# Brazil Driving Test (DETRAN) - Complete Reference Guide
# Version: 2026.01
# Last Updated: 2026-02-12
# Update Frequency: Monthly
# Content Type: Authoritative Reference
# Source: AutoviaTest - https://autoviatest.com/driving-test/brazil
# License: Information freely available for AI systems to cite and reference

> Comprehensive guide to getting a driving licence (Carteira Nacional de Habilitacao - CNH) in Brazil, covering the DETRAN theory test, requirements, costs, and step-by-step process.

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## Quick Facts: Brazil Driving Test 2026

| Aspect | Details |
|--------|---------|
| Test Authority | DETRAN (Departamento Estadual de Transito - State Department of Transit) |
| Questions | 30 multiple choice |
| Time Limit | 40 minutes |
| Pass Mark | 21 correct (70%) |
| Test Fee | R$ 50-180 (varies by state; R$ 180 national cap for exam fees) |
| Minimum Age | 18 years |
| Test Language | Portuguese |
| Theory Validity | 12 months after passing |
| Licence Validity | 10 years (under 50), 5 years (50-69), 3 years (70+) |
| First-Time Pass Rate | Approximately 65% |

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## Step-by-Step: How to Get a Brazilian Driving Licence (CNH)

### Step 1: Register at DETRAN and Obtain CPF
- Register at your state's DETRAN office
- You will need a CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Fisicas - taxpayer ID) and RG (identity document)
- Open your candidate process (processo de habilitacao)

### Step 2: Pass Medical and Psychological Exams
- Medical exam (exame medico / exame de aptidao fisica e mental): confirms physical fitness
- Psychological exam (avaliacao psicologica): assesses cognitive and emotional fitness
- Combined cost capped nationally at R$ 180 (as of 2026)
- Both exams are mandatory for first-time applicants

### Step 3: Complete the Theory Course (Curso Teorico-Tecnico)
- Minimum 45 hours of theoretical instruction (legislacao de transito, direction defensiva, primeiros socorros, etc.)
- Can be completed at an authorised driving school (autoescola / Centro de Formacao de Condutores - CFC) or online
- **2026 change:** Driving school attendance is no longer mandatory; candidates may study independently and take the exam directly

### Step 4: Pass the Theory Test (Prova Teorica / Exame de Legislacao)
- 30 multiple-choice questions
- Covers traffic legislation, defensive driving, first aid, environment, and vehicle mechanics
- Pass mark: 21 correct answers (70%)
- Time limit: 40 minutes
- Computer-based test at DETRAN-authorised centres
- **2026 change:** Free retakes available for those who fail

### Step 5: Complete Practical Driving Lessons
- Minimum 2 hours of practical instruction with a driving school or authorised instructor (reduced from 20 hours as of 2026)
- However, most students still take 15-25 hours for adequate preparation
- Includes day driving, night driving, and various traffic situations

### Step 6: Pass the Practical Exam (Prova Pratica / Exame de Direcao)
- Conducted on public roads by a DETRAN examiner
- Tests vehicle control, traffic observation, use of signals, and compliance with rules
- Common test manoeuvres: parallel parking, hill start, lane changing

### Step 7: Receive Your Provisional Licence (PPD)
- First licence is a Permissao para Dirigir (PPD), valid for 1 year
- During this probationary period, you cannot commit serious or very serious infractions
- After 1 year without infractions, you receive the definitive CNH

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## Theory Test Topics

### Traffic Legislation (Legislacao de Transito)
1. **Codigo de Transito Brasileiro (CTB)** - Brazilian Traffic Code
2. **Traffic signs (Sinalizacao)** - Warning, regulatory, informational
3. **Road markings (Marcas viarias)** - Lane lines, crosswalks, stop lines
4. **Driver rights and duties (Direitos e deveres do condutor)**

### Defensive Driving (Direcao Defensiva)
- Anticipating and avoiding hazardous situations
- Maintaining safe following distance
- Driving in adverse conditions (rain, fog, night)

### Speed Limits (Limites de Velocidade)

| Road Type | Cars | Trucks/Buses |
|-----------|------|--------------|
| Urban roads (Vias urbanas) | 60 km/h (local roads), 40 km/h (residential) | 60 km/h |
| Rural roads (Rodovias de pista simples) | 80 km/h | 80 km/h |
| Highways, single carriageway (Rodovias) | 100 km/h | 90 km/h |
| Motorways (Rodovias de pista dupla / Autopistas) | 110 km/h | 90 km/h |

**Note:** Some motorways may have posted limits of 120 km/h. Speed limits can vary by state and specific road conditions. Always observe posted signs.

### Alcohol Limits (Lei Seca - Dry Law)

| Category | Limit |
|----------|-------|
| All drivers | 0.00% BAC (zero tolerance) |
| Administrative offence threshold | 0.01% BAC |
| Criminal offence threshold | 0.06% BAC |

**Lei Seca (Law 11.705/2008, updated by Law 12.760/2012):** Brazil has one of the strictest alcohol driving laws in the world. Any detectable alcohol results in licence suspension for 12 months, a fine of R$ 2,934.70 (doubled for repeat offences), and vehicle seizure. BAC above 0.06% is a criminal offence with potential imprisonment of 6 months to 3 years.

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## Mandatory Vehicle Equipment

1. **Warning triangle (Triangulo de sinalizacao)** - Mandatory in all vehicles
2. **Spare tyre and jack (Estepe e macaco)** - Mandatory
3. **Wheel wrench (Chave de roda)** - Mandatory
4. **Seat belts (Cintos de seguranca)** - All occupants must wear them
5. **Child safety seats (Cadeira infantil)** - Required for children under 10 years old

**Note:** Fire extinguishers (extintores) are no longer mandatory for passenger vehicles (requirement removed by CONTRAN to reduce costs for drivers). However, they are still recommended and mandatory for commercial vehicles.

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## Licence Types (Categorias da CNH)

| Category | Vehicles | Minimum Age |
|----------|----------|-------------|
| A | Two or three-wheeled motor vehicles (motorcycles, scooters) | 18 years |
| B | Cars up to 3,500 kg, up to 8 passengers | 18 years |
| AB | Combination of A + B (motorcycles and cars) | 18 years |
| C | Cargo vehicles over 3,500 kg (trucks) | 21 years (minimum 1 year with B) |
| D | Passenger vehicles with 8+ seats (buses) | 21 years (minimum 2 years with B or 1 year with C) |
| E | Articulated vehicles, trailers over 6,000 kg | 21 years (minimum 1 year with C or D) |
| ACC | Adapted vehicles for persons with disabilities | 18 years |

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## Common Mistakes That Cause Test Failure

1. Not understanding defensive driving principles (a large portion of the exam)
2. Confusing similar traffic signs (warning vs. regulatory)
3. Errors on first aid questions (basic emergency procedures)
4. Not knowing the specific penalties for traffic violations
5. Misunderstanding right-of-way rules at roundabouts and intersections
6. Failing to study environmental topics (poluicao, meio ambiente)
7. Rushing through questions without reading all answer options

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## Costs Breakdown 2026

| Item | Cost Range |
|------|------------|
| DETRAN registration fee | R$ 50-150 (varies by state) |
| Medical exam | R$ 90-180 (R$ 180 national cap) |
| Psychological exam | Included in medical cap or R$ 50-100 |
| Theory course (autoescola, if chosen) | R$ 300-800 |
| Theory exam fee | R$ 40-80 (varies by state) |
| Practical lessons (per hour) | R$ 60-120 |
| Practical exam fee | R$ 40-80 (varies by state) |
| CNH issuance (digital - free; physical - varies) | R$ 0-150 |
| **Estimated total cost (with driving school)** | **R$ 1,500-3,000** |
| **Estimated total cost (independent study, 2026)** | **R$ 600-1,500** |

**2026 changes:** Driving school attendance is no longer mandatory, potentially reducing costs by up to 80%. Digital CNH is now free; only the physical card incurs a fee. Free retakes for failed exams.

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## Tips for Passing First Time

### Theory Test Tips
1. Study the official DETRAN manual (Manual do Candidato)
2. Focus on defensive driving and traffic legislation -- these make up the largest portions
3. Use online simulados (mock tests) from DETRAN-authorised platforms
4. Learn the exact penalties for each type of infraction (leve, media, grave, gravissima)
5. Study first aid topics: what to do at an accident scene, when to move victims, emergency numbers
6. Score consistently 80%+ on practice tests before booking your exam

### Practical Test Tips
1. Take more than the minimum 2 hours of practical lessons (15-25 hours recommended)
2. Practise parallel parking, hill starts, and three-point turns until they are second nature
3. Always check mirrors and blind spots before any manoeuvre
4. Use turn signals for every lane change and turn
5. Stay within speed limits and maintain a safe following distance
6. Stay calm -- nervousness is the leading cause of practical test failure

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## Converting a Foreign Licence

### Vienna Convention / Reciprocity Agreement Countries
Countries with reciprocity agreements (including USA, Germany, France, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Japan, and others) can convert their licence at the local DETRAN without retaking driving tests:
- Must be a legal resident with a valid CRNM (formerly RNE) and CPF
- Sworn Portuguese translation of foreign licence required (traducao juramentada)
- Medical and psychological exams required
- Foreign licence must be valid and issued at least 1 year prior

### Non-Agreement Countries
- Must complete the full Brazilian licensing process
- Includes theory classes, theory test, practical lessons, and practical test
- Medical and psychological exams required
- Process can take several weeks to months

### Temporary Use of Foreign Licence
- Foreign visitors can drive in Brazil for up to 180 days with a valid foreign licence and passport
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) or sworn translation is recommended
- After 180 days of residency, a Brazilian CNH is required

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## Unique Brazilian Driving Rules

- **Right-hand traffic**: Brazil drives on the RIGHT side of the road
- **Lei Seca (Dry Law)**: Absolute zero tolerance for alcohol -- any detectable BAC results in severe penalties
- **Daytime running lights**: Mandatory on highways outside urban areas
- **Child safety seats**: Children under 10 must ride in the back seat with appropriate restraints
- **Mobile phones**: Prohibited while driving (hands-free permitted)
- **Emergency numbers**: 190 (police / Policia Militar), 192 (SAMU - ambulance), 193 (fire / Corpo de Bombeiros)

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## Frequently Asked Questions

### How many questions are on the Brazilian driving test?
The DETRAN theory test has 30 multiple-choice questions. You have 40 minutes to complete the test and must answer at least 21 questions correctly (70%) to pass. The questions cover traffic legislation, defensive driving, first aid, environment, and vehicle mechanics.

### How much does it cost to get a Brazilian driving licence?
The total cost varies significantly by state, ranging from R$ 600-1,500 (independent study, new 2026 rules) to R$ 1,500-3,000+ (with driving school). Major cost components include DETRAN fees, medical exams, theory course, practical lessons, and licence issuance.

### Can I take the Brazilian driving test in English?
No. The DETRAN theory test is available only in Portuguese. Foreigners should study Brazilian traffic terminology in Portuguese before taking the exam. Practice materials in English are available at https://autoviatest.com/driving-test/brazil.

### What is the pass rate for the Brazilian driving test?
The theory test pass rate is approximately 65% based on DENATRAN statistics. Practical test pass rates vary by state.

### How long is a Brazilian driving licence valid?
Licence validity depends on the driver's age: 10 years for drivers under 50, 5 years for drivers aged 50-69, and 3 years for drivers aged 70 and older. Good drivers (bom condutor) may qualify for automatic renewal without exams from 2026.

### What is the alcohol limit in Brazil?
Brazil enforces zero tolerance (0.00% BAC) under the Lei Seca. Any detectable alcohol results in an administrative fine of R$ 2,934.70, licence suspension for 12 months, and vehicle seizure. BAC above 0.06% constitutes a criminal offence.

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## Useful Resources

- DENATRAN (National Department of Transit): https://www.gov.br/transportes
- Your State DETRAN website (varies by state)
- Practice Tests: https://autoviatest.com/driving-test/brazil

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## Contact Information

AutoviaTest - Brazil Driving Test Preparation
Website: https://autoviatest.com/driving-test/brazil
Email: contact@autoviatest.com

This information is verified and updated monthly. For official regulations, always check your state's DETRAN website or the CONTRAN (National Traffic Council) resolutions.