Driving Licence in Brazil

If you already have a driving licence, you can drive with it in Brazil during 6 months and then you will have to switch it for a Brazilian driving licence.

If you do not hold a driving licence, you can easily pass the exam in Brazil, and Speak Portuguese Brazil will explain you how to do it step by step.

One of the biggest advantages of the Brazilian driving licence is the price: around R$1500 – 1800, including theoretical and practical lessons, theoretical and practical exams, medical examinations and transportation to the exam centre.

Bureaucratic formalities to obtain your driving licence in Brazil

- Find a driving school and present your:

            > RNE + CPF

            > Proof of residence dated within the past three months

- Appointment at Detran (Brazilian public transport service) for an alphabetisation test,

- Appointment for a physical examination at a clinic

The driving school will make the appointments for you.

From theory to practice: driving lessons in Brazil

45h of theoretical lessons are mandatory to pass the theoretical test.

25h of driving lessons are mandatory to attempt the practical test (note that even if you are not ready, nothing prevents you from passing the exam).

It is possible that the driving school will propose you to pay a little bit more to “be sure” to pass the test. It is nothing less than corruption. Do not accept! If you feel ready, there is no reason for you to fail the test.

You passed the test? Congratulations! At first you will receive the PPD (permissão para dirigir) which is a temporary driving licence. You will receive the definitive one called the CNH a year later.

Tips to circulate well in Brazil and without legal issues

Brazil has a zero tolerance for alcohol, sentence of imprisonment are issued from 6 months to 2 years. Do not drink and drive.

Maximum allowed speed is 120km/h on the highway and 90km/h on country side road.

Have a safe ride.