🇧🇷 Brazil
Driving Schools in Rio de Janeiro
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Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Brazil
Driving Rules & Facts
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.
How to Get Your Driving License in Brazil
Everything you need to know about enrolling in a driving school and getting your B license in Brazil.
Typical Cost
R$2,000–R$4,000
Total driving school cost including lessons and materials
Prices vary by school, location, and number of lessons needed.
Typical Lessons Needed
~25
50-minute lessons on average
Mandatory Theory Hours
—
No mandatory hours. You can study independently and take the exam when ready.
Mandatory Practical Hours
—
No mandatory hours. Your instructor will recommend how many lessons you need.
License Requirements in Brazil
Theory Test Languages
The DETRAN theory test is available in these languages:
Tips for Choosing a Driving School in Rio de Janeiro
- Compare prices from at least 3 schools before enrolling. The cheapest option is not always the best — check what is included in the package.
- Ask schools about their pass rates. A higher pass rate often indicates better instruction quality.
- If Brazil's official language is not your first language, ask if the school offers instruction or materials in your language.
Source: Departamento Estadual de Trânsito · Last updated: 2026-03-15
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