Overview
- Contran’s new framework lets drivers enrolled in the Registro Nacional Positivo de Condutores (RNPC) with no infractions that add points in the 12 months before expiry access an automatic renewal pathway.
- Habilitations expired between 5 June and 8 September 2026 were prorogued and remain valid until 9 September 2026 so covered drivers can legally drive without fines until that date.
- From 9 September 2026 physical and mental aptitude exams will be required even for automatic renewals, and toxicological tests remain mandatory every 2.5 years for categories C, D and E.
- Age limits and validity periods remain: up to 10 years for drivers under 50, up to 5 years for ages 50–69 with only one automatic renewal allowed in that band, and mandatory in‑person renewal for drivers 70 and older.
- States retain operational control of fees, clinics and scheduling so practical access varies by Detran; some states already changed rules such as Rio de Janeiro expanding fee exemptions to drivers aged 60 and up.