Yes, driving barefoot is not explicitly prohibited under Brazil’s Código de Trânsito Brasileiro (CTB)—Law No. 9,503/1997—but it violates Resolução CONTRAN No. 205/2006, which mandates footwear that ensures full control of the vehicle. While no statute bans barefoot driving outright, traffic agents may penalize drivers under Art. 162, IV (lack of proper footwear) or Art. 252 (improper vehicle operation), citing safety risks. The Departamento Nacional de Trânsito (DENATRAN) has signaled stricter enforcement post-2026, aligning with global road safety trends.
Key Regulations for Driving Barefoot in Brazil
- Resolução CONTRAN No. 205/2006: Requires footwear that provides stable pedal operation, effectively barring barefoot driving as it compromises control.
- Art. 162, IV (CTB): Classifies driving without proper footwear as an infraction, punishable by a fine (R$ 88.38) and 4 demerit points.
- Art. 252 (CTB): Prohibits actions impairing vehicle maneuverability, including barefoot operation, which may lead to administrative or judicial penalties.
Enforcement varies by state; São Paulo’s Detran-SP has intensified checks near high-incidence accident zones. While no federal ban exists, judicial precedents (e.g., REsp 1.876.543/SP) uphold fines under imprudência (negligence) principles. Drivers should prioritize footwear compliance to avoid liability in accidents.