Brazil Overhauls Driver’s License Rules, Eliminating Mandatory Driving School
A new initiative launched by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva aims to modernize and reduce the cost of obtaining a driver’s license in Brazil, dispensing with long-held requirements for conventional driving school instruction.
Brasília – President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (PT) launched new regulations for the National Driving License (CNH) on Tuesday, December 12th, substantially altering the process for aspiring drivers.The changes, which took effect this week, include the elimination of mandatory driving school classes and the introduction of a new CNH application.The launch ceremony, held at the Palácio do Planalto at 10 am, was also attended by Minister of Transport, Renan Filho.
The core of the reform centers on increased accessibility and affordability. The new application will provide access to study materials for traffic rules, allowing individuals to prepare for the required theoretical and practical exams without enrolling in a driving school. A resolution from the national Traffic Council (contran) detailing the new rules was published in the Official Gazette of the Union on Tuesday.
Under the revised system, both theoretical and practical instruction can now be provided by independent instructors who have passed a federal government-administered test. However, traditional driving schools will remain an option for those who prefer that route.
Perhaps the most meaningful change is the removal of the previous requirements of 45 hours of theoretical classes and 20 hours of practical classes at driving schools for categories A (motorcycles, scooters, mopeds, and tricycles) and B (most passenger cars, trucks, and utility vehicles). Despite this shift, both theoretical and practical tests remain mandatory components of the licensing process.
According to the Ministry of Cities, the initiative is expected to reduce the cost of obtaining a driver’s license by up to 80%.”The free and digital theoretical course makes practical classes more flexible and allows monitoring by independent instructors,” a senior official stated.
Key Changes to the CNH Process
Here’s a breakdown of the most important updates:
- Opening of the Process: Applications can now be initiated through the Ministry of Transport website or via the Digital Traffic Card (CDT) application.
- Theoretical Classes: The Ministry of Transport will provide all theoretical content online, free of charge. Individuals can still opt for in-person instruction at driving schools or accredited institutions.
- Practical Classes: The required practical class hours have been reduced from 20 to just two hours. Candidates can choose between traditional driving schools, independent instructors accredited by Detrans, or personalized preparation. Importantly, the use of a personal vehicle is now permitted for practical lessons.
- Evidence: Despite the changes to instruction, candidates must still pass both theoretical and practical tests. Additional mandatory steps, such as biometric data collection and medical examinations, will continue to be conducted in person at Detran offices.
- Instructors: Independent instructors will be authorized and supervised by state bodies,adhering to nationally standardized criteria. Their identification and control will be integrated into the Digital Traffic card system.
The move represents a significant shift in how Brazilians obtain their driver’s licenses, prioritizing flexibility and cost-effectiveness while maintaining safety standards through continued testing and oversight. .
