How to Enroll in Online Traffic School

An online traffic school may be the perfect solution for those who need to enroll and pass a defensive driving course but lack the time to attend a face-to-face workshop. Generally approved by the DMV, online traffic schools offer a variety of courses, most of which can be completed in a few hours and require no previous knowledge or additional materials.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Find an online traffic school approved by your state. When you log into an online traffic school website, it should state whether it has been approved to offer credits and point-reduction in your area.

2. Select your state. Online traffic schools usually provide a drop-down menu that includes all US states. You should choose the state where you received your traffic violation (not the state where your license is from) and then select the judicial district or county that gave you the citation (it should be noted on your ticket).

3. Note the court that gave you the citation and where you are required to appear or pay for the fine. This is important, as many online traffic schools send the final certification directly to court, rather than to you.

4. Choose the "non-specific location" option if you are looking to enroll in an online traffic school as a way of reducing your insurance premiums or as part of a defensive driving course. First confirm that your insurance company or driving schools allows for online courses, and will recognize the certificate.

5. Confirm that the price shown on the screen matches your location (state and county). Prices vary widely around the country, and if you underpay because you chose the wrong location, you will not be able to exchange the course for another one later. Certifications are not transferable from one location to the next.

6. Provide your personal information (name, address, license number) and pay for the course. You usually can pay with a credit card over the Internet, although some companies may accept phone payments or PayPal transfers.

Tips & Warnings

• Enroll in an online school that allows you to pay after you pass the exam. Many now offer this option, which means you don't spend money unless you are approved for a certificate.
• Keep a copy of your certificate or passing marks. Even if the school sends the certificate directly to the court or insurance company, you should get an email or page informing you of your marks. Request one if you don't.