Contran Approves Overhaul Ending Mandatory Driving-School Classes for Brazil’s Driver’s License

Overview

• The resolution was approved unanimously on Dec. 1 and takes effect only after it is published in the federal register.
• Theoretical class hours are eliminated, the Transport Ministry will offer a free online course, and candidates can open the process via the ministry website or the CDT app.
• Mandatory practice falls from 20 hours to 2, with training allowed through accredited independent instructors or autoescolas and the option to use a private vehicle that meets CTB rules.
• The government estimates up to an 80% drop in total CNH costs and cites roughly 20 million unlicensed drivers and 30 million eligible people without a license.
• Autoescola groups warn of closures and job losses as state Detrans prepare accreditation and short adaptation periods, the prior 12‑month completion deadline is removed, and processes for categories C, D and E are simplified with toxicology tests preserved.