If you received a traffic ticket in Texas, you may be able to dismiss it by taking a defensive driving course. But not everyone automatically qualifies.
This guide explains exactly who is eligible for defensive driving in Texas, who is not, and what to do next.
If you’re ready to find a state-approved course, you can search approved providers here: TDLR Approved Course Search.
Basic Eligibility Requirements for Defensive Driving in Texas
In most cases, you are eligible for defensive driving (also called a Driving Safety Course) if:
- You have a valid Texas driver’s license
- You carry valid auto insurance
- You were not speeding 25 MPH or more over the limit
- You do not hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
- You have not taken defensive driving for ticket dismissal within the past 12 months
Courts ultimately approve or deny eligibility, so you must request permission before enrolling in a course.
Who Is NOT Eligible for Defensive Driving in Texas?
You may not qualify if:
- You were driving 25+ MPH over the posted speed limit
- You were charged with passing a stopped school bus
- You were cited for reckless driving
- You were driving without insurance
- You hold a CDL at the time of the offense
- You already used defensive driving for dismissal within the last 12 months
If you’re unsure about repeat eligibility, read: Can You Take Defensive Driving More Than Once in Texas?
How Often Can You Take Defensive Driving for Ticket Dismissal?
Texas law generally allows you to take a defensive driving course once every 12 months for ticket dismissal.
If it has been more than one year since your last dismissal, you may qualify again.
Does Defensive Driving Remove Points in Texas?
Texas no longer operates under the old Driver Responsibility Program point system. However, completing defensive driving can prevent a violation from appearing on your public driving record when used for dismissal.
Learn more here: Does Defensive Driving Remove Points in Texas?
What About Your Driving Record?
Most courts require you to submit a certified Type 3A driving record along with your course certificate.
You can learn about that here: What Is a Type 3A Driving Record in Texas?
To request your official driving record online, use the approved search portal: Texas Driving Record Search.
How Long Do You Have to Request Defensive Driving?
You must request defensive driving from the court before your appearance date listed on your citation. If you miss the deadline, the court may deny your request.
If you’ve already missed it, read this guide: Missed the Defensive Driving Deadline in Texas?
How to Complete the Process
- Contact the court listed on your ticket.
- Request permission to take a Driving Safety Course.
- Pay any required court administrative fees.
- Complete a TDLR-approved defensive driving course.
- Obtain your Type 3A driving record (if required).
- Submit your certificate and driving record to the court by the deadline.
For help submitting your certificate correctly, see: How to Submit a Defensive Driving Certificate to the Court in Texas.
Find a TDLR-Approved Defensive Driving Course
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can search for approved defensive driving courses here:
Search TDLR-Approved Defensive Driving Courses
All courses listed in the portal are approved by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).
Final Answer: Are You Eligible?
If you have a valid license, insurance, were not driving 25+ MPH over the limit, and have not used defensive driving in the past year, you likely qualify.
The safest next step is to contact your court immediately and confirm eligibility before enrolling.
Once approved, use the official search tool to find a course and complete the process as soon as possible to protect your record.