Drivers will have until December to take a drug test

With the return, this Saturday (1st), of the mandatory drug test for drivers of categories C, D and E, the National Traffic Council (Contran) defined this Friday (30th) that drivers will have until December 28th to stay up to date with the new law. The decision was published in the Federal Official Gazette. The requirement has been provided for by law since September 3, 2017, but was suspended due to the impacts of the covid-19 pandemic. On October 13, 2022, a new law established the new deadline and on June 19, Law 14,599 was sanctioned by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, to take effect on July 1. The change alters article 148-A of the Brazilian Traffic Code and establishes the mandatory drug test for drivers of categories C, D and E, aged less than 70 years. Drivers must take the exam for issuing, renewing the National Driver’s License, in addition to updates every two years and six months. Toxicological tests are carried out in laboratories accredited by the National Traffic Department (Senatran), using samples of hair, fur or nails, to verify the consumption of psychoactive substances. Results take a maximum of 90 days to be issued. Currently, on the Senatran website, there are 19 networks of accredited laboratories carrying out the exam.

Agência Brasil