Determine Your “Course” of Action

Louisiana approves a variety of driver improvement courses for ticket dismissal purposes. Many of these courses are available online, making them the most convenient options for drivers already juggling other responsibilities like school, work, and family.

No Point Reduction

Louisiana doesn’t use a point system, so driver improvement courses aren’t good for point reduction; however, because they satisfy tickets, they do keep potential violations off your driving record.

NOTE: The OMV keeps a five-year public driving record of your violations; 10 years if it’s a DWI violation.

Complete a LA Driver Improvement Course

Naturally, each driver improvement course adheres to its own method of doing things; however, after you choose your course you can expect to:

• Pay a course fee separate from any court-imposed driver improvement fees.
• Learn about defensive driving techniques, such as those outlined in Section Two of the Louisiana Driver’s Guide.
• Take a final exam showing you’ve retained the lessons.
• Receive a Certificate of Completion (or information about having the certificate sent to your court).

NOTE: Online courses allow students to work at their own paces; some even offer unlimited final exam retakes―without paying additional fees.

Submit Requirements to the Court

Most likely, the only requirement you must submit is your completion certificate, and this process will vary depending on which driver improvement course provider you chose.

For example, some providers mail or electronically notify the courts directly; others mail you a completion certificate and leave it up to you to show the court.

Before you enroll in a course, find out the completion certificate delivery policy and make sure it fits your court-imposed deadline.

Check Your Louisiana Driving Record

After everything’s said and done―you’ve completed the course, presented your certificate to the court, and said goodbye to your traffic ticket―check your driving record to make sure the violation doesn’t appear.

Talk with the OMV or your court if you find any problems on your record.

Get an Auto Insurance Discount

Some auto insurance providers offer a discount to policyholders who complete approved driver improvement courses. Before you enroll, make sure your provider makes this option available.