Overview

• President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva authorized the Transport Ministry to advance the plan, and the consultation opened Oct. 2 on the Participa + Brasil platform for 30 days.
• The draft applies initially to CNH categories A and B, retaining mandatory state theory and road tests while allowing preparation via autoescolas, accredited autonomous instructors, distance learning, or digital content from Senatran.
• The proposal contemplates dispensing minimum class requirements, including the current 20 hours of practical lessons, with government estimates of up to 70%–80% cost reductions from average totals of roughly R$3,000–R$4,000.
• After the consultation, the measure goes to Contran for analysis and potential resolution, with officials indicating possible implementation as early as November if approved.
• Autoescola representatives and some Detran bodies oppose the move, warning of business closures (reports cite about 15,000 firms) and urging broader debate, as the government cites tens of millions driving without a CNH as a key rationale.