Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course (BDI)

Benefits of Basic Driver Improvement Course in Florida

• Meet Legal Requirements: Fulfill a court or DHSMV order after a violation.
• Keep Points Off Your Record: Prevent a traffic violation from adding points that can lead to license suspension.
• Avoid Insurance Increases: Completing the course may stop your insurance company from raising your rates.
• Maintain Safe Driver Status: Stay eligible for Florida's "Safe Driver" designation by keeping your record clean.

This course is one of the most convenient and effective ways to protect your driving privileges and become a safer driver on Florida roads.

How to Find a BDI Course Approved by State of Florida

The Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) maintains a list of approved providers. With many online options available, it's easy to find a course that fits your schedule. We recommend I Drive Safely—a trusted provider offering a quick, fully online BDI course accepted throughout Florida.

What Is the Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course

The Florida BDI course is a 4-hour educational program approved by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). It helps drivers improve safety awareness and avoid the consequences of traffic infractions.

What is the difference between Basic Driver Improvement Course and Traffic School?

There is no real difference. “Basic Driver Improvement Course” (BDI) is the official name used by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), while “Traffic School” is simply a common or informal term used to describe the same course. Both refer to the 4-hour state-approved program that helps drivers avoid points on their license, fulfill court orders, or qualify for insurance discounts.

Who Driver Improvement Course Is For

You may be required or eligible to take the BDI course if you:

• Were cited for a moving violation and want to avoid points on your record
• Were ordered by a Florida court to attend
• Were involved in a crash and found at fault
• Passed a stopped school bus or ran a red light
• Voluntarily take the course for insurance discount or point reduction

Note: You can take the course once every 12 months, up to 5 times in a lifetime.

What You'll Learn

The BDI course covers Florida traffic laws, defensive driving techniques, and crash avoidance strategies. You'll also review the dangers of distracted, impaired, and aggressive driving. The course content is interactive and includes real-life scenarios to help you become a safer, more responsible driver.

How It Works

1. Contact FLHSMV or your insurance provider to check if you qualify to receive your benefits
2. Register for an approved course online
3. Complete the 4-hour program at your own pace from any device
4. Pass the final exam
5. Receive a completion certificate (digital or by mail)
6. Course providers report your completion electronically to the FLHSMV (usually within 24–72 hours)
7. If court-ordered, submit proof to the court as instructed

The BDI course includes short chapter quizzes and a final test. Most students pass on their first attempt, and retakes are usually available at no extra cost.

You may also need court permission to attend, depending on the nature of your ticket.

24–72 hours after successful traffic school completion, you can use Traffic School/Driver Improvement course completion check online tool provided by FLHSMV to check if results appeared in the system.