Determine Your “Course” of Action

Georgia offers Defensive Driving or Driver Improvement courses (the state uses the terms interchangeably; they’re the same courses) for point reduction.

For point reduction, a driver can take one course every five years to have up to seven points removed from his driving record.

Drivers can choose from among several classroom courses; online driving courses aren’t options at this time.

NOTE: Drivers can use these same courses for possible auto insurance discounts and driver reinstatement requirements not related to DUI charges.

No Dismissed Traffic Tickets

Although it’s always up to the judge’s discretion, taking a Driver Improvement course is not a standard option for ticket dismissal in Georgia.

Risk Reduction Courses

The DUI, Alcohol, or Drug Use Risk Reduction Program courses are different from Defensive Driving and Driver Improvement courses.

Judges order Risk Reduction courses for drivers convicted of:

• Driving Under the Influence (DUI).
• Boating Under the Influence (BUI).
• Possession of illegal drugs.
• Possession of alcohol while driving (for underage drivers).

Learn more about DUI-related offenses and penalties.

Complete a GA Driving Safety Course

Your driving course will last six hours, and cost no more than $75. Once you complete the course, you’ll receive a Certificate of Completion to provide the DDS (see below).

Keep in mind that course providers are independent; they are not DDS or state employees. As such:

• Refunds are up to the course provider.
• If you’re late, the course instructor can prevent you from entering the classroom.

Still, if you have any complaints about your provider or instructor, you can use an official DDS Complaint Form.

Submit Requirements to the Court

You’ll receive a Certificate of Completion once you complete your Defensive Driving course. To request a point reduction, you must present the original copy of this certificate in person to your your local Customer Service Center or by mail to the DDS at:

• Georgia Department of Driver Services

• PO Box 80447

• Conyers, GA 30013

Lost or Damaged Certificates

If your completion certificate becomes lost or damaged, you can request a new one from the course provider. Course providers must keep records of course completion for three years after the completion. Expect to pay up to $5 for a new certificate.

NOTE: If it’s been more than three years since you completed the course, you can’t get a new copy; you must retake the course.

Check Your Georgia Driving Record

Give the DDS a few days (or weeks, depending on how you delivered the certificate) to remove the applicable points from your driving record; then, check your driving record to make sure points were removed and find out where you stand in terms of points-related license suspension.

Get an Auto Insurance Discount

Some auto insurance providers offer discounts for completing a Defensive Driving or Driver Improvement course. Please talk with your agent about this possibility before you complete the course, or at least before you submit your completion certificate to the DDS. Your provider will want to see the certificate.