Taking a defensive driving course has many benefits. You may want to take a course voluntarily to learn how to drive better, or you may be required to take one due to driving infractions.

Points Reduction

West Virginia offers a defensive driving course for drivers to reduce points on your driving record. If you are eligible to attend the course, and you pass it successfully, you can have up to three points reduced from your record. The reduction is not given toward future accumulation of points, and you can take a course only once every two years for points reduction.

Problem drivers who accumulate more than 11 points, or who have current violations that will put the point total over 11, are not eligible for the defensive driving course or a point reduction. To determine your eligibility, call (800) 642-9066.

You must register for the course in advance by calling one of the following providers:

• West Virginia Driver Training, (304) 424-6307

• Able Driving School, (540) 350-4716

• Bluefield AAA, (304) 327-8187

Driving Under the Influence

West Virginia enforces a zero tolerance policy for drivers convicted of driving under the influence (DUI). If you're convicted of driving drunk, you'll face hefty fines, suspended driving privileges, and steep reinstatement fees. You may also be required to attend various treatment or training programs. For more information on DUI, visit DMV.org's special section for DUI & DWI.

Insurance Premiums

Check with your own insurance company to determine if a defensive driving course will lower your insurance premiums. Many companies offer discounts for drivers of certain ages, or may not offer discounts based on your driving record. Be sure to compare the amount of the discount to the cost of the course; sometimes the discount may not offset the cost of some courses.

Traffic Tickets

When you are issued a traffic ticket, the local court will decide whether a defensive driving course will dismiss or reduce the ticket, or whether the ticket will remain on your record. The judge will base the decision on the violation and your previous driving history.

Senior Drivers

The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) offers regular refresher courses throughout the state for drivers 50 and older. Check their website for a schedule and location near you. The course costs around $10, and the discount on your auto insurance premiums will likely be greater than this fee, so while improving your driving skills, you'll also save some money.

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