PERGUNTAS FREQUENTES

1. What are the requirements to get a Brazilian driving license?

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old. 

• Medical Examination: You must pass a medical exam, including a vision test. 

• Residency: You must be a Brazilian citizen or a foreigner with permanent residency in Brazil. 

• Completion of a Driving School Course: You need to complete a mandatory theory and practical driving course at an accredited driving school. 

• Theoretical and Practical Exams: You must pass both theoretical and practical exams. 

2. How long does it take to get a driving license in Brazil?

• The entire process typically takes around 3 to 6 months. This includes enrolling in driving school, completing the theoretical and practical lessons, passing the exams, and waiting for the provisional license (Permissão para Dirigir). 

3. How much does it cost to get a Brazilian driving license?

• The cost varies by state and driving school, but on average, the total cost can range from BRL 1,500 to BRL 2,500. This includes fees for driving school, medical exams, tests, and issuance of the license. 

4. Can I drive in Brazil with a foreign driver’s license?

• If you’re a tourist or visiting Brazil, you can drive with your foreign license for up to 180 days. However, if you’re a resident in Brazil, you must exchange your foreign license for a Brazilian CNH. The process for exchanging a foreign license depends on the country you’re from and may include additional tests. 

5. How do I exchange a foreign license for a Brazilian CNH?

• Foreign residents can exchange their valid foreign driving licenses for a Brazilian CNH, depending on whether Brazil has a reciprocity agreement with their country. In many cases, you may not need to take the full driving test, but you will need to:  

• Submit the required documentation. 

• Pass a medical exam. 

• Take a written traffic law test in some cases. 

• Pay applicable fees. 

6. What is the “Permissão para Dirigir” (PPD)?

• The Permissão para Dirigir (PPD) is a provisional driving license issued after you pass the theory and practical exams. You must hold this provisional license for one year without committing serious traffic violations before you can apply for the full CNH (Carteira Nacional de Habilitação). 

7. What is the difference between a provisional license (PPD) and a full CNH?

• The PPD is a temporary license issued after passing the exams, with restrictions (e.g., no major traffic violations for one year). A full CNH is granted once you’ve held the provisional license for one year without violations, and you no longer have the restrictions. 

8. Can I drive in Brazil with an International Driver’s Permit (IDP)?

• An International Driver’s Permit (IDP) is valid for driving in Brazil only for a limited period (usually up to 180 days). If you plan to stay longer or become a resident, you’ll need to exchange your foreign license for a Brazilian CNH. 

9. What documents do I need to get a Brazilian driving license?

• Proof of Identity: Passport, national ID card, or permanent residency card. 

• Proof of Address in Brazil: Utility bills, rental contracts, etc. 

• CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas): Brazilian tax identification number. 

• Proof of Medical Exam: Results of the medical exam. 

• Certificate from Driving School: Confirmation that you have completed the necessary theory and practical training. 

• Recent Photo: For the license. 

10. How can I prepare for the driving test in Brazil?

• Study the Brazilian Traffic Code: Focus on road signs, traffic laws, and defensive driving. 

• Take Driving School Classes: Enroll in an accredited driving school to get the proper theoretical and practical training. 

• Practice Driving: Spend as much time as possible behind the wheel with an instructor or licensed driver before the practical test. 

11. How many questions are on the theoretical exam?

• The theoretical exam typically consists of 30 questions. You need to answer at least 70% of the questions correctly to pass. 

12. What happens if I fail the theoretical or practical exam?

• If you fail the theoretical exam, you can retake it after a few days or weeks, depending on the state’s policy. If you fail the practical exam, you can schedule another test after a brief waiting period. Additional fees may apply for retesting. 

13. What traffic violations can get my provisional license suspended?

• Serious violations during the PPD period (such as DUI, speeding, or reckless driving) can lead to the suspension of your provisional license. If you accumulate 20 points or more on your driving record, your license may be revoked or suspended. 

14. Can I renew my CNH?

• Yes, you can renew your CNH every 5 years for drivers under the age of 50. For drivers over 50, the renewal period is 3 years. Renewal requires a medical examination and payment of fees. 

15. What is the penalty for driving without a CNH in Brazil?

• Driving without a CNH in Brazil is considered a serious violation and can result in a fine, vehicle impoundment, and possible legal consequences. 

16. Are there any specific driving rules in Brazil that I should know about?

• Seat Belts: Everyone in the vehicle must wear a seatbelt. 

• Cell Phones: Use of a cell phone while driving is illegal unless you use a hands-free device. 

• Drinking and Driving: Brazil has strict DUI laws. The legal alcohol limit for drivers is zero tolerance for most drivers. 

• Speed Limits: Speed limits vary depending on the type of road and location. Be sure to obey posted speed limit signs. 

17. How long is the validity of a Brazilian CNH?

• The validity of the CNH is 5 years for drivers under 50 years old. For drivers over 50, it is valid for 3 years. After the validity period, you must renew your CNH. 

18. Can I drive in Brazil with a foreigner’s license if I’m visiting?

• Yes, foreign tourists can use their foreign driving licenses or an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) to drive in Brazil for up to 180 days. 

19. How do I find a driving school in Brazil?

• You can search for accredited driving schools (autoescola) online or ask for recommendations from locals. Make sure the driving school is registered with the Detran (Department of Transit). 

20. How do I report changes to my CNH?

• You can report changes (such as a change of address or name) to your Detran office or through their online services, depending on the state.