You’ve finished your Texas defensive driving course — now it’s time to send your certificate to the court so your ticket can be dismissed. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to make sure your submission is accepted and processed on time.
Before You Submit
Before sending anything, double-check these three things:
- You’ve completed a TDLR-approved defensive driving course.
- Your court granted permission for ticket dismissal through defensive driving.
- You know your exact submission deadline (usually listed on your court paperwork).
Submitting late or without permission may cause your case to revert to a conviction.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Most Texas courts require you to submit two main documents:
- Certificate of Completion from your defensive driving course.
- Type 3A driving record — available through the Texas driving record portal.
Some courts may also request proof of insurance or a copy of your driver’s license. Always read the instructions from your specific court.
Step 2: Choose Your Submission Method
Courts typically accept certificate submissions in one of the following ways:
- Upload: Many Texas courts have an online upload portal or email address for PDF copies.
- Mail: You can mail physical copies to the court address listed on your citation.
- In person: Drop off your certificate at the courthouse clerk’s window if required.
When mailing, use certified mail with tracking to confirm delivery. Keep copies of everything you send.
Step 3: Label Your Documents Correctly
Include your full name, citation number, and court case number on every document. Courts receive hundreds of certificates weekly — clear labeling helps ensure yours is processed quickly.
Step 4: Verify Court Receipt
Within a few days of submission, contact the court clerk to confirm they received and logged your documents. If you submitted online, watch for an email confirmation or status update on your case portal.
Step 5: Confirm Dismissal
Once your certificate is accepted, the court will mark your case as dismissed. This means:
- The ticket will not appear as a conviction on your driving record.
- No points will be added to your license.
- You can maintain your current insurance rate.
If you want to double-check, order a copy of your Texas driving record a few weeks later to ensure it shows no new violations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Sending the wrong certificate type — make sure it’s the official court copy, not your student copy.
- Forgetting to include your citation number or contact information.
- Missing the deadline — courts rarely grant extensions.
- Submitting without prior court approval.
Bonus: Submit for an Insurance Discount Too
After your court submission, you can also send your completion certificate to your insurance provider for a potential discount. Visit our Continuing Education page to find approved courses and discounts for safe drivers.
Need a Replacement Certificate?
If your certificate was lost or delayed, contact your course provider right away. Most TDLR-approved schools can reissue a digital or paper copy within 24 hours.