Traffic School

What Is Traffic School?

Traffic school (also known as defensive driving school or driver improvement program) is an educational program designed for drivers who have received a traffic citation or want to improve their driving skills. These programs focus on safe driving techniques, traffic laws, and developing responsible driving habits.

Benefits of Traffic School

Depending on your state, traffic school may help you with:

  • Masking Driver's License Point System: Your driver license points will not be visible to your insurance company which can help you avoid insurance price increase due to the traffic violation
  • Ticket Dismissal: In many states, completing traffic school allows you to dismiss a traffic ticket from your record
  • Driver's License Point System Reduction: Reduce or prevent points from being added to your driving record
  • Insurance Discounts: Some insurance companies offer premium discounts for drivers who voluntarily complete traffic school
  • Knowledge Refresh: Update your understanding of current traffic laws and safe driving practices

Always check with your court or DMV to confirm your eligibility before enrolling.

How It Works

  1. Check If You Qualify: Check with local DMV and your auto insurance provider if you qualify for the purpose of the benefits you are interested in
  2. Enrollment: Register for a state-approved traffic school program after receiving a citation or voluntarily
  3. Course Completion: Complete the required curriculum
  4. Final Exam: Pass a final exam to demonstrate your understanding of the material
  5. Certification: Receive a certificate of completion to submit to the appropriate authorities

Common Course Curriculum

  • Traffic laws and regulations
  • Safe driving techniques
  • Consequences of impaired driving
  • Managing road hazards
  • Defensive driving strategies

Course Formats

Traffic school may be available in several formats to accommodate different learning preferences:

  • Online Courses: Complete the program at your own pace from any location with internet access
  • In-Person Classes: Attend classroom sessions led by certified instructors

Eligibility

Eligibility requirements for traffic school vary by state but typically include:

  • Having a valid driver's license
  • Not having attended traffic school within a certain time period (often 12-18 months)
  • The type of violation (some serious violations may not qualify)
  • Meeting court-imposed deadlines

State Specifics

Traffic school rules, requirements and benefits vary by state. Please select your state from the dropdown list on this page to see specific requirements, approved providers, and course options for your location.