Brazil Rolls Out New Driving Test Rules as Parallel Parking Is Dropped for Category B

Overview

• Piauí put the Senatran practical exam manual into effect on Feb. 19, ending the parallel‑parking requirement for Category B and applying the change to all candidates already in process.
• Pernambuco has used the new model since Feb. 12, removing the baliza and ramp from the Category B test, and the state says practical‑exam fees remain unchanged.
• For Category B, the practical evaluation now consists only of driving on public roads, while the baliza remains mandatory for heavier vehicle categories C, D and E.
• Across categories, the allowable faults increased from 4 to 11 and automatic eliminatory errors were abolished, with examiners failing candidates only when they judge a lack of minimum safe driving conditions.
• Operational updates include Detran‑PI’s open digital credentialing for autonomous instructors via the CNH do Brasil app, and Detran RJ’s switch to Senatran’s national question bank with a new 20‑point passing threshold for the theory test.