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© 2016 Dwellworks
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Discovering Brazil
Driving
Driving in Brazil can be the best way to access some of the more remote areas of the
country, and also reach parts that are not well connected by train or bus services. Traffic
signals in Brazil are similar to the U.S. and Europe, but there is a large difference in driving
etiquette and style. Strictly following traffic laws is not always common practice, and drivers
are often very aggressive and opportunistic.
It is also typical for mopeds and motor cycles to weave around both moving, and non-moving
traffic; so keep all limbs inside of the car at all times and pay close attention to your mirrors.
Driving in a different country can be daunting so please read the following carefully, and ask
your Dwellworks Consultant for any specific support you might need.
Rules and Regulations
Driving legislation in Brazil is federal and therefore applies to each individual state. These
are the standard practices to follow:
Drive on the right side of the road, overtake on the left
The legal minimum age for driving cars and motorcycles is 18 years-old
The use of a mobile telephone is not allowed
In the event of an accident, contact the national emergency telephone number, Tel: 193
It is mandatory to wear a seat belt (
cinto de segurança
) including in the back seats if
belts are fitted. If a child is too small to use a seatbelt, a child safety seat must be
fitted and used at all times
At traffic islands/roundabouts the vehicle on the roundabout yields to vehicles
entering the roundabout system (This is not the case at other junctions, and it is not
always respected, so use caution when entering a roundabout)
Park in the direction of traffic flow, not facing it
Right turns at red lights are prohibited unless indicated by a
livre a direita
(free to turn
right) sign
Signaling when changing
lanes or making turns is
mandatory
It is an offense for a person
to drive wearing flip flops or
with their elbow resting on
the windowsill, and/or
protruding from the vehicle
Keeping both hands on the
wheel is mandatory
Police radar is widely used
in many cities and roads.
Fines are sent to the
address provided when
licensing a vehicle