Dozens of cars from Rio’s driving schools occupied Avenida Presidente Vargas, in the city centre, on Tuesday morning, in protest against the decision approved by the National Traffic Council (Contran) on Monday. The event brings together vehicles from different training centres, which drive towards the central axis of the road to compete for changes in the process of obtaining a national driving license (CNH).
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The decision – which was approved unanimously – eliminates the obligation to attend driving schools to obtain your first licence. The rule comes into force once it is published in the Official Journal of the Union (DOU).
The new decision directly affects the sector because it abolishes mandatory registration, reduces the minimum number of practical classes from 20 to just two hours and creates competition with independent trainers certified by Detrans. Moreover, the free and digital theory course offered by the Department of Transport can reduce the demand for in-person teaching.
What changes with the new decision?
In addition to the expiration of the driving school requirement, Contran’s approved text states the following:
Free and digital theoretical course
The Department of Transport will make all theoretical content available online for free. Those who prefer can continue studying in person at driving schools or accredited institutions.
The minimum mandatory workload decreases from 20 hours of study to just two hours. After that, the candidate will be able to choose how to prepare:
- Traditional driving schools
- Detrans certified independent trainers
- Personal preparations according to the needs of each student
Independent coaches will be licensed and supervised by Detrans, according to uniform standards. The identification and control of these professionals will be integrated into the CDT.
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A more digital and less bureaucratic process
The qualification process can be opened:
- Via the Ministry of Transport website
- Through the digital pass card
The candidate will only need to attend the mandatory steps in person, such as biometrics collection and medical examination. Everything else can be done digitally.
Professional drivers will also benefit
Classes C, D and E will have a more modern process, with more training options, less bureaucracy and greater flexibility for those who need a driver’s license to work.
Cost reduction for candidates
According to the Ministry of Transport, the changes expand the forms of preparation and could reduce the total cost of the CNH by up to 80%.
The volume cites figures from the National Traffic Secretariat (Senatran):
- 20 million Brazilians drive without a license
- 30 million are old enough to obtain their driver’s license, but have not yet done so, mainly due to the cost, which can reach R$5,000.