Detran-RJ permits automatic vehicles for driver's license exams

The Rio de Janeiro State Transit Department (Detran-RJ) has begun allowing driver's license candidates to use automatic transmission vehicles for both practical lessons and driving exams. This change, effective as of Monday (21), follows Resolution No. 1.020/2025 from the National Traffic Council (Contran).

Under the new rules, Driver Training Centers (CFCs) can now register automatic vehicles for use in the licensing process. Candidates may choose between automatic or manual vehicles depending on the availability at their chosen driving school. Those who complete their training and exams in an automatic car will not be required to take manual driving lessons, and their driver's licenses will not feature any special distinction regarding transmission type.

This update follows a previous change in June that eliminated the requirement for the parallel parking maneuver (baliza) during practical exams in the state. Detran-RJ noted that the implementation of these federal resolutions is being handled gradually to allow for operational adjustments to their digital testing and facial recognition systems.