California Traffic School FAQs
What are the benefits of California Traffic School?
Completing a California DMV-licensed traffic school offers one main benefit: masking Negligent Operator Points from being publicly visible by auto insurance companies. It can help you to prevent auto insurance rates increase due to a minor traffic violation.
What is California Traffic School?
California Traffic School is a DMV-licensed course that allows eligible drivers to mask a traffic ticket from their public record, preventing points and insurance rate hikes.
What is the difference between Traffic School and Traffic Violator School?
They are the same. "Traffic Violator School" is the official DMV term, but it's commonly referred to as "Traffic School." Both serve the same purpose: to keep your public record clean.
Do I need a court approval before taking the course?
Yes. You must be granted permission by the court handling your citation. This usually happens when you pay your fine and opt in for traffic school.
How long does the traffic school take?
The course is designed to meet the DMV-required 8-hour standard, but it's self-paced and has no timers. You can finish faster depending on your schedule.
How much time do I have to complete the traffic school?
The court will give you a deadline, typically 60 to 90 days from the date you paid your ticket. Make sure to finish the course before your deadline.
What is the refund policy?
Refund policies are different for each traffic school. Usually, if you haven't completed the course or passed the final exam, you may request a full refund within 30 days of registration. No refunds are issued after completion or after 30 days since the date of purchase. Check with your traffic school provider for more specifics.
What happens if I answer a test/quiz question incorrectly?
No problem! You can review the material and retake quizzes as needed. The final exam is open book and the California Department of Motor Vehicles allows students two attempts to pass the final exam. However, most students pass the exam the first time.
Are course completion results reported to California DMV automatically?
Yes. Most California traffic schools offer free same-day e-filing with the California DMV and court upon successful course completion.
How to check my DMV driving record?
You can request your driving record online through the official California DMV website: Check Your Record Here.
In what formats is traffic school available?
Traffic school is available in three main formats: online, classroom, and home study. Most drivers choose the online format because it's the most convenient. You can complete it anytime, anywhere, from your phone, tablet, or computer. Some courts may still allow in-person classroom sessions or workbook-style home study, but online traffic school is the most popular and efficient option. We recommend you to take a course from I Drive Safely. This is an established company with a good reputation for quick and easy online traffic school courses.
How many points can be masked?
You can mask one eligible traffic violation point every 18 months by completing a traffic school.
Does traffic school remove points from my driving record?
No, it doesn't remove existing points. It prevents a new point from being added to your public record when you complete the course for an eligible ticket.
How often can I take the traffic school course?
You can take it once every 18 months from the violation date of your last eligible ticket.
How can I check if traffic school is DMV approved?
You can visit the California DMV's website and search their official list of approved traffic schools. There are over 300 DMV approved traffic schools in the state of California that offer online courses and in-person classes. Such variety makes it quite difficult to make a decision.
After our internal review, we recommend you a DMV approved course from I Drive Safely. It is a very well established company with quick and easy courses.
Can I take the course if I hold a Commercial Driver License (CDL)?
Yes, in some cases Commercial Driver License (CDL) holders may still be eligible to take a California Traffic School course, but certain conditions must be met:
- The ticket must have been issued on or after January 1, 2013.
- You must have been driving a non-commercial vehicle at the time of the violation.
- You must receive court approval to attend Traffic Violator School.
Important: While the conviction may not be masked on your driving record, the point will not count toward the DMV's negligent operator point total under Section 12810.5.
Is traffic school required?
No, it's optional. But if the court gives you the opportunity, it's a great way to prevent points on your public record and protect your insurance rates.