Detran highlights exemption of CNH fees for those over 65
Elderly people already account for 8% of traffic in Pará, representing about 87,000 licensed drivers throughout the State
The proportion of elderly drivers in the Pará fleet continues to increase and in 2024 reached 87,048 licensed drivers, representing 8% of the total number of drivers with a valid National Driver's License (CNH), according to data from the State Department of Traffic (Detran).
The demand reflects the aging of the Brazilian population, which remains increasingly active, including in traffic. On the last October 1st, National Elderly Day was celebrated, a date dedicated to valuing the rights, needs, and duties of more experienced individuals in society.
According to Article 147 of the Brazilian Traffic Code (CTB), drivers aged 65 or older have specific rights related to the CNH, both for the first license and for renewal. One of the benefits is the exemption from fees for renewing the document. This is a measure aimed at facilitating elderly access to licensing services. Law No. 70/2008 reinforces this exemption, ensuring rights for drivers aged 65 or older.
The Code defines rules aimed at ensuring and protecting the rights of all citizens, and in light of the increasing elderly population in Brazil, it becomes essential to understand how the legislation applies to this group concerning the CNH.
"Elderly drivers, starting at 65 years of age, are exempt from the CNH renewal fee. Up to 70 years, they can have a validity of up to five years for their CNH after renewal. From this age, the validity drops to three years,” explains Ana Carolina Sampaio, director of driver licensing and vehicle registration at Detran.
This requirement aims to ensure that older drivers are fit to drive, ensuring their own safety and that of others, considering possible physical and cognitive limitations that may arise with age.
According to Sampaio, starting at 65 years of age, users can go to Detran headquarters or any service post and agency of the agency throughout the State to request their License. Even without prior scheduling, they are served with priority.
When renewing their CNH, elderly individuals must undergo a medical examination and biometric data collection for categories A and B. For categories C, D, and E, aimed at paid driving, it is necessary to undergo medical and psychotechnical examinations, in addition to a toxicological test.
At Detran headquarters in Belém, the presence of elderly individuals seeking service for both licensing and vehicles is constant. Retiree Maria de Fátima is 74 years old and is obtaining her first CNH. She shares that she lives alone and that having a car facilitates her daily activities.
Additionally, she has a house in the district of Mosqueiro, and her frequent trips to the island have increased her desire to drive to make transportation easier. “I have a car, but my daughter used to drive it, and she took a job in another state and left. So, I have to do everything on foot, by bus, or pay for a ride-hailing app, and I feel a great need to have my own transportation. Even at this age, I feel very young and have the courage and willingness to become a driver,” she commented.
Text: Anna Kelly Saraiva
