Brazil Launches Automatic, Free License Renewals as Portugal Recognizes Brazilian CNH

Overview

• Starting Jan. 9, drivers with no infractions in the previous 12 months will have their CNH renewed automatically at no cost through the Senatran system, with updates reflected in the CNH Digital app.
• Eligibility requires enrollment in the National Positive Registry of Drivers (RNPC); those aged 70 or older and drivers with medically reduced validity are excluded, and drivers 50–69 can use the benefit once.
• The measure applies retroactively to Dec. 10, 2025, covering licenses that expired from that date onward for those who qualify.
• The Transport Ministry says about 371,000 drivers are eligible in the first month, with projected savings of roughly R$120 million; a physical card remains optional and subject to a standard issuance fee at Detran.
• Portugal’s Jan. 7 decree signed by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa recognizes valid Brazilian CNHs in categories A and B for drivers under 60, with reciprocity for Portuguese licenses and Portuguese law treating most driving without a valid license as an administrative offense.