Complete guide 2026Updated April 2026Brazilian Driving Licence 2026 The Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about getting your CNH in Brazil — DETRAN theory test format (30 questions, 21 to pass, 70%), autoescola training costs R$1,500–3,000, Lei Seca zero BAC tolerance, speed limits, points system, and driving across 26 states + DF.
Table of Contents
Theory Test
30 multiple-choice questions drawn from an official question bank, covering traffic legislation, defensive driving, first aid, environment, and mechanics.
Must score at least 21/30 (70%) to pass. Computer-based test administered at DETRAN offices across all 26 states and DF.
Total Cost
Total CNH cost typically R$1,500–3,000 including autoescola enrolment (R$800–1,500), medical exam (R$100–250), psychological exam (R$100–250), DETRAN theory exam fee (R$80–200), practical exam fee (R$100–300), and licence issuance (R$80–200).
Varies significantly by state.
Road Deaths
Approximately 34,000 fatalities in 2023, down from 46,000+ at the peak in 2012.
Motorcyclists account for ~33% and pedestrians ~20% of all deaths. Brazil has the 3rd highest road death toll globally after India and China.
Lei Seca (Zero BAC)
Zero tolerance (0.00% BAC) since 2012 under the Lei Seca (Dry Law).
Any detectable alcohol: R$2,934.70 fine + 12-month licence suspension. BAC ≥0.06% (or refusal to test): criminal charge with 6–36 months detention + licence suspension. Over 750,000 drivers caught since implementation.
Points System
Drivers accumulate points for infractions: light (3 pts), medium (4 pts), serious (5 pts), very serious (7 pts).
Suspension thresholds depend on gravíssima history: 20 points if driver has 2+ gravíssima infractions, 30 points if 1 gravíssima, 40 points if no gravíssima in the 12-month period. Professional drivers with EAR (Exerce Atividade Remunerada): 40 points regardless. Points reset annually.
Global Context
Brazil’s road death rate (~15.8/100K) is well above the global average.
Zero BAC policy is among the strictest globally. CNH cost (~$300–600 USD) is moderate by world standards. The 2020 reform (Lei 14.071) raised point thresholds and extended licence validity to 10 years for drivers under 50.
Brazil Road Safety: 3-Year Trend (2021–2023)
Brazil’s road fatalities have declined significantly from their 2012 peak of over 46,000 deaths, driven by the Lei Seca enforcement, improved vehicle safety standards, and the Programa Vida no Trânsito. However, at ~34,000 deaths annually, Brazil still ranks among the top 5 countries globally for road fatalities. Motorcycle deaths have been rising as a proportion of total deaths.
Road deaths by year
Deaths per 100,000 Population
- Brazil15.8
Mexico12.5
Argentina12.4
USA12.2
Portugal5.6
Source: WHO Global Status Report on Road Safety, DATASUS / Brazilian Ministry of Health. Per-capita rates are estimates and may vary by methodology.
Brazilian Theory Test Format
Computer-based theory test administered at DETRAN offices across all 26 states and the Federal District
The Brazilian driving theory test (prova teórica) consists of 30 multiple-choice questions to be completed in a timed session. To pass, candidates must answer at least 21 of 30 correctly (70%). The questions cover five mandatory topics: traffic legislation (CTB), defensive driving (direção defensiva), first aid (primeiros socorros), environment and citizenship (meio ambiente e cidadania), and basic vehicle mechanics (mecânica básica). The test is administered at DETRAN offices in all 26 states and the Federal District, with some states offering online scheduling. After passing the theory, candidates proceed to the practical driving test (prova prática).
Questions
Duration
Pass Mark
Test Fee
What the Theory Test Covers
- Código de Trânsito Brasileiro (Brazilian Traffic Code)
- Traffic signs, signals & road markings
- Right-of-way rules at intersections
- Speed limits by road type
- Penalties and infraction categories
- Defensive driving techniques (direção defensiva)
- First aid basics (primeiros socorros)
- Emergency procedures at accident scenes
- Seatbelt and child restraint requirements
- Safe following distances and overtaking
- Environmental impact of vehicles
- Fuel efficiency and emissions
- Basic vehicle maintenance and mechanics
- Tyre condition and brake systems
- Pre-departure vehicle checks
- 1
Enrol at an Autoescola
Register at a DETRAN-accredited driving school (autoescola / centro de formação de condutores — CFC)
The autoescola provides mandatory theory classes (45 hours minimum) and practical driving lessons (25 hours minimum for category B; reduced to 2 hours under Resolution 1.020/2025 at select schools). Cost: R$800–1,500 for the full package.
- 2
Medical & Psychological Exams
Pass mandatory medical (exame médico) and psychological (exame psicológico) evaluations
Conducted by DETRAN-accredited clinics. Medical: vision, general health. Psychological: aptitude assessment. Cost: R$100–250 each. Required before taking the theory test.
- 3
Complete Theory Course (45h)
Attend all required theory classes at the autoescola
45 hours covering: traffic legislation (18h), defensive driving (16h), first aid (4h), environment (4h), mechanics (3h). Some states allow EAD (online) for part of the theory.
- 4
Pass the Theory Test
Take the computer-based theory exam at DETRAN
30 questions, need 21/30 correct (70%). Covers all five mandatory topics. Fee: R$80–200 depending on state. Can retake if failed.
- 5
Complete Practical Lessons (25h)
Take at least 25 hours of practical driving lessons at the autoescola
Minimum 25 hours for category B (traditional requirement; reduced to 2 hours under Resolution 1.020/2025 at select schools). Includes 5 hours of night driving. Must be completed at a DETRAN-accredited CFC with a dual-control vehicle.
- 6
Pass the Practical Test
Complete the practical driving exam (prova prática) at a DETRAN test route
Tested on: starting on a hill, parallel parking, three-point turn, lane changes, and real traffic driving. Exam fee: R$100–300 depending on state.
- 7
Receive PPD, then CNH
Get your Provisional Driving Permit (PPD), and after 1 year receive your definitive CNH
PPD is valid for 1 year. If no serious/very serious infractions during PPD period, you receive the definitive CNH. Issuance fee: R$80–200.
Brazilian CNH Fees
Total cost typically R$1,500–3,000 — varies significantly by state and autoescola
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Autoescola enrolment & training (theory + practical) | R$800–1,500 |
| Medical exam (exame médico) | R$100–250 |
| Psychological exam (exame psicológico) | R$100–250 |
| DETRAN theory exam fee | R$80–200 |
| DETRAN practical exam fee | R$100–300 |
| CNH issuance fee | R$80–200 |
| Additional practical lessons (if needed) | R$50–100/hour |
| Total Typical (Category B) | R$1,500–3,000 |
Prices vary significantly between states. São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro tend to be more expensive. DETRAN fees are set by each state. Retake fees apply for failed exams. Some autoescolas offer package deals including all exams and fees.
See how ready you are — practice with real exam questions
Try Free QuestionsMinimum age by licence category
- ACC — Autorização para Conduzir Ciclomotor (mopeds up to 50cc)Separate authorization, not a CNH category18years
- A — Motorcycles, trikes, and motor scooters18years
- B — Cars up to 8 passengers, trucks under 3,500 kgMost common category18years
- C — Trucks and cargo vehicles over 3,500 kgRequires 1 year with cat. B21years
- D — Buses and minibuses (8+ passengers)Requires 2 years with cat. B or 1 year with cat. C21years
- E — Articulated vehicles, trailers, truck-trailer combosRequires 1 year with cat. C or D21years
CNH Validity Periods
| Licence / age | Validity |
|---|---|
| Under 50 years oldExtended from 5 years by Lei 14.071/2020 | 10 years |
| 50–69 years oldStandard renewal period | 5 years |
| 70 years and olderMedical exam required at each renewal | 3 years |
| Professional drivers (remunerated)Regardless of age, if engaged in paid driving | 5 years |
Points System (Sistema de Pontuação)
- Light infraction (infração leve): 3 points
- Medium infraction (infração média): 4 points
- Serious infraction (infração grave): 5 points
- Very serious infraction (infração gravíssima): 7 points
- Suspension thresholds (12-month period): 20 pts if 2+ gravíssima, 30 pts if 1 gravíssima, 40 pts if no gravíssima. Professional drivers (EAR): 40 pts regardless.
PPD (Provisional Driving Permit)
- PPD valid for 1 year after passing all exams
- Zero tolerance: any serious/very serious infraction = PPD cancelled
- Must not commit a repeat infraction (even light/medium)
- After clean PPD period, receive definitive CNH
- If PPD cancelled, must restart the entire licensing process
Speed Limits in Brazil
As per Código de Trânsito Brasileiro (CTB) Art. 61 — all speeds in km/h
Brazil’s speed limits are set by the CTB and apply nationally, though local authorities may post different limits. In urban areas (vias urbanas), the default limit for local roads is 30 km/h, collector roads 40 km/h, arterial roads 60 km/h, and expressways (vias de trânsito rápido) 80 km/h. On rural highways (rodovias), the default for single carriageways is 100 km/h for cars and 90 km/h for heavy vehicles. Divided highways (rodovias de pista dupla) allow up to 110 km/h for cars. Speed enforcement via fixed and mobile radar (radar de velocidade) is widespread.
| Road Type | Cars / Light Vehicles | Motorcycles | Trucks / Buses | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Urban — local road (via local) | 30 | 30 | 30 | Residential/local streets |
| Urban — arterial (via arterial) | 60 | 60 | 60 | Major city roads |
| Urban — expressway (via rápida) | 80 | 80 | 80 | Urban motorways |
| Rural — single carriageway (pista simples) | 100 | 100 | 90 | Undivided highways |
| Rural — dual carriageway (pista dupla) | 110 | 110 | 80–90 | Divided highways |
Urban — local road (via local)
Cars / Light Vehicles: 30Motorcycles: 30Trucks / Buses: 30Residential/local streets
Urban — arterial (via arterial)
Cars / Light Vehicles: 60Motorcycles: 60Trucks / Buses: 60Major city roads
Urban — expressway (via rápida)
Cars / Light Vehicles: 80Motorcycles: 80Trucks / Buses: 80Urban motorways
Rural — single carriageway (pista simples)
Cars / Light Vehicles: 100Motorcycles: 100Trucks / Buses: 90Undivided highways
Rural — dual carriageway (pista dupla)
Cars / Light Vehicles: 110Motorcycles: 110Trucks / Buses: 80–90Divided highways
Speed limits shown are CTB defaults. Local traffic authorities (DETRAN / órgão de trânsito) may post different limits. Speed radar enforcement is widespread. Speeding fines start at R$130.16 (up to 20% over limit) and reach R$880.41 (50%+ over limit, very serious infraction with licence suspension).
Traffic Fines & Penalties
As per Código de Trânsito Brasileiro (CTB) — fines updated to current values
Brazilian traffic fines are categorized by severity: light (leve, R$88.38), medium (média, R$130.16), serious (grave, R$195.23), and very serious (gravíssima, R$293.47). Some very serious infractions carry multiplying factors (2x, 3x, 5x, 10x, or even 20x). The Lei Seca zero-alcohol violation carries a R$2,934.70 fine (10x gravíssima). Speeding over 50% above the limit is R$880.41 (3x gravíssima) with licence suspension. All fines are adjusted annually.
Up to R$200R$201–1,000Over R$1,000
| Violation | Severity | Fine (R$) | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drunk driving (Lei Seca — any BAC) | Gravíssima 10x | R$2,934.70 | Suspended |
| Running red light | Gravíssima | R$293.47 | 7 |
| Speeding 20–50% over limit | Grave | R$195.23 | 5 |
| Speeding >50% over limit | Gravíssima 3x | R$880.41 | 7 + Suspended |
| Using phone while driving | Gravíssima | R$293.47 | 7 |
| Not wearing seatbelt | Grave | R$195.23 | 5 |
| Driving without CNH | Gravíssima 3x | R$880.41 | — |
| Overtaking on continuous line | Gravíssima | R$293.47 | 7 |
| Child without proper restraint | Gravíssima | R$293.47 | 7 |
| No headlights on rodovia | Média | R$130.16 | 4 |
| Parking in disabled spot without permit | Gravíssima | R$293.47 | 7 |
| Refusing alcohol test (Lei Seca) | Gravíssima 10x | R$2,934.70 | Suspended |
- R$2,934.70
Drunk driving (Lei Seca — any BAC)
Gravíssima 10x - R$293.47
Running red light
Gravíssima - R$195.23
Speeding 20–50% over limit
Grave - R$880.41
Speeding >50% over limit
Gravíssima 3x - R$293.47
Using phone while driving
Gravíssima - R$195.23
Not wearing seatbelt
Grave - R$880.41
Driving without CNH
Gravíssima 3x - R$293.47
Overtaking on continuous line
Gravíssima - R$293.47
Child without proper restraint
Gravíssima - R$130.16
No headlights on rodovia
Média - R$293.47
Parking in disabled spot without permit
Gravíssima - R$2,934.70
Refusing alcohol test (Lei Seca)
Gravíssima 10x
Fines shown are base values from the CTB, adjusted annually. Multiplying factors apply for certain very serious infractions. Lei Seca violations also result in 12-month licence suspension. Professional drivers face additional penalties. Fines double if committed in school zones.
Know These Rules Before Your Theory Test
Traffic fines, speed limits, and the points system are heavily tested in the Brazilian CNH theory exam. Practice with real exam-style questions.
How the road worksMandatory, with a penaltyMakes it easier
Drive on the Right
Brazil uses right-hand traffic.
Overtake on the left. On multi-lane roads, use the right lane for slower traffic. On rodovias, keep right except when overtaking.
Lei Seca (Zero BAC)
Zero tolerance (0.00% BAC) for all drivers since 2012.
Any detectable alcohol: R$2,934.70 fine + 12-month licence suspension. BAC ≥0.06%: criminal offence with up to 3 years detention. Refusing a breathalyser carries the same administrative penalty.
Mandatory Headlights on Rodovias
Headlights must be on at all times when driving on rodovias (highways outside urban areas), even during daylight.
Medium infraction (R$130.16, 4 points). Applies to all vehicle types.
Points System (Pontuação)
Infractions add 3–7 points.
Suspension thresholds are severity-based: 20 points if 2+ gravíssima infractions, 30 points if 1 gravíssima, 40 points if no gravíssima within 12 months. Professional drivers (EAR): 40 points regardless. Points reset annually per Lei 14.071/2020.
Seatbelts & Child Restraints
Seatbelts mandatory for all occupants (front and rear).
Children under 10 must use appropriate child restraints. Children under 1: rear-facing seat. 1–4 years: forward-facing seat. 4–7.5: booster. 7.5–10: rear seatbelt. Very serious infraction.
Rodizío (Licence Plate Rotation)
In São Paulo and some cities, vehicles are restricted from driving on certain days based on the last digit of their licence plate.
Fines apply for violations. Check local rodizío rules when driving in major cities.
Phone Use Prohibited
Handheld phone use is prohibited while driving.
Very serious infraction: R$293.47 fine + 7 points. Hands-free and Bluetooth are permitted. Applies even when stopped at traffic lights.
No Mandatory Traffic Insurance
Brazil’s mandatory DPVAT traffic accident insurance was abolished in 2020.
Its replacement, SPVAT (Seguro Obrigatório para Proteção de Vítimas de Acidentes de Trânsito), was enacted in 2024 but repealed in December 2024 before collection began. Brazil currently has no mandatory traffic accident insurance. Vehicle owners must still pay annual licensing fees (IPVA + licenciamento) to legally drive.
Speed Radar (Radar de Velocidade)
Brazil has one of the world’s densest networks of speed cameras.
Fixed and mobile radars are widespread. No legal requirement to warn drivers (though some states post signs). Speed tolerance is 7 km/h for fixed radars.
Common Road Hazards in Brazil
~34,000 road fatalities in 2023 — know these hazards to stay safe on Brazilian roads
Motorcycle Traffic
Motorcyclists (motoboys) are ubiquitous in cities, weaving between lanes. Motorcycle accidents account for ~33% of all road deaths. Extra caution when changing lanes in urban areas
Potholes and Road Conditions
Many roads, especially in rural areas and smaller cities, have significant potholes and poor maintenance. Sudden drops and uneven surfaces are common even on major rodovias
Heavy Rain and Flooding
Tropical and subtropical rains cause flash flooding, especially in January–March. Urban flooding (alagamentos) can submerge roads in minutes. Mountain roads prone to landslides
Truck Traffic on Rodovias
Heavy truck traffic on major highways (especially BR-101, BR-116, BR-153). Limited overtaking opportunities on single-carriageway highways lead to dangerous passing situations
Animals on Rural Roads
Livestock and wild animals crossing rural roads, especially at night. No fencing on many rodovias. Capybaras, horses, and cattle are common hazards in the interior
Urban Intersection Dangers
Many intersections lack traffic lights. ‘Round’ right-of-way rules can be confusing. Pedestrians crossing outside crosswalks is extremely common in all cities
Brazil’s States & DETRAN Offices
Each of Brazil’s 26 states and the Federal District has its own DETRAN responsible for driving licence administration
- 1São PauloSão PauloSudeste46.6M
- 2Minas GeraisBelo HorizonteSudeste21.4M
- 3Rio de JaneiroRio de JaneiroSudeste17.5M
- 4BahiaSalvadorNordeste14.9M
- 5ParanáCuritibaSul11.6M
- 6Rio Grande do SulPorto AlegreSul11.5M
- 7PernambucoRecifeNordeste9.7M
- 8CearáFortalezaNordeste9.2M
- 9ParáBelémNorte8.8M
- 10Distrito FederalBrasíliaCentro-Oeste3.1M
Brazil has 26 states plus the Federal District (Distrito Federal). Each state has its own DETRAN (Departamento Estadual de Trânsito) with slightly different fees and procedures. CONTRAN sets national standards. Test content is standardized nationally but fees vary by state.
Myth: You can have ‘just one beer’ and still drive legally under Lei Seca
Fact: Brazil has absolute zero tolerance (0.00% BAC). Even one beer can trigger the breathalyser. Administrative penalty: R$2,934.70 fine + 12-month suspension. If BAC ≥0.06%, it becomes a criminal offence with up to 3 years detention. Over 750,000 drivers have been caught since Lei Seca’s implementation.
Myth: The theory test is easy and everyone passes on the first attempt
Fact: First-attempt pass rates vary by state but many candidates fail the theory test. The 30 questions cover 5 different topics including first aid and vehicle mechanics, which many candidates underestimate. Dedicated study of the official material for all five topic areas is essential.
Myth: You only need to worry about speed cameras on rodovias
Fact: Speed radars are extremely common in urban areas too. Brazil has one of the world’s densest networks of speed cameras. Many cities have cameras at every major intersection. School zones have strict 30 km/h limits with doubled fines. Mobile radars can appear anywhere.
Myth: International driving permits work indefinitely in Brazil
Fact: Foreign visitors can drive with an IDP for up to 180 days. After establishing residency, you must convert to a Brazilian CNH within 180 days. Some countries have reciprocity agreements. An IDP alone (without the original licence) is not valid. The IDP must be from a Geneva/Vienna Convention country.
Myth: The PPD (Provisional Permit) has the same rules as a definitive CNH
Fact: The PPD is far stricter. ANY serious or very serious infraction during the 1-year PPD period cancels the permit entirely, and you must restart the entire licensing process from scratch. Even a repeated light/medium infraction can trigger cancellation. Zero tolerance applies for the PPD period.
Myth: Licence renewal only requires paying a fee
Fact: Licence renewal requires a medical exam (exame médico) every time. Professional drivers and holders of C, D, or E category licences also need a psychological exam (exame psicológico) at renewal. You cannot just pay a fee — you must pass the health assessments to renew.
SPVAT enacted then repealed
DPVAT was abolished in 2020. Its replacement, SPVAT (Seguro Obrigatório para Proteção de Vítimas de Acidentes de Trânsito), was enacted in 2024 but repealed in December 2024 before collection began. Brazil currently has no mandatory traffic accident insurance.
Lei 14.071/2020 takes full effect
Major CTB reform: CNH validity extended to 10 years (under 50), point thresholds raised to 20/30/40, child restraint rules updated, digital CNH fully recognized, and penalty system modernized.
Digital CNH (CNH-e) becomes standard
The digital CNH (CNH-e) via the Carteira Digital de Trânsito app became officially equivalent to the physical document. All DETRANs now issue digital licences alongside physical cards.
Lei Seca strengthened again
Additional enforcement tools introduced. Passive breathalysers, clinical signs, and video evidence now sufficient to prove intoxication. Refusal to test carries same administrative penalty as positive result.
SIMRAV vehicle tracking mandatory for certain fleets
CONTRAN Resolution 575/2016 required vehicle tracking for rental fleets and freight vehicles. Expanded electronic monitoring of the national vehicle fleet.
Lei Seca zero-tolerance BAC enacted
Lei 12.760/2012 established zero tolerance (0.00% BAC) for all drivers, replacing the previous 0.06% limit. Criminal penalties for BAC ≥0.06% with up to 3 years detention. Credited with significant reduction in alcohol-related road deaths.
How Brazil Compares Globally
Brazil’s driving regulations compared to other countries — data compiled from official government sources
StrictestIn betweenMost lenientBAC limit and minimum age
| Parameter | Brazil | USA | Mexico | Argentina | Portugal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAC Limit | 0.00% | 0.08% | 0.08% | 0.05% | 0.05% |
| Min. Age (Car) | 18 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| Driving Side | Right | Right | Right | Right | Right |
| Highway Speed | 110 | ~120 | 110 | 130 | 120 |
| Test Questions | 30 | 20–50 | ~20 | ~30 | 30 |
| Licence Cost | R$1.5–3K | $30–90 | ~$40 | ~$100 | €700–1.2K |
| Road Deaths/yr | ~34,000 | 40,901 | ~16,000 | ~5,800 | 560 |
| Deaths/100K | ~15.8 | 12.2 | ~12.5 | ~12.4 | ~5.6 |
BAC Limit
Brazil: 0.00%USA: 0.08%Mexico: 0.08%Argentina: 0.05%Portugal: 0.05%Min. Age (Car)
Brazil: 18USA: 16Mexico: 18Argentina: 18Portugal: 18Driving Side
Brazil: RightUSA: RightMexico: RightArgentina: RightPortugal: RightHighway Speed
Brazil: 110USA: ~120Mexico: 110Argentina: 130Portugal: 120Test Questions
Brazil: 30USA: 20–50Mexico: ~20Argentina: ~30Portugal: 30Licence Cost
Brazil: R$1.5–3KUSA: $30–90Mexico: ~$40Argentina: ~$100Portugal: €700–1.2KRoad Deaths/yr
Brazil: ~34,000USA: 40,901Mexico: ~16,000Argentina: ~5,800Portugal: 560Deaths/100K
Brazil: ~15.8USA: 12.2Mexico: ~12.5Argentina: ~12.4Portugal: ~5.6
Brazil
Strictest in the Americas — zero tolerance for all drivers. USA 0.08%, Mexico 0.08%, Argentina 0.05%, Portugal 0.05%.
Same as Mexico and Argentina. USA allows from 16, Portugal from 18.
Lower than many countries. USA ~120 (varies), Mexico 110, Argentina 130, Portugal 120 km/h.
Moderate globally. USA $30–90, Mexico ~$40, Argentina ~$100, Portugal €700–1,200.
~15.8 per 100K — higher than USA (12.2), Argentina (12.4), Portugal (5.6). 3rd highest total globally.
Road deaths: Brazil ~34,000 (DATASUS/World Bank 2023), USA 40,901 (NHTSA 2023), Mexico ~16,000 (INEGI 2022), Argentina ~5,800 (ANSV 2023), Portugal 560 (ANSR 2023). Per-capita rates: Brazil ~15.8, USA 12.2, Mexico ~12.5, Argentina ~12.4, Portugal ~5.6 per 100K.
Primary Sources
Verification Methodology
Every fact on this page has been cross-referenced against at least two authoritative sources. Our process:
- 1Primary data collected from Brazilian legislation (CTB, Lei Seca, Lei 14.071/2020)
- 2Cross-verified against CONTRAN resolutions, DATASUS statistics, and WHO reports
- 3Regional fee variations noted where applicable (prices differ by state DETRAN)
- 4Page reviewed and fact-checked on March 27, 2026
If you find an error, please contact us so we can correct it immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a CNH cost in Brazil?
Total cost is typically R$1,500–3,000, including autoescola training (R$800–1,500), medical exam (R$100–250), psychological exam (R$100–250), DETRAN exam fees (R$180–500 for theory + practical), and licence issuance (R$80–200). Prices vary significantly by state. São Paulo tends to be most expensive.
What is the Brazilian theory test format?
The theory test has 30 multiple-choice questions covering five topics: traffic legislation (CTB), defensive driving, first aid, environment/citizenship, and basic mechanics. You need 21/30 correct (70%) to pass. The test is computer-based at DETRAN offices. You must complete 45 hours of theory classes at an accredited autoescola before taking the exam.
What is the blood alcohol limit in Brazil?
Brazil has zero tolerance (0.00% BAC) under the Lei Seca since 2012. Any detectable alcohol: R$2,934.70 fine + 12-month licence suspension. BAC ≥0.06% (or equivalent 0.3 mg/L breath): criminal charge with 6–36 months detention + licence ban. Refusing a breathalyser carries the same administrative penalty.
What are the speed limits in Brazil?
Urban: local roads 30 km/h, collector 40 km/h, arterial 60 km/h, urban expressways 80 km/h. Rural: single carriageway 100 km/h for cars, 90 km/h for heavy vehicles; dual carriageway up to 110 km/h for cars. Speed cameras are extremely common.
What are the emergency numbers in Brazil?
190 — Military Police (Polícia Militar). 192 — SAMU Ambulance. 193 — Fire Department (Corpo de Bombeiros). 191 — Federal Highway Police (PRF). 197 — Civil Police. All toll-free, 24/7.
Can foreigners drive in Brazil?
Foreign visitors can drive with an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a foreign licence (from a Vienna/Geneva Convention country) for up to 180 days. After establishing residency, you must obtain a Brazilian CNH within 180 days. Some countries (e.g., Portugal, Italy, Japan) have reciprocity agreements for simplified conversion.
What is the PPD (Provisional Driving Permit)?
The PPD is a provisional licence valid for 1 year after passing all exams. During this period, any serious or very serious infraction cancels the PPD, and you must restart the entire process. Even a repeated light/medium infraction can cancel it. After a clean year, you receive the definitive CNH.
How does the points system work in Brazil?
Infractions add points: light (3), medium (4), serious (5), very serious (7). Suspension thresholds depend on gravíssima history in the 12-month period: 20 points if 2+ gravíssima infractions, 30 points if 1 gravíssima, 40 points if no gravíssima. Professional drivers (EAR): 40 points regardless. Points reset each 12-month cycle per Lei 14.071/2020.
How long is a Brazilian CNH valid?
Under 50 years: 10 years (extended from 5 by Lei 14.071/2020). Age 50–69: 5 years. Age 70+: 3 years. Professional (remunerated) drivers: 5 years regardless of age. Renewal requires a medical exam; professional drivers and C/D/E category holders also need a psychological exam.
What documents must I carry while driving in Brazil?
You must carry: CNH (physical or digital CNH-e), CRLV (vehicle registration and licensing certificate), and proof of current licensing. You do not need to carry the IPVA receipt separately if the CRLV is current. Failure to produce CNH: very serious infraction (R$880.41 fine). Digital CNH via app is legally equivalent.
What is the rodizío vehicle restriction in São Paulo?
The rodizío municipal restricts vehicles from driving in central São Paulo on certain weekdays based on the last digit of the licence plate. It operates 7:00–10:00 and 17:00–20:00 on weekdays. Fine: R$130.16. Other cities (e.g., Bogotá-style systems) may have similar restrictions. Visitors should check local rules.
Are child safety seats required in Brazil?
Yes, strictly enforced. Under 1 year: rear-facing infant seat. 1–4 years: forward-facing child seat. 4–7.5 years: booster seat. 7.5–10 years: rear seat with seatbelt. Children under 10 cannot ride in the front seat. Very serious infraction: R$293.47 fine + 7 points.
How does the digital CNH (CNH-e) work?
The digital CNH is available through the Carteira Digital de Trânsito app (iOS/Android). It is legally equivalent to the physical card. Features QR code verification, biometric security, and is accepted by all law enforcement. Available to all CNH holders through their state DETRAN.
Is it true that headlights must be on during the day in Brazil?
Yes, on rodovias (highways outside urban areas). Daytime running lights or low-beam headlights must be on at all times when driving on any rodovia, regardless of visibility conditions. Failure to comply is a medium infraction (R$130.16, 4 points). In urban areas, headlights are only required at night or in poor visibility.
What is the minimum driving age in Brazil?
18 years for all CNH categories (A through E). There is no graduated licensing for younger drivers. For the ACC (moped authorization), the minimum age is 18 as well. Category upgrades require time with the previous category: C requires 1 year with B, D requires 2 years with B, E requires 1 year with C or D.
Cite This Page
Use the following citations when referencing this article in academic papers, journalism, or reports.
APA 7th Edition
AutoviaTest. (2026, March 27). Brazil driving licence facts 2026 — CNH test, fees, fines & rules. https://autoviatest.com/en/driving-test/brazil/facts
MLA 9th Edition
AutoviaTest. "Brazil Driving Licence Facts 2026 — CNH Test, Fees, Fines & Rules." AutoviaTest, 27 Mar. 2026, autoviatest.com/en/driving-test/brazil/facts.
Chicago 17th Edition
AutoviaTest. "Brazil Driving Licence Facts 2026 — CNH Test, Fees, Fines & Rules." Last modified March 27, 2026. https://autoviatest.com/en/driving-test/brazil/facts.
Ready to Pass Your Brazilian CNH Test?
Practice with official theory questions covering all five mandatory topics — traffic legislation, defensive driving, first aid, environment, and mechanics. Detailed explanations included.
More Country Driving Guides
USA Driving Licence Facts & DMV GuideDMV test format, fees, speed limits, traffic fines, state-wise information, and everything about driving in the United States.Portugal Driving Licence 2026 — The Complete GuideIMT theory test, driving school costs, speed limits, traffic fines, and the points system.Mexico Driving Licence 2026 — The Complete GuideState-by-state test format, driving costs, speed limits, and traffic rules.Argentina Driving Licence 2026 — The Complete GuideTheory test format, driving school costs, speed limits, fines, and the scoring system.