Overview
- A law sanctioned in June 2026 reinstated the mandatory aptidão física e mental medical exam for CNH renewals that had been intended to be waived for automatic renewals of low‑risk drivers.
- The law bars drivers aged 70 and over from automatic renewal and restricts those aged 50–69 to a single use of the automatic‑renewal mechanism, forcing more frequent in‑person checks for older motorists.
- Digital measures and free federal theory courses have produced large savings and uptake: São Paulo reported R$51.3 million saved from digital‑only CNHs, Bahia about R$253.9 million, and the federal government cited roughly R$1 billion saved among automatic‑renewal beneficiaries by March 2026.
- State Detrans are issuing guidance and urging drivers to check status in the CNH app or Gov.br, verify RNPC enrollment, clear points or fines, and schedule required medical, psychological or toxicológico tests when indicated.
- The reforms began with MP 1.327/2025 to simplify renewals for 'good drivers' and combine digital convenience with stricter health oversight; drivers must plan renewals carefully to avoid fines, loss of the automatic option, or vehicle retention for expired CNHs.