How Often Can You Take Defensive Driving in Texas?

Whether you're a seasoned driver or just starting out, keeping a clean driving record is crucial in Texas. One of the best ways to do this, especially after receiving a traffic ticket, is by taking a defensive driving course. But the question many drivers have is: How often can you take defensive driving in Texas?

At Get Drivers Ed, we aim to provide drivers with clear and accurate information to help them make smart decisions on the road. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about defensive driving courses in Texas, when you’re eligible to take them, and how they can benefit you.

1. What Is Defensive Driving?
The Purpose of Defensive Driving Courses

A defensive driving course is a specialized program designed to teach drivers how to prevent accidents and avoid dangerous situations on the road. In Texas, these courses are often taken for two reasons:
Ticket Dismissal: Many Texas drivers opt for defensive driving to dismiss a traffic ticket and prevent points from being added to their driving record.
Insurance Discounts: Some insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who complete a certified defensive driving course.

Defensive driving courses teach important skills such as how to anticipate the actions of other drivers, how to handle different road conditions, and how to avoid distractions while driving. By improving your driving habits, you can reduce the chances of being involved in an accident or receiving another traffic ticket.
At Get Drivers Ed, we offer state-approved Texas defensive driving courses that are designed to help you improve your skills and stay safe on the road.

2. How Often Can You Take Defensive Driving in Texas?
Texas Rules for Defensive Driving Frequency

In Texas, you are allowed to take a defensive driving course to dismiss a traffic ticket once every 12 months. This means that if you receive another ticket within 12 months of completing a defensive driving course, you will not be eligible to take the course again to dismiss the second ticket.

For example, if you completed a defensive driving course in June of one year, you will not be eligible to take another course for ticket dismissal until June of the following year. If you receive a ticket before that 12-month period has passed, you will have to handle it through other means, such as paying the fine or contesting the ticket in court.

It's important to note that the 12-month rule applies to ticket dismissal only. If you're taking a defensive driving course for insurance purposes, you can typically take the course as often as your insurance provider allows, which may be more frequent than once a year. Always check with your insurance company for specific details on how often you can take a course for a discount.

How the Courts Track Your Defensive Driving

Texas courts keep records of defensive driving courses completed for ticket dismissal. When you take a defensive driving course, you are required to submit a certificate of completion to the court handling your case. This ensures that you meet the requirements for ticket dismissal. The courts will then track when you last completed the course to determine your eligibility for future dismissals.
If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible to take defensive driving, you can contact the court where your ticket was issued. They can inform you of your current eligibility based on their records. Additionally, your driving record will reflect whether you’ve taken a defensive driving course within the last year.

3. The Benefits of Taking Defensive Driving
Dismissing Tickets and Avoiding Points

One of the main reasons drivers opt for a defensive driving course in Texas is to dismiss a traffic ticket and avoid points on their driving record. Points are added to your driving record for traffic violations, and accumulating too many points can result in penalties such as fines or license suspension. By successfully completing a defensive driving course, you can have the ticket dismissed and prevent those points from being added.

Lowering Your Insurance Rates

Another significant benefit of defensive driving courses is the potential for lower insurance premiums. Many insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who complete a state-approved defensive driving course. These discounts can range from 5% to 10% and are a great way to save money, especially if your driving record is clean.

At Get Drivers Ed, our Texas online defensive driving course is recognized by many insurance companies for discounts. Be sure to check with your provider to see how much you can save.
Learning Valuable Driving Skills

Beyond ticket dismissal and insurance savings, defensive driving courses teach valuable skills that can make you a safer driver. From handling hazardous weather conditions to avoiding distractions and understanding the importance of road etiquette, these courses give drivers the tools they need to reduce the risk of accidents.
By taking the time to complete a defensive driving course, you not only improve your driving habits but also become more aware of the potential hazards on the road.

4. How to Enroll in a Defensive Driving Course
Choosing the Right Course

In Texas, defensive driving courses are offered both in-person and online. While both options cover the same material, online courses offer greater flexibility and convenience. With an online course, you can complete the program at your own pace, from the comfort of your home, without having to attend a classroom session.
At Get Drivers Ed, we offer a state-approved Texas defensive driving course that is designed to be engaging, informative, and easy to complete. Our course covers all the essential topics, including traffic laws, accident prevention, and safe driving techniques.

Submitting Your Certificate to the Court or Insurance Provider

Once you’ve completed your Texas defensive driving course, you’ll receive a certificate of completion. If you’re taking the course for ticket dismissal, this certificate must be submitted to the court by the deadline provided on your ticket. Failing to submit the certificate on time may result in the ticket going on your record, so it’s essential to follow the court's instructions carefully.

If you’re taking the course for an insurance discount, submit the certificate to your insurance company according to their guidelines. This will ensure that you receive your discount promptly.

Conclusion: Stay Informed and Drive Safely with Defensive Driving

So, how often can you take defensive driving in Texas? For ticket dismissal, the answer is once every 12 months, but if you’re taking the course for insurance purposes, you may be able to take it more frequently, depending on your provider’s policies. No matter your reason, completing a defensive driving course is a great way to stay safe on the road, dismiss tickets, and save money on insurance.
At Get Drivers Ed, we’re committed to helping drivers across Texas improve their skills and maintain clean driving records. Sign up for our Texas defensive driving course today to enjoy the benefits of ticket dismissal, insurance savings, and better driving habits. Stay safe and drive smart with Get Drivers Ed!