The National Driver's License (CNH) is an essential document for anyone wishing to drive motor vehicles in Brazil.
However, for many low-income people, obtaining a driver's license can be a challenge due to the high costs involved in the process.
Fortunately, the CNH Social program was created with the aim of providing the opportunity for free licensing for these individuals.
In this article, we will cover in detail how the Social Driver's License works, who is entitled to participate, the benefits that do not count towards income, the participating states, as well as the necessary documents and the step-by-step guide to enrolling in the program.
How does the Social CNH work?
CNH Social is a program that offers the possibility of obtaining a free National Driver's License for low-income people.
Created by the National Traffic Department (DENATRAN), in partnership with state traffic agencies, the program aims to promote social inclusion and facilitate access to the job market, since a driver's license is an essential requirement for many job opportunities.
Who is entitled to a Social CNH?
The CNH Social program establishes criteria to determine who is entitled to participate.
Generally, requirements vary by state, but some common criteria include:
- Be over 18 years old;
- Be literate;
- Have your own CPF;
- Not having a valid driver's license;
- Prove low income;
- Be registered in the Single Registry for Social Programs of the Federal Government (CadÚnico), when required.
Benefits that do not count towards the income of the Social Driver's License
When assessing the income of Social Driver's License applicants, some states consider only benefits that are not counted as income. These benefits include:
- Family Allowance;
- Green Bag Program;
- Continuous Benefit Payment (BPC);
- Unemployment Insurance;
- Child Labor Eradication Program (PETI);
- National Youth Inclusion Program (Projovem).
It is important to highlight that states may have specific and updated criteria regarding benefits that are not counted as income, therefore, it is essential to check the information with the competent bodies in each state.
Documents required to apply for a Social Driver's License
When applying for a Social Driver's License, it is important to be prepared with the necessary documentation. Although requirements may vary by state, some commonly required documents are:
- Identification document (RG);
- CPF;
- Proof of residence;
- Proof of income;
- Documents proving participation in social programs, when required.
It is essential to check the specific requirements of the state in which you intend to apply for the Social CNH, as there may be additional requirements or specific documents requested.
Step by step guide to applying for a Social Driver's License
The process for applying for a Social Driver's License generally involves the following steps:
- Go to the website of your state's Department of Transportation (Detran). The address may vary depending on your location, but it's usually something like www.detran.[state acronym].gov.br.
- Look for the section related to “Qualification” or “Services” on the Detran website and click on the option “CNH Popular” or “CNH Social”.
- On the program page, you will find different options. Choose the “First-time driver’s license” option or similar, depending on the options available.
- You will be asked to enter your CPF to proceed with the process. Make sure you enter the number correctly.
- After validating your CPF, you will need to fill out a form with your personal information. Provide the requested data accurately and carefully.
- Check which documents are required by the CNH Social program in your state. Generally, you will need to attach proof of residence, ID, and Social Identification Number (NIS). Make sure you have these documents on hand before proceeding.
- After completing the form and attaching the requested documents, submit the request.
- Please wait for your request to be processed. Deadlines may vary depending on the state and program demand.
- If your application is approved, you will receive a notification with the next steps to follow. This may include attending theoretical and practical classes, medical examinations, among other procedures.
Each state may have a slightly different process, so it is essential to check the instructions provided by your state traffic authorities to ensure that you follow all necessary requirements and procedures.
Conclusion
CNH Social is an important initiative that aims to promote social inclusion and facilitate access to driving licenses for low-income people.
Through this program, many individuals have the opportunity to obtain a National Driver's License for free, opening doors to the job market and expanding their possibilities for mobility and independence.
