Brazil Implements Major Reforms to National Driver's License System to Reward Safe Drivers and Cut Costs

The Brazilian government has enacted a significant provisional measure reforming the National Driver's License (CNH) system, aimed at modernizing processes, reducing costs, and promoting safer driving habits. Signed by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Transport Minister Renan Filho, Provisional Measure No. 1,327/2025 introduces provisions for automatic renewal of the CNH for drivers with a good driving record, simplified medical exam requirements, and options for digital or physical licenses.

Under the new rules, drivers who have no traffic infractions in the past 12 months and are registered in the National Positive Drivers Registry (RNPC) can renew their licenses automatically without needing to undergo in-person exams or pay additional fees. However, this benefit excludes drivers aged 70 and older and those with reduced validity periods based on medical recommendations.

To further ease the licensing process and reduce expenses, the government has standardized the fees for mandatory medical and psychological exams, expecting an average cost reduction of 40%. Any licensed medical professional can now perform these exams, aiming to eliminate previous overcharges and bureaucratic hurdles.

The CNH validity periods remain consistent with age: 10 years for drivers under 50, 5 years for those aged 50 to 69, and 3 years for drivers 70 and older, with adjustments allowed following medical advice. The physical CNH card printing is now optional, providing drivers the choice between physical and digital licenses, or both.

These reforms address the high prevalence of informal driving, particularly among motorcyclists, where in some states over half lack valid licenses. The government emphasizes that previous requirements exceeded international standards and did not demonstrably reduce accidents. The new framework, aligned with the CNH do Brasil program, aims to make the licensing process more democratic, efficient, and safer for all road users.

Transport Minister Renan Filho stated, 'The good driver will now be recognized and have their life facilitated,' highlighting the government's commitment to incentivizing responsible driving. The initiative reflects a broad effort to enhance Brazil's traffic system by simplifying procedures, cutting bureaucracy, and better protecting drivers and the public.