Driving Schools in Brazil

Drive on the Right — Brazil uses right-hand traffic. Overtake on the left. On multi-lane roads, use the right lane for slower traffic. On rodovias, keep right except when overtaking.

Lei Seca (Zero BAC) — Zero tolerance (0.00% BAC) for all drivers since 2012. Any detectable alcohol: R$2,934.70 fine + 12-month licence suspension. BAC ≥0.06%: criminal offence with up to 3 years detention. Refusing a breathalyser carries the same administrative penalty.

Mandatory Headlights on Rodovias — Headlights must be on at all times when driving on rodovias (highways outside urban areas), even during daylight. Medium infraction (R$130.16, 4 points). Applies to all vehicle types.

Points System (Pontuação) — Infractions add 3–7 points. Suspension thresholds are severity-based: 20 points if 2+ gravíssima infractions, 30 points if 1 gravíssima, 40 points if no gravíssima within 12 months. Professional drivers (EAR): 40 points regardless. Points reset annually per Lei 14.071/2020.

Seatbelts & Child Restraints — Seatbelts mandatory for all occupants (front and rear). Children under 10 must use appropriate child restraints. Children under 1: rear-facing seat. 1–4 years: forward-facing seat. 4–7.5: booster. 7.5–10: rear seatbelt. Very serious infraction.

Rodizío (Licence Plate Rotation) — In São Paulo and some cities, vehicles are restricted from driving on certain days based on the last digit of their licence plate. Fines apply for violations. Check local rodizío rules when driving in major cities.