As outlined in our Arizona Defensive Driving section, Arizona's Defensive Driving Program is extremely active in the lives of AZ drivers―to the tune of updating your knowledge of traffic laws, reducing points on your driving record, and meeting court-ordered requirements. And that's just to name a few.

Here, let's dive deeper into the two types of Arizona traffic schools: Defensive Driving Diversion and Traffic Survival School.

Defensive Driving Diversion

This school deals primarily with civil traffic moving violations, such as speeding infractions and failing to yield. Your ticket will indicate if your infraction is considered to be a civil or criminal offense. If you were cited for multiple civil violations, you may only have one infraction dismissed by completing the program.

Commercial drivers may not voluntarily enroll in the course, even if the infraction was received while driving a non-commercial vehicle.

The program is overseen by Arizona Supreme Court, not the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD), and is voluntary. You'll review Arizona traffic laws, defensive driving techniques, and accident-avoidance maneuvers in the class.

Normally, you'll receive information about this program along with your ticket. You'll be given the phone number for the schools you're permitted to attend. If you would prefer going to another school, you may ask the court for permission to enroll in the school of your choice.

Some offer state-approved online classes. Others may offer classes for the hearing-impaired, or for those who only speak Spanish. Classes are not available on DVD, or any other sort of media. Please contact the school directly for more information about their offerings and hours.

The program cost varies depending on where you live. Court costs are included in the overall fee. By completing the program, however, you won't have to pay the cost of the ticket.

After successfully completing the class, your violation will be dismissed from your driving record, and you won't receive any points on your license.

Your insurance rates may not go up, either, as the infraction will not show on your driving record. Also, your insurance carrier may offer a discount on your auto premiums if you complete the class. Contact your insurance provider for specific information regarding its policy and your situation.

For more information on the defensive driving program, see our Arizona Defensive Driving page.

Traffic Survival School

Traffic Survival School (TSS) is for convicted violators of serious traffic offenses, such as running a red light, aggressive driving, or any offense that leads to a serious injury or death. It's also for those who have accumulated between 8-12 points on their license, and all drivers under 18 receiving their first moving violation citation.

The program consists of a single, eight-hour long class. Its purpose is to educate drivers about Arizona traffic laws, while reinforcing driver responsibilities, and stressing the importance of safe driving practices. You don't have the choice as to whether to take this class, and completing it will not remove points off your driving record.

Unlike the defensive driving program, which is under the governance of the Arizona Supreme Court, the TSS falls under the authority of the MVD. Failing to take the class within 60 days from the notice date on your corrective action letter means your license will be suspended until you do complete the class and pay your fines.

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