[edit] TRAFFIC SCHOOLS

In Minnesota, traffic schools or driver improvement clinics 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 Minnesota people usually enroll in driver improvement clinics:

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

There are various courses and clinics for drivers in Minnesota, some of them even online. Click here for a list of DVS approved driver clinics. 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. Minnesota DVS also provides a list of approved Accident Prevention Courses meant for drivers aged 55 and above. By taking this four hour refresher course you get a mandatory insurance premium reduction. Note: Minnesota courts do not usually give you the option of attending traffic schools as a way to dismiss traffic tickets and since Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) does not have a point system there is no question of any point credits.

[edit] BENEFITS

Any driver can enroll in a Driver Improvement Clinic at any time to improve driving skills and to get an insurance premium reduction. 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.

[edit] WHEN IS IT MANDATORY?

Either the court or the DVS (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 clinics.

[edit] FEES

Contact a clinic in your locality for information on fees and schedules.

[edit] 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.