Driving in Brazil
As in all countries in the world Brazil has its own rules and standards of driving. You will find some general information below on driving in Brazil which should help you to know what to expect when you get there.
The rules and regulations in Brazil are very strict when it comes to driving and vehicle documents. Should you be entering into Brazil in your own private car you will need to carry some documentation. You will need a driver's license, registration documents and logbook as well as valid insurance for the vehicle. All of these need to be the original documents.
Should you be entering driving a hire car you will also need to have with you the contract with the hire company, which should also state that you have the right to take it into Brazil . If for any reason boarder controls suspect you do not own or are renting the car without the right to take it into Brazil , then they have the permissions to impound it.
In 2005 a law was passed that introduced tolls to the motorways and main roads. You will mainly find these on the outskirts of the big towns and the tolls will need to be paid in Euros. For one week it will cost a car 5 Euros and 12 Euros for a month. Vignettes can also be purchased at all of the major boarders and points of entry, should you be without a vignette fines will be charged.
Brazilians drive on the right hand side of the road, the same as the most of Europe . But should you be taking a car from the UK you will need to have stickers fitted to your headlights in order to stop glare. The speed limits are set at 60km/h for populated roads such as the roads in cities, 80km/h for road in less populated areas and 120km/h on the motorways. Should you be stopped for exceeding these limits an on the spot fine will be issued.
Should you have the very unlucky experience of having your car stolen while you are in Brazil you will be liable to pay the import and duty. It is strongly recommended that you take out insurance that will cover this eventuality should it occur.
Unfortunately the driving standards in Brazil are not very high and car jacking can occur. It is recommended that for safety you drive during daylight hours only.