The beginning of the year brings important obligations for car owners in Brazil, such as the payment of IPVA.
The annual license and the issuance of the CRLV-e. In this article, we explain clearly and objectively what these taxes and documents are, how and when to pay them and what will change in 2025.
What is IPVA?
IPVA (Imposto sobre a Propriedade de Veículos Automotores) is a state tax levied annually. It is compulsory for all vehicle owners, except for some who are exempt due to the age of the car or other rules specific to each state.
The value of the IPVA varies according to
- The state where the vehicle is registered;
- The model, make and year of the vehicle;
- The rate set by the state government (usually between 1% and 4% of the vehicle's value).
How to pay IPVA 2025
IPVA can be paid in two ways:
- One-off feeusually at a discount;
- Installmentsusually in up to 3 installments (some states offer more installments).
The deadlines and amounts should be consulted on the Detran website or the Finance Department of your state. Payment can be made at banks, lottery shops or via a banking app, using the vehicle's Renavam number.
What is annual licensing?
Licensing is the fee charged annually to allow the vehicle to be legally driven. It is different from the IPVA and can only be done after all the debts linked to the vehicle have been paid: IPVA, fines and DPVAT insurance (when charged).
If the license is not up to date, the vehicle is considered irregular and can be fined, impounded and the driver can receive points on their driver's license.
How to apply for a 2025 license
After paying off all the vehicle's debts, the owner can license it directly:
- On the Detran website in your state;
- Official apps such as CDT (Digital Transit Card);
- Sometimes in person at Detran units or authorized brokers.
The license fee varies from state to state and the amount should be consulted on the official Detran website.
CRLV-e: the digital vehicle document
Since 2021, the Vehicle Registration and Licensing Certificate has been digital, called a CRLV-e. It replaces the version printed on paper currency and has the same legal validity.
Once the license has been paid, the CRLV-e is issued automatically. It can be accessed:
- Through the app Digital Transit Card (CDT);
- On the Detran website, with the option to download it as a PDF;
- It can also be printed on plain paper, if desired.
It is not compulsory to carry the printed CRLV-e, as long as the driver has the digital document accessible on their cell phone.
Deadlines and calendar 2025
Each Brazilian state has its own IPVA and licensing deadlines. In general, the deadlines follow the end of the vehicle's license plate. For example:
- Final 1: due in January;
- Final 2: February;
- And so on.
It is essential to follow the official Detran website in your state so as not to miss the deadlines and avoid fines or interest.
Consequences of non-payment
Failure to pay the IPVA or license the vehicle can have serious consequences, such as:
- Fine for a very serious infraction;
- 7 points on the driver's license;
- Seizure of the vehicle;
- Interest and registration as an active debt.
In addition, irregular vehicles cannot be sold, transferred or financed.
Tips for getting organized
- Schedule yourselfIPVA and Licensing: note the due dates for IPVA and Licensing in your calendar.
- Use official appsThe CDT app facilitates access to the CRLV-e and other documents.
- Check debts frequentlycheck if there are any fines or pending issues with Detran.
