Getting a speeding ticket can feel like a punch to the gut, especially if you’ve never had one before. Your mind starts racing: Will my insurance go up? Am I getting points on my license? Can I get this dismissed?
There IS good news. In many cases, taking a defensive driving course can help minimize the consequences or even get the ticket dismissed altogether. But whether that’s possible depends on where you live and the type of violation you received.
Let’s break it down, step by step.
Can a Defensive Driving Course Dismiss a Speeding Ticket?
Short answer: Yes it can. Sometimes.
The longer answer? Taking defensive driving to dismiss a ticket is an option in several states, but the rules vary. In some cases, the course can erase the ticket entirely. In others, it won’t remove the citation, but it can prevent points from hitting your license or help you qualify for an insurance discount.
So even if your state doesn’t allow full dismissal, taking a defensive driving course for a speeding ticket is still a smart move.
Which States Allow Ticket Dismissal with a Defensive Driving Course?
Laws vary, but several states—including Florida and New York—have popular programs for defensive driving to dismiss tickets or reduce points.
- Florida: Drivers cited for a non-criminal moving violation (like speeding) may be eligible to take a Basic Driver Improvement (BDI) course to avoid license points. In some counties, you may also be eligible for ticket dismissal, but always confirm with the court.
- New York: The Point and Insurance Reduction Program (PIRP) lets you complete a state-approved course to reduce up to 4 points from your driving record and possibly get a 10% insurance discount. It won’t erase your ticket, but it makes a big difference long term.
Texas, Virginia, and Arizona have similar programs which offer some form of point reduction, dismissal, or insurance benefits depending on the circumstances of your ticket, your driving record at the time, and the judge who hears the case.
Always check with your court or local DMV to confirm if you’re eligible for ticket dismissal.
Is Defensive Driving Worth It? Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Minor tickets can oftentimes be dismissed entirely, depending on the state
- It’s possible to avoid points on your driving record
- You can lower your insurance premiums
- There are convenient online class options
- The classes help you become a safer, more confident driver
Cons:
- You’ll need to pay for the course
- Some states don’t allow ticket dismissal
- Repeat or serious violations (like DUI or reckless driving) usually aren’t eligible
- You must complete the course within a court-approved timeframe
Still, completing a course is often far less expensive than the long-term cost of increased insurance premiums.
How to Choose the Right Defensive Driving Course
Not all traffic schools are created equal and some are straight-up misleading. Here’s how to make sure you’re signing up for a legitimate and worthwhile experience:
- Make sure the course is approved in your state
- Confirm you’ll receive a certificate of completion
- For maximum convenience, look for an online learning option
- Make sure the course comes with clear, upfront pricing (no shady fees at checkout)
Beware of traffic schools advertising $5.95 courses. It might look cheap upfront, but by the time you hit “confirm” on the purchase page, you could be paying $40 or more thanks to add-on fees. Stick with trusted names like American Safety Institute, where pricing is transparent and courses are approved by all the important state agencies.
Next Steps: What You Should Do Now
Here’s how to handle your ticket the smart way:
- Call the court or DMV listed on your ticket to confirm your eligibility
- Ask about deadlines (some courts give you 30 to 90 days to complete the course)
- Choose a trusted provider with state-approved courses (like ASI)
- Enroll and complete the course online
- Submit your certificate to the court or DMV before your deadline
Taking a defensive driving course for a speeding ticket isn’t a magic wand, but it’s one of the smartest moves you can make after receiving a citation. And the sooner you take action, the more options you’ll have and the less chance your ticket will affect your record or your wallet.
Take the first step toward putting this ticket behind you. Learn more about an online defensive driver’s course with American Safety Institute.
