How to Complete Your Dallas County Defensive Driving Requirement Online
Getting a traffic ticket in Dallas County doesn't have to be a hassle. If you've received a citation, taking a Texas-approved online defensive driving course (also known as a drivers safety course) can help you dismiss the ticket and keep your driving record clean — all from the comfort of your home.
Whether you're looking to satisfy court requirements, reduce points on your license or qualify for an insurance discount, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about completing your defensive driving requirement online.
Dismissing Your Ticket with Defensive Driving
If you received a ticket within Dallas County — in a city such as Dallas, Irving, Garland or Mesquite — you may be able to dismiss it by completing a Texas-approved defensive driving course.
Follow these steps to ensure you meet all requirements:
1. Confirm Your Eligibility
Not all traffic violations qualify for dismissal through defensive driving. You may be eligible if:
- You were not speeding more than 25 mph over the posted limit.
- You do not have a commercial driver's license (CDL).
- Your ticket was for a moving violation, not a serious offense like reckless driving.
- You have not taken defensive driving for ticket dismissal in the past 12 months.
The court handling your ticket will confirm if you qualify.
2. Request Permission from the Court
Before enrolling in a defensive driving program, you must notify the Dallas County court and request permission. To do this, you'll typically need to submit:
- A plea of Guilty or No Contest (check your citation for instructions).
- A copy of your Texas driver's license.
- Proof of auto insurance.
- A money order or cashier's check for the required court fee. The traffic offenses fee is $144, and $169 for offenses that are committed in school zone.
3. Complete a Defensive Driving Course
Once you receive court approval, you must enroll in a Texas-approved defensive driving course. Online courses offer flexibility, allowing you to complete them at your own pace within 90 days.
Although there is no official defensive driving certification, you will earn a certificate of completion after you finish the program.
4. Obtain a Certified Copy of Your Driving Record
In addition to your course completion certificate, Dallas County courts need your type 3A Certified Driving Record. This is the only acceptable record for ticket dismissal.
5. Submit Your Documents to the Court
Before your deadline, submit the following to the county court:
- Your defensive driving course completion certificate.
- A certified copy of your Texas driving record.
Once the court processes your documents and approves your completion, your ticket will be dismissed, keeping points off your driving record.
Benefits of Taking Defensive Driving Online
Choosing an online program offers several advantages over in-person classes:
- Convenience: Complete the course at your own pace with any internet-connected device.
- Flexibility: Finish in one session or spread it out over multiple days within the 90-day deadline.
- Lower costs: Online courses are often more affordable than in-person classes.
Taking defensive driving online makes it easier to meet court requirements while saving time and money.
Complete Defensive Driving on Your Schedule
With TexasDrivingSchool.com's Online Texas Defensive Driving course, you have the flexibility to learn at your own pace within 90 days. Whether you prefer to finish it in one sitting or break it up into shorter sessions, you're in control of your learning — anytime, anywhere.