Brazil’s National Driver’s License—often referred to by the Portuguese acronym CNH—is getting a new format starting today (Jun 1). According to national traffic authorities, the document is being brought “up to date” and in compliance with legal requirements, and may now include drivers’ chosen name as well as the names of foster parents.
An international code used in passports has also been incorporated, allowing drivers to board at self-service terminals in Brazilian airports. As information will be printed in English and Spanish in addition to Portuguese, the document will be easier to use overseas.
The revamp had been made official by traffic authorities in December 2021.
Brazilians do not have to replace their current driver’s license. The new model will be implemented gradually as new documents are issued.
As stipulated in the resolution—which details the new safety features as well as its layout—the new card will display a chart listing the vehicle types the driver is allowed to drive, as well as information about paid driving work and medical restrictions.
Besides green, the new document should feature yellow, as well as novel graphic elements that make forgery and fraud more difficult. Also included is a QR Code, and the document may be issued in printed form, online, or both.
