DETRAN Categoria A exam-day guide
DETRAN Categoria A · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Original photo ID (RG or CNH)
Bring the original, physical document. A copy or photo on your phone is generally not accepted. Some states accept digital CNH; confirm with the provider which formats are valid at your testing location.
CPF or proof of CPF
Many scheduling systems and exam records are tied to the CPF. Carry the number or a document showing it in case the examiner needs to match your registration.
Proof of scheduled exam / appointment confirmation
Print or save the confirmation from the scheduling system, including time, address, and any protocol number. Arrive at the stated time, not earlier than the provider allows.
Proof of address, if requested
Some providers ask for a recent utility bill or similar document. Check your confirmation email or call ahead; do not assume it is needed.
Medical or psychological clearance, if required
If your case requires additional examinations, bring the original result or proof it was submitted. Confirm with the provider whether the result is already in the system.
Payment receipt or fee proof
If any fee is paid on the day, bring the receipt or payment confirmation. Confirm accepted payment methods with the provider in advance.
Comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes
Wear what you would normally drive in. Avoid loose sandals, high heels, or clothing that restricts pedal use or seatbelt fit.
Corrective lenses if you use them
If your learner permit or medical record notes a vision restriction, bring glasses or contact lenses. Testing without them can fail the vision requirement.
Arrive rested and sober
No alcohol in the hours before the test. Fatigue and medication that causes drowsiness are grounds to postpone; do not risk a failed attempt.
Know the vehicle you will use
If the provider allows your own car, confirm it is registered, insured, and has working lights, horn, seatbelts, and mirrors. Confirm vehicle requirements with the provider.
Leave prohibited items behind
Phones, smartwatches, and notes are usually not allowed during the practical test. Store them or leave them with a companion before entering the vehicle.
Plan your route and arrival time
Check traffic and parking near the testing site. Arriving late can mean losing your slot; aim to be at the entrance a few minutes before your scheduled time.
Plan the day
Re-read the official candidate handbook for your category and review the checklist of maneuvers the examiner will observe. Confirm your appointment time and address in the scheduling system. Verify your documents are originals and valid, and that any medical or psychological results are already registered. If you plan to use your own vehicle, check tires, lights, horn, wipers, and seatbelts and top up fuel.
Do one or two practice sessions focused on the weakest maneuvers, such as parallel parking, three-point turns, and smooth starts on hills. Practice narrating your observations out loud so mirror and shoulder checks become automatic. Stop practicing late in the evening; sleep matters more than one extra lap.
Lay out your documents, glasses, and clothes. Confirm transport to the testing site and allow extra time for traffic. Avoid alcohol entirely and go to bed at your normal hour. If you take medication that may cause drowsiness, check with your doctor or the provider whether it affects your eligibility on the day.
Eat a normal meal and drink water. Recheck that you have your original ID, CPF, and confirmation. Arrive at the site at the scheduled time, not hours early. Use the waiting time to breathe slowly and mentally rehearse the sequence: seat, mirrors, belt, signal, check, move.
Adjust the seat, mirrors, and headrest before starting. Fasten the belt and confirm the examiner is ready. Signal every intention, check mirrors and blind spots visibly, and keep both hands on the wheel except when shifting. Follow the examiner's instructions exactly; if you did not understand, ask calmly to repeat. Do not argue or comment on the route. Complete each maneuver at a controlled speed and finish by parking safely and turning off the engine.
Rules to check
Bring original identification. The examiner must be able to confirm your identity before the test begins; photocopies and screenshots are generally not accepted. Confirm with the provider which documents are valid.
Follow the examiner's instructions and remain polite and calm throughout. Arguing, raising your voice, or refusing an instruction can end the test and may be recorded as a failure.
No phones, smartwatches, or notes inside the vehicle during the practical test. Silence and store devices before you approach the car.
Zero tolerance for alcohol or impairing substances. If the examiner suspects impairment, the test will not proceed; do not attempt to drive.
Ask about breaks and restroom access before the test starts. Rules on pauses vary by provider, so confirm with the provider rather than assuming you can stop mid-test.
Scoring is based on the examiner's observation of your driving and maneuvers. Errors are classified by severity in the official rules; a certain number or type of serious errors results in failure. Read the current scoring criteria in the official handbook before the test.
If you fail, you generally must wait a period before retesting and may need to pay a new fee. The exact interval and fee depend on your state and situation; confirm with the provider.
If you have a disability or medical condition that requires accommodation, request it well before the test date. Do not wait until the day of the exam to raise it.