Defensive Driving Improvement Programs

New Hampshire has driver improvement courses, also known as defensive driving. You may want to attend a driving school because you got a traffic ticket and want to reduce the points on your record; because you got a DWI and were ordered to; or because you're interested in improving your driving and want to reduce your insurance rates.

When you begin researching driving schools to attend, ask plenty of questions based on your reasons for taking the course.

Points Reduction

First, is the school on the state-approved list? This is important if you are hoping to reduce points on your driving record; only state-approved schools can do this.

Classes range from six to eight hours long, and costs start at $50. You may not take Driver Improvement online in New Hampshire.

DWI

If you lose your license due to a DWI conviction, you'll be required to take one of several alcohol awareness training programs.

Depending on the violation, and your previous driving record, you may be ordered to attend and successfully complete:

• An Impaired Driver Intervention Program (IDIP)

• A Weekend Impaired Driver Intervention Program (WIDIP)

• A Phase II program for impaired drivers

• The Multiple Offender Program (MOP)

Fees for these classes are costly. The 20-hour IDIP course, taught weekdays, is $310. The 20-hour WIDIP, taught on weekends, is $430, but this fee includes room and board.

MOP is a seven-day in-house educational program, Friday morning to Friday morning. Even though the course is named the Multiple Offender Program, you could be ordered to attend if the severity of your conviction warrants it, even with a first offense. The cost of this course is $1,550 and can be paid in full with check, cash, money order, certified funds, or credit card. Fortunately, payment arrangements can be made, too.

For more information, be sure to explore The Unofficial DMV Guide's special section about DUI & DWI offenses.

Lowering Insurance Premiums

Contact your insurance company to ask questions. Many companies offer discounts on auto insurance premiums but ask how much, and if you are eligible.

You may not qualify for a discount based on your age or your driving record.

The AARP offers monthly refresher courses in many cities for drivers older than 50 for only $10. Check with your insurance company to determine if this course qualifies you for the discount.

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