DEFENSIVE DRIVING

You may be able to take a driving safety course to have your citation dismissed.  You must request permission to take defensive driving from the Court.  Your request must be made in person or by mail by the due date on your citation.  You must not have completed a defensive driving course, for the purpose of dismissing a citation, within the previous 12 months preceding the date of your current citation.

Driving Safety Requirements:

     You must provide the Court the following before you take driving safety course:

  • You must enter a plea of "nolo contendere" ("no contest") or "guilty" to the charge.
  • Pay State fee & costs for defensive driving ($144.00 or $169.00 if offense occurred in school zone).
  • Present proof of financial responsibility (insurance with your name on it).
  • Present your valid Texas Driver's License.
  • Present valid driver’s license from any state if active military, spouse, or dependent.

Eligibility - The defendant is not eligible if the offense is:

  • Speeding 95 mph or more
  • Speeding 25 mph or more over posted limit
  • Fail to remain & give information/aid (Leaving the scene of an accident)
  • Passing school bus
  • An offense committed in a construction zone while workers are present

Defendants who hold a commercial driver's license are not eligible for defensive driving regardless of whether you were in a commercial vehicle or in your personal vehicle.

Upon approval, you will be granted 90 days to complete the driving safety course and to obtain a copy of your driving record from the Texas Department of Public Safety.  Your Certificate of Completion and a copy of your driving record must be turned in to the Court within the 90 days.  If you comply with Judge's order, your charge will be dismissed.

Failure to provide your completion certificate and/or your driving record to the Court within the 90 days will result in your case being set for a Show Cause hearing before the judge.  Failure to appear for the Show Cause hearing will result in final judgment and conviction on your driving record.  A Capias Pro Fine warrant will be issued for your arrest.

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