Attending a traffic school can prevent points from being placed on your driving record after a traffic infraction. It is an unpleasant burden for most people, but if you do need to attend one for any reason, consider an online course as one of the fastest and easiest routes.
There are many online traffic schools, so be sure to choose one that is accredited by your state motor vehicle agency and the local court, or your completion of the course may not be considered valid.
Benefits of Attending Traffic School Online
The primary benefits of attending an online traffic school rather than completing the course at a brick and mortar location are:
You do not need to travel to attend. Courses can be completed in a few hours in the comfort of your home.
You can log in and out of the session, and take your time to complete the course within your own schedule.
Most online traffic schools send verification of completion directly to the motor vehicle agency in your state, saving you the time and effort of filing this paperwork yourself.
You do need access to a computer and the internet to attend an online traffic school. If you do not have a computer, consider using a friend’s, or go to your local library.
Finding an Online Traffic School
Ask at the courthouse that issued the traffic ticket if they have a list of approved traffic schools in your area. It is crucial to choose a school acceptable to your local jurisdiction. Alternatively, research online and find a locally accredited school with a good reputation.
After enrolling in a course, most courts require you to spend a certain amount of time reading and taking quizzes, and the online school will track your work. The course work can usually be completed in about two to six hours, depending on the requirements in your jurisdiction.
The Cost of Online Traffic School
Traffic school costs money, but most schools do not charge high fees. In most cases, you pay a fee for the online course and a separate fee if you want the school to file your certificate of completion for you. This small cost is offset by the hundreds or even thousands of dollars you save by preventing points on your license, which can lead to insurance hikes and other issues.
