TRAFFIC SCHOOLS

Traffic schools are designed to help you learn defensive driving techniques that will make you a safer driver. They also help you get an in-depth understanding of the laws.

In Michigan people usually enroll in driver traffic schools:

• Because of court orders after a traffic violation; or
• To receive insurance discounts.

However Michigan gives a lot of importance to driver education and all public schools have driver education courses. For adults the Michigan Secretary of State's website provides a list of approved driver education providers. While these are basically meant for you to get your license, they may also provide safe driver classes. You may also contact the local Michigan SOS office and get a list of approved safe driver courses before you enroll in one. If the clinic has been court-ordered, please ensure that the court will accept a certificate of completion from an online course, before enrolling in a computer based one. Note: Michigan courts do not usually give you the option of attending traffic schools as a way to dismiss traffic tickets and you do not get any point credits.

BENEFITS

Some insurance companies may offer premium discounts to drivers completing safe driving courses. Please check with your insurance representative to see if you qualify for this discount. You may not be eligible for insurance premium discounts if the course has been court ordered.

WHEN IS IT MANDATORY?

Either the court or the SoS (when notified by the courts) may order you to successfully complete a driver improvement program when you have been convicted of a moving or traffic violation. It is under the court's discretion as to whether or not you will be mandated to take one of these courses.

FEES

The cost of these courses vary between the different providers. Please contact course providers for more details on individual pricing.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• If you are looking for information on how to get your license or permit, see Driver's Education.
• Please click on defensive driving schools for details about other safe driving courses.
• When studying for your driver's license/permit, use the driver's manual to help you learn about safe driving techniques and traffic laws.
• For more licensing and safe-driving information for beginning drivers, see learner's permits.