Brazil Overhauls Driving Test as New National Manual Drops Standalone Parallel Parking

Overview

• Senatran published the Brazilian Manual of Driving Exams on Feb. 1, ending the baliza as a separate eliminatory stage and folding parking assessment into the on‑road route.
• The new evaluation uses CTB‑based points — 1 (minor), 2 (moderate), 4 (serious), 6 (very serious) — with failure above 10 points and no more automatic eliminatory faults.
• State Detrans in Rio de Janeiro, Ceará, Paraíba and Rio Grande do Norte announced implementation or transition plans, including examiner requalification and system updates through February.
• The rules authorize exams in vehicles with manual or automatic transmissions, allow candidate‑provided cars under safety conditions, and are mandatory nationwide with possible sanctions or Contran intervention for noncompliance.
• The changes follow broader CNH do Brasil reforms that cut mandatory classes and offered free theory content, driving applications to about 1.7 million in January 2026 and 298,500 licenses issued, while experts warn of reduced preparedness and potential congestion and São Paulo saw only a 2% rise in approvals in the first week without baliza.