State-Approved Courses

Defensive driving courses are offered through New Mexico's Traffic Safety Bureau.

You may take a defensive driving course because you got a ticket and the judge told you to; because you want to get an insurance discount; or simply because you wish to become a better driver.

Ticket Dismissal and Point Reduction

If you get a traffic ticket, don't just pay the fine. Go to court and ask to be sent to defensive driving school. The judge will give you a list of approved local schools. Bring back a certificate of completion, and you may just be walking away with your record wiped clean.

Attending the course may also qualify you for a reduction of points on your driving record, depending on the violation and your prior record. Call (888) 683-4636 to see if you are eligible for a reduction.

Insurance Premiums

Call your insurance carrier to ask if they'll give you a discount for attending driver safety school.

Also compare the amount of the discount to the cost of the course; some discounts will not offset the costs you'll incur.

Senior Drivers

New Mexico approves the following three courses available for drivers 50 years old and older:

• AARP's Driver Safety Program and Online Course

• AAA's Online Driver Improvement Program

• I Drive Safely

Driving While Intoxicated

If you're convicted of driving while intoxicated (DWI), you'll face hefty fines, suspended driving privileges, costly reinstatement fees, and a variety of treatment and training programs―including traffic school.

New Mexico offers a separate course specifically for DWI offenders, so ask about these when you call one of the schools.

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