised by the IMT. The full list of entities is here, searchable by city.
- A criminal record certificate, requested for the right purpose, as explained below.
- Good standing (idoneidade).
- A written contract with the TVDE operator you will work with.
The detail that costs people weeks: the criminal record certificate
The certificate has to be requested for the purpose "profissão ou atividade sem lei especial", naming the role "motorista de TVDE" and including the mention that it involves regular contact with minors, under Lei n.º 113/2009. Requested for the wrong purpose, it is not accepted and the process starts again.
Cost and duration
The initial course is 50 hours, usually spread over one to three weeks, and centres publish prices between 160 and 250 euros, with the exam sometimes charged separately. Real prices are here.
Validity
The certificate is valid for 5 years and renews for equal periods, with an 8-hour refresher course. How to renew, and what happens if you let it lapse.
After the certificate
The certificate opens the door. Next comes choosing how you will work (fleet, your own operator, or an employment contract) and, if self-employed, registering at the tax office.
Quick questions
What is the minimum age to be a TVDE driver?
21 years old.
How long must I have held my licence?
More than 3 years, category B, with a group 2 endorsement.
How long is the certificate valid?
5 years, renewable for equal periods through an 8-hour refresher course.
An accountant for a self-employed driver typically costs between 50 and 150 euros a month. Zeelity does the part that eats your time: it prepares every receipt with the right figures, files the quarterly declarations and watches the deadlines before they arrive, with a certified accountant behind it.
From 16.90 euros a month. The app is available for Android.
This guide is informational and does not replace personalised advice. Legal requirements can change, so always confirm with the IMT.