New Jersey Defensive Driving FAQs

What are the benefits of New Jersey Defensive Driving?

Completing a New Jersey MVC approved defensive driving course can help you in two important ways: removing 2 points from your driving record and qualifying for an auto insurance discount. Most drivers take it either to improve their record or save money on car insurance.

What is the New Jersey Defensive Driving Course?

It's a state approved online course that allows eligible New Jersey drivers to remove up to 2 points from their record and possibly earn a discount on car insurance. The course teaches defensive driving techniques and safe driving habits.

How many points can I remove from my record?

You can remove up to 2 points from your New Jersey driving record once every 5 years by successfully completing a defensive driving course.

What is the difference between Defensive Driving Course, Driver Improvement Program (DIP), and Probationary Driver Program (PDP)?

New Jersey offers three main driver programs: the Driver Improvement Program (DIP) is required for experienced drivers who accumulate 12–14 points and can reduce suspension risk and remove 3 points; the Probationary Driver Program (PDP) is mandatory for new drivers who commit multiple violations during their first two years and also removes 3 points; and the Defensive Driving Program is a voluntary course available once every five years that removes 2 points and may provide an insurance discount. Each program serves a different purpose and cannot be used interchangeably.

Note: Full list of Point Reduction Programs and approved providers.

Can I get an insurance discount?

Yes. Many insurance providers offer a discount of up to 10% for completing an MVC approved defensive driving course. Discounts typically last for 3 years. Contact your insurance company to confirm eligibility and exact savings.

Do I need court or MVC approval before enrolling?

No. You do not need special approval to take the course for point reduction or insurance discount. However, you must not have taken a defensive driving course within the last 5 years for point reduction purposes.

How long does the course take?

The New Jersey defensive driving course is 6 hours long. It's self-paced, so you can start and stop as needed. Many students complete it in a single day or over the weekend.

How often can I take the defensive driving course?

You can take it once every 5 years for point reduction, and once every 3 years to maintain an insurance discount.

Does the course remove existing points?

It does not erase past violations, but it subtracts 2 points from your current point total, which may help you avoid surcharges or suspension.

What happens if I fail a quiz or the final exam?

Don't worry! The course is designed to be easy to pass. Quizzes can be retaken, and the final exam is open book. Most providers allow multiple attempts to ensure you pass.

Are my results automatically reported to the New Jersey MVC?

Yes. If you take a course from an MVC-approved provider, your completion will be reported electronically to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC).

How can I check my New Jersey driving record?

You can request your official driving record online from the New Jersey MVC.

In what formats is the defensive driving course available?

The course is most commonly taken online. This is the fastest and most convenient method. You can log in from any device—computer, tablet, or smartphone. In-person classroom and DVD/home-study options may be available from some providers, but online is by far the most popular. We recommend I Drive Safely for an easy, user-friendly online experience.

Is defensive driving required in New Jersey?

No, it's voluntary. But it's strongly recommended if you want to improve your record, avoid surcharges, or qualify for lower insurance rates.

Can Commercial Driver License (CDL) holders take the course?

CDL holders can take the course for educational purposes or possibly for insurance discounts, but point reduction is not available for CDL holders in New Jersey. Point benefits only apply to regular (Class D) license holders.

What is the refund policy?

Each course provider sets their own refund policy. Generally, if you have not completed the course or taken the final exam, you may be eligible for a refund within 30 days. Contact your provider for specific terms.