Looking to get a ticket dismissed or lower your insurance premium in Lubbock, Texas? Defensive driving courses may be the key. But do you qualify? Further, where and how do you take the courses? Read on to learn all you need to know.
How Can You Take Defensive Driving in Lubbock, Texas?
Defensive driving courses are offered in Lubbock, Texas both in physical classrooms and online. If you opt for a course in the classroom, you'll have to find a state-approved course provider near you. Then, you'll have to register and go to the physical location at the designated time to complete the course.
If you opt for an online course, you'll still need to find a state-approved course provider, like I Drive Safely. However, you can complete the lessons through a web browser or mobile device from anywhere, on your schedule.
How Do Defensive Driving Courses Work in Lubbock, Texas?
In Texas, defensive driving courses are designed to help improve your knowledge, attitude, and perception about driving. The benefit of taking these courses is that, in some cases, the court will dismiss a ticket when you submit proof of course completion. However, you have to get permission first.
Defensive Driving Course Eligibility
To find out if you are eligible for a defensive driving course in Texas, you'll need to ask the court. You can do this over the phone, in writing, or in person before the appearance date on your ticket. To qualify, you must:
Plead guilty or no-contest to the violation
Have a valid driver's license (non-commercial)
Not have completed a defensive driving course in the last year
Not have committed the infraction in a construction zone
Not have been going 25 mph or more over the speed limit
If the court approves your request, you will need to pay the court fees and file the requested paperwork. Then, it will specify which defensive driving course you need to take.
Traditional Driving Safety Course
In most cases, you'll need to take the Traditional Driving Safety Course. It's a six-hour program and does not require a final exam. With I Drive Safely, it's broken down into a series of short chapters with animated graphics and short, multiple-choice quizzes. You can also choose between multiple course formats including video, audio, and text-based. While the course is self-paced, be sure to complete it by the deadline provided by the court.
Specialized Seatbelt Course
It's important to note that if your violation involved not wearing a seatbelt, you may be required to take the Specialized Seatbelt course instead of the traditional one. This is also a six-hour program, however, it focuses on the use of seatbelts, other occupant restraint systems, and child passenger safety seat systems.
After the Course
Once you complete the course, you'll need to submit the certificate of completion (given by your course provider) and an official copy of your Texas driving record to the court.
Get an Insurance Discount
If you have a clean driving record, you may be able to get a discount on your insurance by completing a defensive driving course. Contact your auto insurance company, and ask if you're eligible to receive the discount. If your insurer gives you the green light, then enroll in the Traditional Driving Safety Course, complete it, and submit your certificate of completion to your insurer. From there, they should apply your discount or let you know when it will apply.
Take Defensive Driving in Lubbock, Texas Today!
Ready to take care of your defensive driving course? You no longer have to sit in a stuffy classroom for one to two days with a bunch of strangers. Once you get the go-ahead from the court or your auto-insurer, you can enroll online and complete it from home in as little as one day!