Brazil Driver License

$150.00

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Brazil Driving License (CNH) – Complete Guide for Drivers and Expats

The Brazilian driving license, officially called the Carteira Nacional de Habilitação (CNH), is a government-issued document that authorizes individuals to drive motor vehicles in Brazil. It serves as both a driver’s license and a primary form of identification nationwide.

Whether you’re a Brazilian citizen or a foreigner looking to drive legally in Brazil, here’s everything you need to know about obtaining, renewing, and using a Brazil driving license.

What is the CNH?

The CNH is issued by the Departamento Estadual de Trânsito (DETRAN) in each state. It contains:

Full name and photo
CPF number
License number and categories
Expiry date
Digital signature and biometric data
QR code for verification

The CNH is valid across the entire country and accepted internationally in countries that recognize national or international permits.

License Categories in Brazil

Brazilian licenses are classified by the types of vehicles the driver is authorized to operate:

Category A – Motorcycles
Category B – Passenger cars (up to 8 seats, max 3.5 tons)
Category C – Trucks and cargo vehicles over 3.5 tons
Category D – Passenger vehicles with more than 8 seats (buses, vans)
Category E – Vehicles with trailers or semi-trailers

You can also have combined licenses (e.g., AB) if you’re qualified for both cars and motorcycles.

Who Can Get a CNH?

You must:

Be at least 18 years old
Be literate (able to read and write in Portuguese)
Have a valid CPF (Brazilian taxpayer ID)
Pass a medical and psychological evaluation
Complete an accredited driving course

How to Get a Driving License in Brazil

Register at DETRAN (state-level traffic department)
Medical and psychological exams at authorized clinics
Complete driving school training, which includes:
- 45 hours of classroom theory
- 20 hours of practical driving lessons
Pass the theory test
Pass the practical (road) test
Receive your provisional CNH (Permissão para Dirigir)

The provisional license is valid for 1 year. If no serious violations occur, it is automatically upgraded to the permanent CNH (valid for 10 years if under 50).

Required Documents

Valid ID or birth certificate
CPF number
Proof of residence
Passport and visa/residency permit (for foreigners)
Payment receipts for exams and DETRAN fees

Validity and Renewal

Up to 10 years if you’re under 50
5 years for ages 50–69
3 years for 70 and older
Renewal requires a new medical exam and can be done online or at DETRAN offices

Foreigners and Driving in Brazil

Tourists:

May drive with a foreign driver’s license + International Driving Permit (IDP) for up to 180 days after entry.

Residents:

Must convert their foreign license to a Brazilian CNH within 180 days.
Some countries (e.g., Portugal, Spain, Italy) have reciprocity agreements, allowing conversion without exams.
Others may require theory and/or driving tests.

Documents for conversion:

Foreign license (original + official translation)
Valid passport and visa/residence permit
CPF
Medical and psychological evaluation results
DETRAN application form

Digital CNH (CNH Digital)

Brazil offers a digital version of the license via the “Carteira Digital de Trânsito” app. It allows drivers to carry a valid license on their smartphone and provides access to vehicle documents, fines, and recall alerts.

Penalties and Suspension

Brazil uses a point system for traffic violations:

Points range from 3 to 7 per infraction
Accumulating 20+ points in 12 months can lead to license suspension
Drivers must complete a re-education course to recover a suspended license

Conclusion

The Brazil CNH is more than a driving license—it’s a secure and widely accepted ID that integrates with Brazil’s digital services. Whether you’re applying for your first license, converting a foreign one, or renewing, understanding the process can help you stay legal and safe on Brazilian roads.

For more details or to start your application, visit your state’s DETRAN website (e.g., www.detran.sp.gov.br for São Paulo).