Renewing your driver's license
Renewing your driver's license is mandatory if you want to continue driving after the document expires.
The validity of the license varies according to the driver's age and the results of the required medical tests.
Driver's license expiration date
According to the Brazilian Traffic Code (CTB), updated by the Law 14.071/2020The validity of the CNH follows the following criteria:
- 10 years for drivers under the age of 50;
- 5 years for drivers aged between 50 and 69;
- 3 years for drivers aged 70 and over.
The time limit can be reduced at the doctor's discretion if conditions are detected that require more frequent reassessment of the driver's physical and mental fitness.
How to renew your driver's license
The renewal process can vary according to the State Traffic Department (Detran) in each state, but usually includes:
- Renewal request on the corresponding Detran website.
- Payment of the fee renewal.
- Scheduling mandatory examssuch as the medical examination of physical and mental fitness.
- Psychological examinationif necessary (compulsory for paid drivers).
- In some cases, updating registration data.
After passing the exams and clearing the payment, the new CNH is issued. You can opt for the physical document, the Digital CNH or both.
Definitive CNH
The definitive CNH is the document issued after the period of Permission to Drive (PPD). When a driver passes the licensing process, they initially receive a provisional license, which is valid for one year. After this period, it is possible to apply for a definitive license, as long as the driver meets the legal requirements.
Requirements to Obtain a Permanent Driver's License
To apply for a permanent driver's license, the driver must:
- Have completed the 12-month period with the PPD.
- Not having committed any serious or very serious infringement.
- No repeat offenses averages in the period.
- Have your documentation up to date in the Detran system.
If the driver has committed infractions that prevent him or her from being issued with a permanent license, he or she will have to restart the entire licensing process, including classes and exams.
How to apply for a permanent driver's license
- Visit the Detran of your state.
- Log in with your registration details (in some states, you need to log in with an account). gov.br).
- Request issuance of the definitive CNH.
- Pay the corresponding fee (if applicable).
- Wait for the document to be processed and released.
In many states, the process is completely digital. The definitive CNH can be sent by post or made available directly at Digital Traffic License.
Digital CNH vs. Physical CNH: Which one to use?
Both have the same legal validity. The choice between the digital and printed versions depends on the driver's preference. However, it is important to keep the application up to date and the cell phone charged when driving with only the Digital CNH.
During inspections, the traffic officer may ask for the document. If the driver is unable to produce their CNH, whether physical or digital, they may be fined for not carrying the mandatory document, even if they are qualified.
Conclusion
With the evolution of digital services, the process of obtaining and maintaining a driver's license has become simpler and more accessible. A Digital CNH offers more practicality to the driver, while the renovation and obtaining a permanent driver's license follow well-defined criteria aimed at traffic safety.
Keeping your driver's license up to date is a driver's responsibility. That's why it's important to keep up with the deadlines, use the digital channels available and keep your data up to date with Detran.
