What a driver improvement course is and why the DMV requires it
A driver improvement course is a classroom or online program that teaches traffic safety and the rules of the road. The DMV does not run these courses itself — they are taught by private driving schools, community colleges, and other approved providers. The DMV requires you to take one when you have accumulated too many points on your driving record, received certain traffic violations, or been ordered by a court to complete one as a condition of keeping your license.
The course is not a punishment in the traditional sense. It is a way for the state to reduce your insurance rates, lower the points on your record, and give you a second chance to demonstrate safe driving habits. Completing the course shows the DMV and your insurance company that you have taken steps to become a safer driver.
Different states have different names for this requirement — some call it a defensive driving course, a traffic safety course, or a point reduction course. The rules about when you must take one, how long it lasts, and what it costs vary significantly by state. Your state's DMV website will tell you the specific requirements for your situation.
Key Takeaways
- A driver improvement course is taught by private providers, not the DMV, and covers traffic safety and road rules.
- The DMV may require you to take one if you accumulate too many points, receive certain violations, or are ordered by a court.
- Completing the course can reduce points on your record and lower your insurance rates, though the exact benefit depends on your state and insurance company.
- You must find an approved provider in your state — taking a course from an unapproved source will not satisfy the DMV requirement.
- The course typically takes four to eight hours and costs between $20 and $100, depending on whether you take it in person or online.
When the DMV will require you to take a driver improvement course
Most states require a driver improvement course when you reach a certain number of points on your driving record within a set time period. For example, some states require the course if you accumulate 12 points in 12 months, while others use different thresholds. You will receive a notice from the DMV if you have hit that threshold — do not wait for a second notice.
You may also be required to take the course if you receive a specific violation, such as reckless driving, speeding more than 15 miles per hour over the limit, or driving with a suspended or revoked license. A court can also order you to complete a driver improvement course as part of a sentence or as a condition of reinstating your license after a suspension.
Some states allow you to take a driver improvement course voluntarily, even if the DMV has not required it. Taking the course on your own initiative can sometimes reduce your insurance rates or prevent points from being added to your record in the first place. Check with your state DMV to see if this option is available to you.
How to find an approved provider in your state
Your state DMV maintains a list of approved driver improvement course providers. This list is usually available on the DMV website under a section labeled "Approved Driving Schools," "Traffic Safety Courses," or "Point Reduction Courses." Do not enroll in a course from a provider that is not on this list — the DMV will not recognize it, and you will have to take another course.
When you find a provider, confirm that they are approved to teach the specific type of course you need. Some providers offer only in-person courses, while others offer online courses. Some states restrict online courses to certain violations or age groups, so check your state's rules before enrolling. The provider should be able to tell you whether their course meets your state's requirements.
You can take the course in your home state or, in some cases, in another state if you are traveling. However, the course must still be approved by your home state's DMV. If you are unsure whether an out-of-state course will be recognized, contact your state DMV before enrolling.
What the course covers and how long it takes
A driver improvement course covers topics such as traffic laws, safe driving techniques, hazard recognition, the effects of alcohol and drugs on driving, and the consequences of traffic violations. The exact curriculum varies by state and provider, but all approved courses must meet your state's minimum standards for content and instruction time.
Most courses take between four and eight hours to complete. In-person courses are usually taught in a single session or spread over two or three evenings. Online courses allow you to work at your own pace, though you must complete all material within a set time frame — typically 30 to 90 days from enrollment. Some online courses require you to pass a quiz or test at the end to prove you have learned the material.
The course is designed for adult drivers and assumes you already know how to drive. It is not a behind-the-wheel driving lesson. If you need actual driving instruction, you will need to enroll in a separate driver training program.
Cost and how to pay
Driver improvement courses typically cost between $20 and $100, depending on whether you take it in person or online and which provider you choose. Online courses are usually less expensive than in-person courses. Some community colleges offer courses at the lower end of this range, while private driving schools may charge more.
You pay the course provider directly, not the DMV. Most providers accept credit cards, debit cards, and sometimes checks or cash. Some allow you to pay in installments. Ask the provider about their payment options and refund policy before you enroll — some will refund your money if you cancel before the course starts, while others will not.
Your insurance company may offer a discount if you complete a driver improvement course, but you will have to ask them about it. The discount is not automatic, and it varies by insurance company and policy. Some insurers offer a 5 to 10 percent discount, while others offer less. Keep your course completion certificate so you can show it to your insurance company.
What happens after you complete the course
When you finish the course, the provider will give you a completion certificate. This certificate proves to the DMV and your insurance company that you have taken the course. Keep this certificate in a safe place — you may need to show it to your insurance company or the DMV.
The provider will also send a copy of your completion certificate to the DMV, usually within a few days or weeks. Check your state's DMV website or contact the DMV directly to confirm that they have received your certificate. If the DMV does not receive it, you may be penalized even though you completed the course.
The effect on your driving record depends on your state. In some states, the course removes a certain number of points from your record. In others, it prevents points from being added in the first place. In still others, it straightforward satisfies a requirement to keep your license active. Your state DMV will explain what the course does for your specific situation.
Scam alerts and how to avoid problems
Be cautious of websites or companies that claim they can take the course for you or that may provide your points will be removed. These are scams. You must take the course yourself, and the DMV will not remove points based on a certificate from an unapproved provider. If a company claims they can do this, do not give them your money or personal information.
Do not take a course from a provider that is not on your state DMV's approved list, even if it is cheaper or more convenient. The DMV will not recognize it, and you will have wasted your money. Always check the official DMV website before enrolling.
Be aware that some online courses may ask you to provide your driver's license number or other personal information. This is normal and necessary for the provider to verify your identity and send your completion certificate to the DMV. However, never provide your Social Security number unless the provider explains why they need it and you have confirmed with the DMV that this is standard practice in your state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take a driver improvement course online?
Many states allow online driver improvement courses, but not all. Check your state DMV website to see if online courses are available for your situation. If they are, make sure the provider you choose is on your state's approved list. Online courses typically take four to eight hours and allow you to work at your own pace.
Will taking a driver improvement course remove points from my record?
It depends on your state. Some states remove a set number of points (often three to four) when you complete the course. Others prevent points from being added in the first place. A few states do not remove points but allow you to take the course to satisfy a requirement. Contact your state DMV to learn what the course will do for your record.
What if I do not complete the course by the important date?
If you have been ordered by the DMV or a court to take the course and you do not complete it by the important date, your license may be suspended or revoked. Contact the DMV when ready if you are having trouble completing the course by the important date — they may be able to extend it in some cases.
Do I have to take the course in person, or can I do it online?
This depends on your state and the reason you are required to take the course. Some states allow online courses for all violations, while others restrict them to certain types of violations or require in-person courses for serious violations. Check your state DMV website or the notice you received from the DMV to see which option is available to you.
Will my insurance company give me a discount for taking the course?
Many insurance companies offer discounts for completing a driver improvement course, but the discount is not automatic. Contact your insurance company and ask if they offer a discount. If they do, provide them with your course completion certificate. The discount amount varies by company and policy.