Brazil updates CNH driving exam and renewal rules for 2026

New regulations for obtaining and renewing the National Driver's License (CNH) in Brazil will take effect in 2026. According to guidelines from the National Traffic Council (Contran) and the National Traffic Secretariat (Senatran), the practical driving exam will transition to a scoring system. Candidates can accumulate up to 10 points based on the severity of errors: 1 point for light faults, 2 for medium, 4 for serious, and 6 for very serious faults. Certain errors will no longer result in automatic failure unless they compromise safety or vehicle control.

Additionally, the parallel parking maneuver (baliza) will no longer be a standalone mandatory stage but will instead be evaluated as part of the overall driving route. The theoretical exam requires a minimum of 20 correct answers out of 30.

Regarding license renewal, drivers are advised to ensure their CPF (Individual Taxpayer Registry) status is regular. While there is no confirmed national rule stating that an irregular CPF automatically blocks CNH renewal, data inconsistencies may cause administrative delays at state traffic departments (Detrans). Drivers should verify specific requirements with their local Detran.