The measures were approved by Parliament’s Committee on Infrastructure, Mobility and Housing as part of a wider revision of the law governing ride-hailing services such as Uber and Bolt. The package must still go to a final vote in the Assembly of the Republic before taking effect.

One of the most significant changes would make knowledge of Portuguese compulsory for TVDE drivers. The proposal responds to repeated complaints from passengers about difficulties communicating with drivers, particularly during journeys involving route changes, safety concerns or emergencies.

The revised rules would also allow electronic platforms to offer an optional video-recording function inside vehicles. Recording would be permitted only for the protection of drivers and passengers, and audio capture would remain prohibited.

Passengers would be entitled to refuse a vehicle using the recording system without facing an additional charge or penalty. Where no alternative vehicle is available, they would still be able to cancel the journey free of charge.

The proposals also include the removal of the current ceiling on dynamic pricing. At present, fares during periods of high demand cannot rise beyond a set limit based on recent average prices. Under the new model, platforms could apply higher surge pricing, provided customers are clearly informed of the fare before confirming the trip.

Taxi companies could also be permitted to register as TVDE operators if they meet the relevant requirements and join a licensed digital platform. However, while providing TVDE services, those vehicles would lose privileges reserved for conventional taxis, including using taxi ranks, collecting passengers directly from the street and accessing certain designated areas.

Another proposed change would allow advertising both inside and outside TVDE vehicles, with the Institute for Mobility and Transport responsible for defining the technical requirements.

The revision represents one of the most substantial updates to Portugal’s TVDE legislation since the framework was introduced in 2018. Supporters say the measures could improve passenger safety and communication, while critics have raised concerns over privacy, pricing and competition between taxis and ride-hailing platforms.