Determine Your “Course” of Action

Pennsylvania drivers can’t take a defensive driving course or traffic school to reduce driving record points; the state doesn’t offer the option.

There are only two ways to reduce points on a driving record in this state:

• Pass a PennDOT-ordered written or on-road exam, which removes two points. This isn’t voluntary; PennDOT orders these exams when you reach six or more points on your driving record.
• Maintain a violation-free driving record for 12 months, which removes three points.

No Dismissed Traffic Tickets and Other Considerations

Pennsylvania doesn’t dismiss traffic tickets, reduce points, or provide any other driving record-related perks for taking a defensive driving course.

Court-Ordered Traffic Courses

Sometimes, the court will order a driver to enroll in a specific driving school. This is always on a case-by-case basis and depends on the violation, the driver’s history, and the judge.

Complete a PA Driving Safety Course

You can’t remove points with a driving course, but you can:

• Sharpen your driving skills.
• Stay up-to-date on traffic laws.
• Develop defensive driving skills

Each of these benefits can help you avoid committing future traffic violations and even help prevent accidents.

Submit Requirements to the Court

Neither the court nor PennDOT require any information about the completion of your course, unless you attend a course because the court required it. During such a situation, the court will inform you of the requirements you must submit and how long you have to submit them.

Check Your Pennsylvania Driving Record

Whether you get a traffic ticket or just want to reduce the points on your driving record, it's always a good idea to periodically check what the state has on record in association with your Pennsylvania driver's license. Therefore, after getting a citation, once you complete your PennDOT requirements, or after wrapping up the 12-month violation-free period, check your driving record to make sure you have the correct number of points on file.

Get an Auto Insurance Discount

You can’t reduce points with a driving course, but you might be able to get an auto insurance discount. Talk with your insurance agent or provider for the specifics; chances are, you’ll need to show a completion certificate as proof.

Mature Driver Discount

Pennsylvania law states that drivers 55 years old and older can receive a 5% discount on their auto insurance rates by completing a state-approved Basic Mature Driver Improvement Course.