The federal government updated the rules for the National Driver's License on Tuesday, launching the CNH do Brasil app to replace the Digital Transit Card. The change also regulates autonomous traffic instructors, eliminating the need for driving schools for practical lessons. Good drivers will also get free CNH renewals.
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva signed updates to CNH rules during a ceremony at the Palácio do Planalto. The new CNH do Brasil app, developed by Serpro, replaces the CDT and allows access via Gov.br account on iOS devices (version 10 or higher) and Android (4.0.3 or higher). Digital documents, such as the CNH and CRLV, feature a QR Code for authentication and an encrypted digital signature, ensuring legal validity. Internet connection is required only to add documents, and PDFs can be generated for sharing, with use limited to one device.
Key features include starting the CNH application process with stage notifications, access to the theoretical course via EAD platform, and issuance of the LADV if the exam is passed. The Contran reduced practical training hours from 20 to 2 class hours, while keeping mandatory steps like biometrics and medical exams.
The changes also permit autonomous traffic instructors to conduct practical lessons without driving schools, as advocated by the Ministry of Transport under Renan Filho. Requirements are at least 21 years old, completed high school, a license for at least two years in the intended category, and no serious infractions in the last 12 months. The government provides a free course with three modules and 27 lessons. After passing a Detran test, professionals receive credentials and are added to a database accessible on the ministry's website, which already lists 208,000 accredited instructors.
Instructors must log lessons in the system, use a marked vehicle, and carry documents like CNH and credentials during sessions. Students check eligibility on the government platform.
Finally, a provisional measure, not yet published in the DOU, provides automatic and free CNH renewal for drivers with no infraction points in the previous year. Its validity requires congressional approval. Physical documents remain valid.