Brazilian CNH in the US: no renewal at the consulate
The Brazilian consulate neither issues nor renews the CNH, Brazil's driver's license. What the Washington consulate offers is a statement in English with the license's details: full name, date of birth and expiry date. It costs US$ 15, paid by USPS money order, according to the service page.
Washington's statement, in person or by mail
In person, booked through e-Consular, with the original CNH (or a certified or notarized copy).
By mail, only for residents of Washington's jurisdiction: a certified or notarized copy of the CNH, the money order and a USPS return envelope (Priority or Priority Express Mail Flat Rate, with tracking). The published turnaround is up to two business days after the request arrives.
What the statement does not do
The statement repeats the license's details in English, but it is not a US license or a new CNH.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Washington's statement | US$ 15 |
| Turnaround | up to 2 business days |
| Renewal | Detran, in Brazil |
- Original CNH, or a certified or notarized copy
- US$ 15 USPS money order
- USPS return envelope, if by mail
Renewing the Brazilian CNH
The list of e-Consular services published on the Consular Portal does not include the CNH. Renewal is a matter for the Detran, in Brazil: check with your state's Detran what it requires before you travel.
The Consulate in Orlando says the same: the RG and the CNH are issued or updated only in Brazil, by the competent bodies.
The CNH as proof of identity
Even without renewal at the consulate, the Brazilian CNH remains useful as proof of identity for consular services. New York's passport list accepts the photo CNH issued by the Detran, including the digital CNH with a QR code.
Washington accepts a valid CNH for a public power of attorney and, for proof of life, even an expired one.
Driving in the United States with a CNH
Each US state sets its own rule. According to USAGov, the US government portal, depending on the state you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) as well as your home country's license, and not every state requires one: check with the DMV of each state where you will drive.
The IDP is obtained before the trip, because the United States does not issue it to foreign visitors: you request it from the motor vehicle agency of the country that issued your license, in this case the Detran.
The Paraná Detran explains that the IDP translates the CNH into seven languages, is valid only together with the original license and expires within three years, or sooner if the CNH expires first.
If you live permanently in the United States, you can apply for a driver's license from your state, and the residency requirement differs from state to state. To rent a car, USAGov warns that the company may ask for both your license and an IDP.
Washington's statement is ready within two business days.Details verified on 4 October 2026.
This directory is run privately. consuladosbrasil.us does not belong to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or to any consular office.
We publish what the official sources say and point out where they disagree. Before you go, check the detail with the consulate.