[edit] TRAFFIC SCHOOLS

In the state of Missouri, there are three reasons why people enroll in traffic schools:

• After a traffic violation where demerit points were awarded, the court will order the driver to take a course at a traffic/driving school to improve their safe-driving skills.
• To receive insurance discounts.
• To receive points credits on driving records.

This program is designed to help you to learn defensive driving techniques that will make you a safer driver. There are various safe driver courses being offered in Missouri, some of them online. Contact your local Department of Revenue MVDL office for information on approved courses. 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. A standard course is of eight hour duration and you may take one every three years for the following benefits.

[edit] BENEFITS

Any driver completing a driver improvement program receive the following benefits:

• Insurance Benefits - some insurance companies may offer premium discounts. Please check with your insurance representative to see if you qualify for this discount.
• Point credits on your driving record - by completing a department approved driver program you can erase points earned from traffic violations.

Note: If the course has been court ordered you may not be eligible for the insurance premium discount.

[edit] WHEN IS IT MANDATORY?

Either the court or the MVDL (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] SATOP - SUBSTANCE ABUSE TRAFFIC OFFENDER PROGRAM

This program is a mandatory requirement for drivers whose driving privileges are suspended or revoked for substance abuse traffic offences. Only drivers who complete this program will have their licenses reinstated. Visit the SATOP website for a list of approved programs.

[edit] FEES

Depending on the course and the location, the fees may vary. Please contact the provider for more details on individual pricing.

[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.