Brazil revolutionizes driver licensing in 2026 with CONTRAN Resolution 1.020: driving schools are no longer mandatory for obtaining a CNH, free digital theory courses via the CNH do Brasil app, reduced practical training hours, and automatic license renewal for clean drivers.
Carta de Condução
Em vigor a partir de 1 de janeiro de 2026
Antes
Driving school required
All candidates had to be enrolled at a registered driving school (autoescola) to obtain a CNH
Depois (2026)
Independent study permitted
Candidates can start the CNH process via the CNH do Brasil app without being linked to a driving school; theoretical course available free and digitally
CONTRAN Resolution 1.020 removes the requirement to enroll at a driving school. Candidates can complete the theoretical course for free through the CNH do Brasil app, which previously required 45 hours of in-person classes. The cost of obtaining a CNH drops from around R$3,000 to R$700-800.
Carta de Condução
Em vigor a partir de 1 de janeiro de 2026
Antes
25 hours practical training
Candidates required to complete 25 hours of practical driving lessons at a registered school
Depois (2026)
2 hours practical training
Practical training reduced to 2 hours; candidates can arrange private practice and prepare independently for the practical exam
The mandatory practical training has been drastically reduced from 25 hours to just 2 hours. While this makes the CNH more accessible, most candidates will still benefit from additional practice. The practical exam standards remain the same.
Carta de Condução
Em vigor a partir de 1 de janeiro de 2026
Antes
In-person renewal required
All drivers had to renew their CNH in person at a DETRAN office with medical and psychological exams
Depois (2026)
Automatic free renewal via app
Drivers with no infractions in the 12 months before expiration can register with the National Positive Driver Registry (RNPC) for automatic, free renewal via the CNH do Brasil app
Clean drivers get rewarded: if you have no infractions in the 12 months before your CNH expires, you can renew automatically and for free through the CNH do Brasil app or SENATRAN portal. Register with the RNPC (Registro Nacional Positivo de Condutores) to qualify.
Carta de Condução
Em vigor a partir de 1 de janeiro de 2026
Antes
Basic digital CNH
Digital CNH available through app but with limited features
Depois (2026)
Full digital CNH with QR and biometrics
Digital CNH via CNH do Brasil app includes QR code for instant validation, facial recognition access, and real-time updates from SENATRAN databases secured by ICP-Brasil digital signatures
The digital CNH is now the primary format, with the physical card becoming optional. Police can scan the QR code for instant validation, and the app uses facial recognition for security. Updates to your license status appear in real time.
Todas as alterações regulamentares provêm de agências governamentais oficiais de transportes e publicações legais. AutoviaTest é uma plataforma educacional independente e não está afiliada a nenhuma agência governamental. As regras podem estar sujeitas a alterações antes das datas de entrada em vigor.
Informação verificada pela última vez: 1 de fevereiro de 2026
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