Michigan Basic Driver Improvement Course FAQs

Benefits of Basic Driver Improvement Course in Michigan

The Michigan Basic Driver Improvement Course (BDIC) is designed to help you:

• Prevent points from being added to your driving record
• Keep traffic violations from being reported to your insurance company
• Avoid potential insurance rate increases
• Qualify for insurance discounts (when taken voluntarily)
• Refresh your knowledge of traffic safety and defensive driving

BDIC is a state approved educational program designed to help drivers improve their driving skills and knowledge of traffic laws. This course allows eligible drivers to remove points from their driving record, potentially reducing insurance premiums and avoiding license suspension. The course covers defensive driving techniques, traffic safety, and Michigan-specific driving laws and regulations.

Do I need a court approval before taking the course?

No, you do not need court approval to take the Basic Driver Improvement Course in Michigan. If you're eligible, the Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) will mail you a notice (not a court) stating you have 60 days to enroll and complete the BDIC through an approved provider. Our editorial pick is I Drive Safely, an established company with a proven track record for delivering quality online Basic Driver Improvement education.

How long does the Basic Driver Improvement Course take?

The Michigan Basic Driver Improvement Course typically takes 4 hours to complete. This includes all instructional content, quizzes, and the final exam. The course is designed to be comprehensive yet efficient, covering all necessary topics within this timeframe to meet state requirements for point reduction.

How much time do I have to complete the Driver Improvement Course?

Most approved providers allow you to complete the course within 30 to 60 days from the date of enrollment, depending on the specific provider's policy. Online courses typically offer more flexibility, allowing you to log in and out as needed and complete the course at your own pace within the allowed timeframe. It's important to check with your chosen provider for their specific completion deadline.

What is the refund policy?

Refund policies vary by course provider, but most approved providers offer a satisfaction guarantee or refund policy. Typically, you can receive a full refund if you request it within a certain period (usually 30 days) and before completing the course. Always review the refund policy before enrolling and keep documentation of your enrollment and any refund requests.

What happens if I answer a test/quiz question incorrectly?

If you answer a quiz or test question incorrectly, most courses will provide immediate feedback and allow you to review the correct answer and explanation. You'll typically be able to retake quizzes until you achieve a passing score. The final exam usually requires a minimum passing score (often 70% or 80%), and if you don't pass on the first attempt, you'll generally be allowed to retake it after reviewing the material.

Are course completion results reported to Michigan DMV automatically?

Yes, approved course providers are required to report completion results directly to the Michigan Secretary of State (which handles driver licensing) within a specified timeframe, typically within 10 business days of course completion. You should receive a certificate of completion, and the points should be removed from your driving record automatically. You can verify the points removal by checking your driving record a few weeks after completion.

How to check my driving record?

You can check your Michigan driving record through the Secretary of State's online, by visiting a Secretary of State branch office, or by mail. Online access typically requires creating an account and paying a small fee. Your driving record will show your current point total, violations, and any completed driver improvement courses. It's recommended to check your record before and after taking the course to confirm point removal.

In what formats is Driver Improvement Course available?

The Michigan Basic Driver Improvement Course is available in multiple formats to accommodate different learning preferences and schedules. These include online courses that can be completed from home or traditional in-person classroom courses. Online courses are the most popular due to their convenience and flexibility, allowing you to complete the course at your own pace from any device with internet access.

How many points can be removed from my Michigan driving record?

You can NOT remove points that are already on your Michigan driving record early. Once added, points remain on your record for two years from the conviction date and then automatically expire. However, successfully completing an approved BDIC allows you to avoid having points from an eligible traffic ticket added to your record. The course prevents the points from the specific ticket you're taking the course for from being placed on your driving record and prevents the ticket information from being reported to your insurance company.

How often can I take the Driver Improvement course?

You can take the Michigan Basic Driver Improvement Course only once in your lifetime for point reduction purposes. This limitation is set by the Michigan Secretary of State to prevent abuse of the system. You can retake the BDIC as many times as needed within the original 60-day eligibility period to pass the course.

How can I check if provider is approved by Michigan DMV?

You can verify if a course provider is approved by the Michigan Secretary of State by checking the official list of approved providers. Always ensure the provider is currently approved, as approval status can change. Approved providers will have a state-issued approval number and should be able to provide verification of their approval status upon request.

Can I take the course if I hold a Commercial Driver License (CDL)?

No, for the purposes of point reduction, you can NOT take the Michigan Basic Driver Improvement Course if you hold a Commercial Driver License (CDL) or were operating a commercial motor vehicle at the time of the ticket.

Is Basic Driver Improvement Course (BDIC) required?

The Michigan Basic Driver Improvement Course (BDIC) is not automatically required for all drivers. However, it may be required in certain situations, such as when ordered by a court as part of a sentence or plea agreement, or when mandated by the Secretary of State for license reinstatement after certain violations. For most drivers, taking the course is voluntary and done to reduce points on their driving record, potentially lower insurance rates, or improve driving skills. Some drivers may also be required to take the course as a condition of employment.