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Ambushes to issue fines? Understand why hidden traffic agents cannot issue fines

Written by Alisson Ficher
Published 11/01/2025 às 20:02
Hidden traffic officers can no longer issue fines. Understand the new legislation and how enforcement has evolved in Brazil.
Hidden traffic officers can no longer issue fines. Understand the new legislation and how enforcement has evolved in Brazil.

Since 2021, hidden traffic officers have been banned from issuing fines. Resolution 798 seeks justice and transparency, with identified officers and visible devices. In 2024, PRF fines increased by 70% with the support of technologies such as cameras and drones. Understand how these changes impact drivers and Brazilian traffic.

A few years ago, a controversial practice caused outrage among Brazilian drivers: traffic agents hidden in strategic locations issued fines in a way that many considered unfair.

This situation, which seemed like a real game of cat and mouse in the streets and highways, is now prohibited by law. But what motivated this prohibition?

What is the current traffic control scenario in the country? Understand how the new legislation has brought transparency and reformulated the relationship between drivers and traffic agents.

Resolution No. 798 of the National Traffic Council (Contran), in force since November 1, 2021, prohibits hidden traffic agents from issuing fines.

This measure seeks to prevent abusive practices and ensure greater justice in traffic control., strengthening the relationship of trust between drivers and regulatory bodies.

According to the standard, agents must be properly identified and visible.

Furthermore, monitoring devices, such as radars, cannot be hidden by trees, posts or other structures.

A necessary change

The legislation was created in response to frequent complaints about the conduct of traffic officers.

Walter Douglas Sanches, a traffic law specialist, explains that “the practice of hiding to issue a ticket was justified as a way of catching offenders who might otherwise escape.

However, this approach has been criticized as dishonest, generating distrust and discomfort among drivers.”

The resolution also requires traffic authorities to make available, on online platforms, the identification of the agents involved in the inspection.

This measure offers drivers the possibility of checking the legitimacy of the fine received and appealing it, if they deem it necessary.

To contest a fine, the driver must check the traffic ticket or notification received and follow the procedures established by the responsible body.

According to Sanches, “the stance of arresting citizens in a surprising manner, without a uniform or in plain clothes, raises questions about abuse of authority”.

Technology and transparency

If the use of hidden agents was prohibited, inspection was reinforced with technology.

Monitoring cameras equipped with artificial intelligence and drones are increasingly present on streets and highways.

These tools, in addition to being more efficient, reduce the need for direct interactions between drivers and agents, reducing potential conflicts.

A clear example of this impact is the number of fines issued by the Federal Highway Police (PRF).

In 2024, the PRF recorded around 6,6 million infractions on federal highways in Brazil.

This volume represents an increase of almost 70% compared to 2023, when 3,9 million fines were applied.

The impact of the new rules

With the ban on ambushes, traffic enforcement has started to prioritize accident prevention. Traffic agents must now guide drivers and not just issue tickets.

This change also aims to educate drivers and promote safer and more organized traffic.

The population also gained more tools to monitor the conduct of agents. Transparency of actions is one of the main pillars of Resolution No. 798.

Today, drivers can consult information about fines received quickly and clearly, avoiding confusion and promoting justice.

And now?

The ban on hidden agents issuing fines was an important step towards humanizing traffic control in Brazil.

Still, the significant increase in the number of fines shows that challenges remain.

How can drivers adapt to new enforcement technologies without feeling like they are under constant surveillance?

Do you believe that the ban on hidden agents has changed the relationship between drivers and inspectors for the better?

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Everardo
Everardo
12/01/2025 00:38

It is important to fine, yes, but only if we know what the money was used for, and where it went! Furthermore, those fined should be included in their income tax deductions, since these fines provide additional income for the government, such as tolls, etc. Smart guys...

Everardo
Everardo
12/01/2025 00:40

It is important to fine, yes, but only if we know what the money was used for, and where it went! Furthermore, those fined should be included in their income tax deductions, since these fines provide additional income for the government, such as tolls, etc. Smart guys...

Everardo
Everardo
12/01/2025 00:42

It is important to fine, yes, but only if we know what the money was used for, what hole it went into! Furthermore, those fined should be included in their income tax deductions, as these fines provide additional income for the government, such as tolls, etc. Smart guys...

Last edited 1 month ago by Everardo
Alisson Ficher

Journalist graduated in 2017 and working in the field since 2015, with six years of experience in print magazines, stints on broadcast TV channels and over 12 online publications. Specialist in politics, jobs, economics, courses, among other topics. Professional registration: 0087134/SP. If you have any questions, want to report an error or suggest a topic on the topics covered on the site, please contact us by email: alisson.hficher@outlook.com. We do not accept resumes!

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