What Is a Driving Safety Course in Texas?
A driving safety course is an educational program designed to help drivers improve their knowledge of traffic laws, develop safer driving habits, and reduce the risk of accidents. In Texas, driving safety courses are commonly used for ticket dismissal and insurance discounts.
This guide explains what a driving safety course is, what it covers, who needs one in Texas, and how it is typically used.
What does a driving safety course teach?
Driving safety courses focus on defensive driving techniques and traffic law awareness. While course content can vary slightly by provider, most Texas-approved courses cover:
- Texas traffic laws and violations
- Defensive driving strategies
- Hazard recognition and avoidance
- Safe following distances and speed management
- Driving in adverse weather and road conditions
The goal is to help drivers make safer decisions and reduce risky behaviors behind the wheel.
Why are driving safety courses required in Texas?
Texas courts and insurance companies use driving safety courses as a way to encourage safer driving while offering incentives. These incentives may include:
- Dismissal of certain traffic tickets
- Reduced points or record impact in some situations
- Insurance premium discounts
The course allows drivers to correct behavior without harsher penalties, provided they meet all requirements.
Is a driving safety course the same as defensive driving?
In most Texas cases, yes. The terms “driving safety course” and “defensive driving course” are often used interchangeably. Courts tend to use the term “driving safety course,” while insurers and providers commonly say “defensive driving.”
As long as the course is approved and meets Texas requirements, the name usually does not affect acceptance.
For a detailed comparison, see: Is defensive driving the same as a driver’s safety course?
Who needs to take a driving safety course?
Drivers in Texas may be required or choose to take a driving safety course for several reasons:
- Drivers seeking ticket dismissal after court approval
- Drivers looking to lower insurance premiums
- Drivers wanting to refresh their driving skills
If the course is taken for a ticket, court permission is usually required before enrollment.
How long is a driving safety course?
Texas driving safety courses must meet state length requirements. Most approved courses take several hours to complete and include a final quiz or exam to confirm comprehension.
Completion time can vary depending on whether the course is taken online or in person.
To learn how long a course remains valid, see: How long is a defensive driving course good for?
Are online driving safety courses accepted?
Many Texas driving safety courses are available online and are widely accepted by courts and insurers, as long as they are approved and meet specific requirements. Always confirm acceptance before enrolling, especially if the course is court-ordered.
Spanish-language options are also available: Defensive driving course online en español.
Common questions about driving safety courses
Can a driving safety course dismiss a ticket?
Yes, in many cases—but only with court approval and proper certificate submission.
Does a driving safety course remove points from my license?
It depends on your situation. Learn more here:
Does defensive driving remove points in Texas?
How do I know if a course is accepted?
Courses must be approved and meet court or insurer requirements. This guide explains how to verify acceptance:
How to know if a Texas driving safety course is accepted.
To compare approved providers, visit: TDLR-approved driving safety courses in Texas.