Determine Your “Course” of Action

You may have the option to have a traffic ticket dismissed by completing a defensive driving course. This is a one-time opportunity. All subsequent violations will appear on your driving record.

The main benefit of a dismissed ticket is that the violation will not appear on your driving record. This means no fines to pay, no increased car insurance rates and, depending on your driving history, no suspension of your MS driver's license.

Course Eligibility

To be eligible, you:

• Must not have been cited for any other traffic violations over the last three years.
• Must receive court approval. This requires providing the court with an affidavit, certifying that you have not been cited for a traffic violation in the three years prior.

Complete a MS Driving Safety Course

Check with the court for a list of approved defensive driving schools. Otherwise you will not be credited if you provide a completion certificate from a school not recognized by the court.

Submit Requirements to the Court

Check with your defensive driving school's policy regarding course completion certificates. Some may directly submit completion certificates to the court. Others will hand it to you. Don't delay if the onus is on you to deliver the completion certificate. For until the court receives verification, the ticket will not be dismissed.

Check Your Mississippi Driving Record

After the course completion certificate has been submitted to the court, check your driving record for accuracy, making sure the dismissed traffic violation has been removed. Report any errors.

Get an Auto Insurance Discount

Depending on the policies of your auto insurance company, any traffic violation appearing on your driving record may be grounds for increased premiums. If your car insurance rates exceed your budget, shop around for a new provider. Comparing rates online is a fast and convenient way for finding a plan that meets your coverage needs and conforms with your budget.