Curitiba Transport

Will I need to drive my own vehicle to conduct my everyday life (work/school/shopping) at my destination?
No. Curitiba has a very efficient public transit network. There are buses and subway transportation for many places although it can be very crowded during rush hour. Some expatriates prefer to buy cars instead of using public transportation.
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How can I legally drive a vehicle in this city?
When moving to Brazil, a home country driver's license will suffice for the first six months of an expatriate's stay. It is recommended that you bring your license (and, if possible, an international license) as the procedure to obtain a Brazilian driver’s license can take some time. To convert a non-Brazilian license, a driver will need to pass both a written and a practical test.

In order to drive in Brazil, expats will need to present their home driver's license as well as a sworn translation of it. Additionally, they will need to furnish the following documents:

  • Passport - including number, personal information, visa and legible immigration stamp citing the date of entrance to Brazil
  • Immigration card OR authenticated copy of the Foreigner National Register’s (RNE) protocol OR authenticated copy of RNE
  • Signed Department of Transportation (DETRAN) declaration, original

These documents will allow expatriates to obtain a six-month provisional license that is available for renewal.
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What side of the road do people drive on?
Brazilians drive on the right side of the road.
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Describe typical public transportation an expat might use to get around the city.
Taxis and private drivers are widely used, as is the subway and bus system.
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Could an expat also use public transportation to get out of the city—to surrounding towns, recreation areas or suburbs? If so, list options.
There is no subway in Curitiba. Curitiba’s bus system is very organized. The country's coach service is fairly advanced with high-quality buses connecting most major cities.
The main coach companies are:

  • Itapemirim or Cometa - Operates between Curitiba and São Paulo, and between Curitiba and Rio de Janeiro
  • Catarinense - Operates between Curitiba and Santa Catarina
  • Expresso Reunidas – Operates to the country side of Curitiba

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In regards to transportation, are there any safety issues I should be aware of?
Curitiba has a very simple and practical transportation system. Public transportation consists entirely of buses. A metro line is in construction. There are several different types of bus, each with a different function.
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Where do I buy tickets/tokens/etc. for the major public transportation?
You can buy tickets for the different forms of transit at their respective stations.
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IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.