Traffic Schools

Virginia's Department of Motor Vehicle's (DMV) offers a defensive driving course called Driver Improvement Clinics.

Benefits

Successful completion of this course will earn you five safety points. These points can be used to trim demerit points on your driving record. Or, if your record is currently clean, you can hold on to these points and apply them, if needed, towards any future traffic violations.

The class does not dismiss tickets. The power to dismiss tickets resides with your court.

The class can help reduce insurance premiums. This is an either or situation, however. You either enroll in this course to curb insurance costs or to receive five safety points. You cannot earn both benefits. If you do opt for the insurance benefit be sure to contact your insurance carrier before enrolling to confirm recognition of this class.

Clinic Specifics

Eight-hour classes are held at various locations throughout the state. Times and fees vary with each location. Expect to pay around $75.

If you are older than 20 you can "attend" a clinic via a computer-based class. If you are court-ordered to enroll in a clinic you must check with the court first to see if it will allow you to complete the class online.

For more information call (877) 885-5790.

Court-Ordered Enrollment

If enrollment is mandated by a court, you must successfully complete the clinic within 90 days. Failure to do so will result in your license being suspended until course completion. Out-of-state students and military personnel are eligible for extensions on the 90-day limit.