[edit] TRAFFIC SCHOOLS

In the state of West Virginia, traffic schools are often referred to as ‘Defensive Driving Courses' (DDC). There are three reasons why people enroll in the DDC:

• After a traffic violation where demerit points were awarded, the court will orders the driver to take a course at a traffic/driving school to improve their safe-driving skills.
• To receive insurance discounts.
• To reduce demerit points from your driving record.

This program is designed to help you to learn defensive driving techniques that will make you a safer driver. The DDC is an eight hour course and there are various locations and online clinics offered in West Virginia. 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 DDC.

[edit] BENEFITS

Any driver can enroll in a Defensive Driving Course at any time to 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 Reduction - you may be able to deduct up to three demerit points for 48 months if you complete a course.

[edit] WHEN IS IT MANDATORY?

Either the court or the DMV (when notified by the courts) may order you to successfully complete a defensive driving course 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.

[edit] FEES

Please contact the course locations for more details on individual pricing, as fees vary between locations.

[edit] ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• For more information visit the section on Point System and Defensive Driving Courses at the DMV website or call (800) 642-9066.
• 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.