Yes, you can request traffic school if you meet specific eligibility requirements. Typically, traffic school is available to drivers who have committed minor infractions, such as speeding or running a stop sign. However, whether you’re eligible to request traffic school depends on your jurisdiction and the nature of your violation. For instance, serious offenses like DUI, reckless driving, or repeat violations often disqualify drivers from attending. If you’re eligible and your request is approved, completing traffic school can prevent points from being added to your driving record and help keep your insurance premiums from increasing.

Determine Eligibility for Traffic School 

In California, you can request traffic school if you meet specific eligibility requirements. The state offers traffic school for minor infractions, such as speeding or running a red light, as long as the violation is not too serious. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Eligible Violations: You must have committed a minor moving violation, such as speeding or failing to stop at a stop sign. Non-moving violations, like parking tickets, do not qualify.
  • No Traffic School in the Last 18 Months: If you have completed traffic school for another violation within the last 18 months, you are not eligible. The 18-month period is measured from the violation date, not the completion date of the previous traffic school.
  • Non-Serious Violations: Serious offenses, such as DUI, reckless driving, or violations that carry a mandatory court appearance, disqualify you from attending traffic school.
  • Not a Commercial Driver: If you have a commercial driver’s license (CDL), you are not eligible to attend traffic school for violations that occurred while driving a commercial vehicle.

California courts automatically notify you of your eligibility when you receive your ticket. If eligible, you can choose traffic school to avoid having points added to your driving record. However, attending traffic school does not dismiss the fine; you will still be responsible for paying both the fine and the traffic school fee.

For specific information on your eligibility, you can check the traffic court’s website or review the instructions on your traffic ticket.

The Traffic School Request Process (California-Specific)

Once you’ve determined that you’re eligible for traffic school in California, the next step is submitting your request. California courts have a straightforward process, but it’s essential to follow each step carefully to ensure your request is approved. Here is a step-by-step guide for California residents:

Step 1: Review Your Traffic Ticket for Eligibility Information

When you receive your traffic ticket, check if the court has indicated that you are eligible for traffic school. The ticket will often have information about whether you can attend traffic school and the deadline by which you need to submit your request.

Step 2: Plead Guilty or No Contest

You must plead guilty or no contest to the violation in order to attend traffic school. This means you are accepting responsibility for the violation, but attending traffic school will help you avoid having points added to your driving record.

Step 3: Choose a Method to Request Traffic School

Option 1: Request Online

  • Most California courts allow you to request traffic school online. Visit the court’s website listed on your traffic ticket, log in using your citation number or case number, and follow the instructions.
  • Select the option for traffic school and pay the required court fee, which is typically around $50, along with the fine for your ticket.

Option 2: Request by Mail

  • You can also request traffic school by mail. Fill out the form included with your ticket (if applicable), or write a letter indicating that you plead guilty and wish to attend traffic school.
  • Include the full payment for your ticket along with the traffic school fee. Mail the documents to the court address listed on your ticket before the deadline.

Option 3: Request In-Person at the Courthouse

  • If you prefer, you can go to the courthouse in person and request traffic school. This is typically done at your arraignment or at a scheduled court appearance.
  • Inform the clerk or judge that you plead guilty or no contest and would like to attend traffic school. Pay your fines and fees at the courthouse.

Step 4: Pay Your Fine and Court Fees

When requesting traffic school, you are required to pay both the fine for the ticket and the traffic school administrative fee (usually around $50). These fees must be paid at the same time you submit your request, whether online, by mail, or in person.

Step 5: Receive Approval and Instructions from the Court

After you submit your request, the court will approve or deny it. If approved, you will receive a notice confirming your eligibility to attend traffic school along with a deadline by which you must complete the course (typically 60-90 days). The court may provide a list of approved traffic schools, or you can find approved schools on the California DMV website.

Step 6: Enroll in a DMV-Approved Traffic School

Once approved by the court, choose a DMV-approved traffic school. You can complete traffic school either online or in person. Most people opt for the online option for convenience, but the choice is yours.

Step 7: Complete the Course and Submit Proof

Complete the traffic school course by the deadline provided by the court. After you finish, the traffic school will electronically submit a certificate of completion to the court.You will need to follow up to ensure the court received confirmation of your course completion. Some courts may require you to provide additional proof, such as a copy of your certificate.

Step 8: Verify Your Case Status with the Court

After your traffic school completion has been processed, check with the court to confirm that no points will be added to your driving record. This can be done online or by calling the court.

Important Notes:

  • Deadlines: Make sure to submit your traffic school request before the deadline indicated on your ticket. Missing this deadline can result in losing the option to attend traffic school.
  • Fees: In addition to the court and fine fees, you will need to pay for the traffic school itself. Prices for online traffic school courses usually range from $20 to $50.

By following these steps, you can successfully request and complete traffic school in California, helping you avoid points on your driving record and maintain lower insurance rates.

What Happens After You Request Traffic School?

Once your request has been submitted, the court will review it. If approved, you’ll typically receive notification of your traffic school assignment via email or mail. Here’s what happens next:

  • Approval Confirmation: You’ll receive instructions on how to complete traffic school, along with a deadline to finish the course and provide proof of completion.
  • Fee Payment: Be prepared to pay both a court fee (for approving your traffic school request) and a traffic school fee (charged by the course provider). These fees vary by location.
  • Denial of Request: If your request is denied, the court will usually inform you of your other options, such as paying the ticket or contesting it in court.

If you plan to fight the ticket in court, you might still be eligible for traffic school if the judge rules in your favor.

Options to Complete Traffic School 

Once your request for traffic school has been approved, California provides several options for you to complete the course. Depending on your preference, you can choose between online or in-person classes, and each option offers flexibility. Here is a comprehensive look at your options:

Option 1: Online Traffic School (best option)

Online traffic school is by far the most popular option for California residents due to its convenience and flexibility. Here’s how it works:

  • Flexible Schedule: You can log in at any time and complete the course at your own pace. This is especially helpful for individuals with busy work schedules or other commitments.
  • Duration: Most online traffic schools in California take between 4-8 hours to complete. However, since it’s self-paced, you can break the course into multiple sessions or complete it all at once, depending on your schedule.
  • Content: The online courses are interactive and typically include reading materials, quizzes, and videos to cover the essential traffic laws and driving practices.
  • Final Exam: At the end of the course, you’ll be required to pass a final exam. The exam is usually multiple choice and covers the materials from the course. Most courses allow you multiple attempts to pass if necessary.
  • Automatic Certificate Submission: Once you pass the final exam, the traffic school provider will automatically send your completion certificate to the court electronically. You’ll also receive a confirmation of your completion, which you should keep for your records.
  • Cost: Online traffic school costs typically range from $20 to $50 depending on the provider, with some offering discount codes.

Online traffic school is a great option for people who prefer to complete the course from the comfort of their own home and at their own pace.

Option 2: In-Person Traffic School

While online courses are the most common option, some individuals prefer or are required to attend traffic school in person. Here’s what to expect:

  • Scheduled Classes: In-person traffic schools have set class times and dates, so you’ll need to register for a course that fits your schedule. These classes are usually held on weekends or evenings for convenience.
  • Course Length: Like online courses, in-person traffic schools typically take 4-8 hours to complete, usually in one full day or split into two sessions.
  • Class Format: The course is taught by an instructor and involves a combination of lectures, videos, and group discussions. This option can be beneficial if you prefer a more structured learning environment or enjoy interacting with an instructor.
  • Final Exam: At the end of the in-person course, you’ll be required to take and pass a final exam similar to the one in online traffic school.
  • Certificate Submission: The traffic school will submit your completion certificate to the court after you pass the exam. Ensure the school provides you with confirmation of submission, and keep a copy for your records.
  • Cost: In-person traffic school can be more expensive than online options, usually ranging from $30 to $70.

In-person traffic school may be a better fit for individuals who prefer face-to-face instruction or are uncomfortable using computers for online courses.

Option 3: Home Study Course

Some traffic schools in California offer a home study option, where you receive a booklet or DVD that covers the required material. Here’s how it works:

  • Study at Your Own Pace: With the home study option, you’ll receive the course materials (usually via mail) and can study at your own pace, much like the online option. You’ll need to review the booklet or watch the DVD to prepare for the final test.
  • Final Exam: In most cases, the final exam will be completed online or over the phone. Some schools may also offer the option to mail in the exam after you’ve completed it.
  • Certificate Submission: Just like with online or in-person options, the school will submit your certificate to the court upon completion. Make sure to verify that the school you choose is DMV-approved and sends the certificate electronically.
  • Cost: The cost for home study traffic school is usually comparable to online options, typically ranging from $20 to $50.

The home study option is ideal for individuals who prefer not to complete the course on a computer but still want the flexibility to study at home.

How to Choose the Right Option for You

Choosing between online, in-person, and home study traffic school depends on your personal preferences and needs:

  • Online Traffic School: Best for convenience, flexibility, and those comfortable with digital learning.
  • In-Person Traffic School: Best for individuals who prefer a classroom setting or need more structure and interaction.
  • Home Study Traffic School: Best for those who prefer offline study but still want the flexibility to complete the course from home.

Deadlines and Certificate Submission

Regardless of which option you choose, you must complete the traffic school by the deadline provided by the court (usually within 60-90 days of your request). After completion, the traffic school will submit your certificate to the court electronically, but it’s always a good idea to verify that the court received it. Some courts also allow you to track your status online, so make sure to check if this feature is available in your jurisdiction.

Cost Considerations

In addition to the traffic school cost, remember that California courts also charge a separate administrative fee (usually around $50) that must be paid when you request traffic school. Make sure to budget for both the traffic school fee and the court fee.

By carefully selecting the best traffic school option and ensuring timely completion, you can fulfill the court’s requirements, avoid points on your driving record, and minimize the impact on your insurance premiums.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traffic School Requests

How do I know if I can go to traffic school?
You can usually request traffic school if you committed a minor traffic violation and haven’t attended traffic school in the past 18-24 months. Check your court’s rules for more specific guidelines.

How much does traffic school cost?
Costs vary, but you’ll typically pay both a court fee (usually $50-$100) and a traffic school fee (around $20-$50 for an online course).

Can I request traffic school after the deadline?
It depends on the court, but in most cases, once you’ve missed the deadline, you’ll no longer be eligible for traffic school. It’s important to submit your request as soon as possible.

Does traffic school remove the ticket from my record?
Traffic school doesn’t “erase” the ticket, but it does prevent points from being added to your driving record, which can help keep your insurance rates from increasing.

What happens if I fail to complete traffic school on time?
If you don’t complete traffic school by the deadline, your ticket will be processed, points will be added to your record, and you may face additional penalties.

Taking Advantage of Traffic School

In conclusion, traffic school can be an excellent option for drivers who want to reduce the impact of a traffic ticket. By ensuring you’re eligible, submitting a timely request, and completing the course on time, you can keep your driving record clean and potentially save on insurance costs. Be sure to follow your court’s specific guidelines to make the process as smooth as possible.