Running a red light: hefty fine, 7 points on your license, and a real risk of losing your driving privileges

Did you run a red light and are now wondering what the consequences will be? The violation is more serious than many imagine. It’s not just a simple fine to pay – there are points that accumulate on your CNH and specific rules that every driver needs to know to avoid unpleasant surprises.

The financial and licensing impact

When a driver runs a red light, they are committing one of the most serious traffic violations. According to the Brazilian Traffic Code, specifically Article 208, this conduct is classified as a Very Serious Infraction. The punishment comes in two forms: financial and administrative.

The updated fine amount in 2026 is R$ 293.47. But the greater damage is invisible on your record: the driver automatically receives 7 points on their CNH. This accumulation of points is not trivial – depending on your violation history, you may be close to the limit that results in suspension of your driving license. Reinstatement after reaching this limit requires specialized courses and a waiting period.

How the equipment captures your violation

Electronic enforcement systems – those famous “pardais” or inductive loops installed at traffic lights – operate automatically and precisely. The sensor is triggered at the exact moment the red light is fully active. There is a small tolerance interval between yellow and red, but once the signal changes, the equipment records any vehicle crossing the stop line.

These radars not only capture an image of the car passing the red light – they can also record excessive speed at the intersection and even illegal stopping on the crosswalk. The camera identifies the vehicle’s license plate, and the fine is automatically sent by the Detran of the state. Reducing speed when the yellow light turns on is the safest strategy to avoid this situation.

Specific situations where exceptions apply

Although the rule is to come to a complete stop at a red traffic light, legislation provides for some very specific conditions where the driver is permitted to continue:

• Turning right, provided there is specific signage authorizing this maneuver
• Passing emergency vehicles with sirens and flashing lights – in these cases, the driver may proceed to clear the intersection
• In certain municipalities, special rules apply during low traffic hours (usually between 10 PM and 5 AM)
• Situations where the vehicle was already in the crosswalk trying to clear the intersection

Knowing these exceptions helps avoid unjust fines, but most cases remain violations.

The hierarchy of traffic penalties

To understand the weight of this violation, it’s helpful to see how it ranks in the severity scale of infractions. Each type of violation has a cost and a points value proportional to the risk it generates:

The fine for running a red light is at the top of the severity scale, reflecting the real risk of serious accidents caused by this behavior.

Checking your status and resolving pending issues

If you received a notification or suspect you have an open infraction, there are official channels to verify. The portal of the National Traffic Department allows you to check both the driver’s and the vehicle’s records.

Early payment through the Electronic Notification System can result in significant discounts on the original amount. Resolving these issues is essential – a vehicle with unpaid fines may face restrictions on circulation or even transfer restrictions. Staying up to date with your obligations ensures your car can circulate freely throughout the entire country.