Texas Defensive Driving FAQs
What are the benefits of taking a Texas Defensive Driving course?
Completing a TDLR-approved defensive driving course in Texas can help you dismiss a qualifying traffic ticket and prevent it from appearing on your official driving record, avoid driver license suspension, and keep your insurance rates from increasing. In many cases, insurance providers also offer a discount for voluntarily completing a defensive driving course.
What is a Texas Defensive Driving course?
A Texas Defensive Driving course, also called a Driver Safety Course (DSC), is an educational program licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). It teaches safe driving habits and traffic laws. If you're eligible and receive court approval, it allows you to dismiss one traffic citation every 12 months.
Is Defensive Driving the same as Driver Safety Course?
Yes. In Texas, "Defensive Driving Course" and "Driver Safety Course" refer to the same state-approved program. The terms are used interchangeably, and both are accepted for ticket dismissal and insurance discounts.
Do I need court approval before taking the course?
Yes. To dismiss a ticket, you must first request a permission from the court that issued your citation. This typically involves paying court fees and submitting a formal request for defensive driving. Once approved, the court will give you a deadline to complete the course and submit the completion certificate.
How long is the Texas Defensive Driving course?
The course is 6 hours long, as required by TDLR. If you're taking it online, it is self-paced; you can log in and out at your convenience and complete it over several sessions.
How much time do I have to complete the course?
Most Texas courts give you 90 days from the date you are granted permission to take the course. You must complete the course and submit the certificate of completion and a certified copy of your driving record to the court within this timeframe.
What is the refund policy?
Refund policies vary by provider. Generally, if you haven't completed the course or final exam, you may be eligible for a full refund within 30 days of purchase. No refunds are issued after course completion or after the deadline passes. Check with your course provider for specific terms.
What happens if I fail the quiz or exam?
No stress. Online defensive driving courses in Texas are designed to be student-friendly. Usually, there is a quiz at the end of each chapter. You must score a 70% or higher to move onto the next chapter. You may retake your quizzes an unlimited number of times. However, if you fail a quiz, you will be asked to retake the chapter's lesson material before attempting the quiz again. There is no final exam!
Are course completion results submitted to the state automatically?
No. In Texas, it's your responsibility to submit the course completion certificate to the court that granted you permission. Some providers may offer electronic court delivery in certain jurisdictions, but in most cases, you will need to send or upload the certificate yourself.
How do I get my Texas driving record?
If your court requires it, you can order a certified copy of your Type 3A driving record directly from the Texas DPS online portal. This is the official record required for ticket dismissal: Order Driving Record from DPS.
In what formats is Defensive Driving available?
Defensive driving is available in three formats:
- Online (most popular): Take it at your own pace using a phone, tablet, or computer.
- Classroom: In-person sessions offered by certified instructors.
- Video/DVD (rare): Some providers offer video-based learning for home viewing.
We recommend you choose an online course from I Drive Safely—a highly rated provider with a quick, user-friendly format approved by the TDLR.
How often can I take Defensive Driving in Texas to dismiss a ticket?
Once every 12 months from the date of your last citation dismissal using a defensive driving course. Your driving record will show your eligibility.
Does Defensive Driving remove points from my Texas driving record?
Texas no longer uses a formal Point System for moving violations. However, completing defensive driving will prevent the citation from becoming a conviction on your record, which helps protect your driving history and insurance rates.
Can I take Defensive Driving for an insurance discount?
Yes! Many auto insurance providers offer a discount of 5–10% if you complete a defensive driving course voluntarily. You don't need court approval in this case. Just verify with your auto insurance provider before taking a TDLR approved course and provide the certificate to your insurance agent after course completion.
Can I take the course if I hold a Commercial Driver License (CDL)?
Generally, CDL holders are not eligible to dismiss a ticket through defensive driving in Texas. However, you may take the course voluntarily for insurance purposes or to improve your driving knowledge.
Is Defensive Driving mandatory?
No, it's optional. But if the court offers you the chance, it's an excellent way to keep your driving record clean and avoid potential insurance rate hikes.
How can I verify if a Defensive Driving course is approved in Texas?
You can search for TDLR approved course providers using the official state directory here: TDLR Course Search.
We recommend choosing a provider like I Drive Safely, known for its fast processing, mobile friendly format, and strong customer reviews.