Tax
While the IPO is due by the exact date in your documents, the annual car tax can be paid by the end of the month in which the inspection is due (e.g. your inspection by 15th, pay tax by 30th). You will not get a reminder from Financas to pay this tax unless you forget, and then it comes with a fine. So, best to keep it in mind along with the inspection.
MOT or IPO (Inspeção Periódica Obrigatória) on Portuguese registered cars
When? Latest on the date shown on the green square in your windscreen and in the green sheet of the previous inspection. You can also do the inspection up to 3 months before this date.
Cars up to 8 years old have to be inspected every 2 years, after than annually.
Where? Controlauto in Castelo Branco
Zona Industrial, the street going from Auchan filling station to the T-junction where left turn takes you to the center of town.
How? Book an appointment online to avoid waiting time:
https://controlauto.pt/ >> Marcar Inspeção
Choose location, date & time, enter your name, email, telephone number and car registration, click Submeter. You’ll get an email confirming your booking and a reference that allows you to cancel or reschedule the appointment.
The instructions during the inspection are in Portuguese but the inspectors are good at improvised sign language and some speak English.
Or, you can ask your mechanic to take your car through for you.
Cost? The annual inspection for a passenger car (“ligeiros” in Ptg.) is just over 30 euros.
Mechanic
In case you haven’t got him on speed dial yet, Antonio’s phone number is 968 927 912. He’s open Mon – Fri 8-12.30 and 14.00-17.00 and Saturday mornings, last I heard.
Located on the road towards Medelim, on the left before the Carroqueiro turn.
He’s kept our 14 year old car on the road and passing inspection every year for 7 years and we never felt we overpaid, so we’re happy to recommend him. If anyone wishes to recommend other mechanics in the area, please drop me a line.