Older people like Lima Duarte do not lose their right to drive in Brazil due to age, but they have to renew it more frequently
At the beginning of the month, the actor Lima Duarte was involved in a traffic accident, colliding his car with a motorcycle. The incident took place in Sao Paulo and, in a note sent by the artist’s counseling centre, he declared that “after the collision, he immediately provided the necessary assistance to the motorcyclist”.
After the accident, Lima has been criticized and has used social media to defend himself. Many followers have raised the debate as to whether he was an active pilot at the age of 92. In a publication, the plaintiff said that his national driver’s license (CNH) is valid and that the exams required by law are up to date.
The episode involving the actor has raised a debate on the web: how does the CNH renewal for the elderly work? Here is some information to clarify the main doubts:
Can senior citizens drive in Brazil?
According to the Brazilian Highway Code (CTB), implemented by Law No. 9.503 and in force since 1997, there is no age limit for driving. However, for the elderly, the need to renew the CNH becomes more frequent.
How does the CNH renewal for seniors work?
In 2021, Law nº 14.071/2020 came into force and it was established that the qualification must be renewed with the following periodicity:
- For those under the age of 49: the CNH must be renewed every 10 years;
- For those aged between 50 and 69: every 5 years;
- For over 70s: every 3 years.
What exams are needed?
Before renewing CNH, senior citizens are required to undergo medical examinations to evaluate their health conditions. This list includes vision, hearing, and psychometric tests (which measure a person’s mental and cognitive abilities). Although they are mandatory tests for all ages, they are more stringent in the case of the elderly and if the expert observes any changes, he may request other tests.
If the older person has a chronic illness or physical disability, additional tests, such as a heart or neurological exam, may be needed. In the event of failure in the exams, the elderly person may have the CNH suspended and it will be necessary to undergo medical treatment in order to be able to renew it again.
Is CNH renewal for seniors free?
Everyone usually pays a fee to renew CNH, but the amount varies depending on where the senior lives. In São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, for example, the renewal fee is exempt for people over the age of 65.
You can ask a question on the Denran website in your state and check if there is an age exemption option.
How to renew CNH for the elderly?
The CNH renewal process may vary from state to state. And, to start the procedure, you need to make an appointment at one of the Detran units with the following documents in hand:
- Identification document with photo and signature;
- CNH;
- FCP;
- Proof of address.
If the State in which the elderly person resides does not have the possibility of exemption from the collection tax, it is also necessary to bring proof of payment.
Source: Terra
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
