Completing a defensive driving course in Delaware can reduce your auto insurance rates, keep points off your driving record, and protect your license against possible suspension. Just confirm that the course meets all the state, court, and DMV requirements before enrolling.
Driving violations in Delaware earn you varying points on your license, depending on the severity of the offense. If you accumulate 12 points, you will be forced to pass a driving course. Although sometimes required by law, taking driving courses voluntarily can also prove to be very beneficial—read on to find one and make sure you’re getting the most out of it.
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Taking a defensive driving course in Delaware could…
…dismiss a minor traffic ticket
Although some states will eliminate existing points from your license after completing a defensive driving course, Delaware only allows drivers to earn a three-point credit. This means that after you pass your course, you will be afforded the only violation that would result in three or fewer points: driving 1-9 mph above the posted speed limit.
You may not even earn points for this speeding violation in all circumstances. If any of the following apply, you will be able to save your three-point credit:
It is your first violation within a three-year period
The ticket is paid through the Voluntary Assessment Center or after pleading guilty
You hold a Class D license
…help you get your license back
14 or more points on your license will earn you a mandatory four-month license suspension. If you rack up 12, however, you will be required to complete an aggressive driver course, and failure to do so will then result in a suspended license.
Follow these steps to ensure you retain your license:
Check your eligibility with the DMV—only drivers with less than 14 points can have their suspension revoked.
Find a qualifying driving course.
Pay the $100 enrollment fee, pass the eight-hour course, and send your notification of completion to the DMV within 48 hours.
…earn you an insurance discount
Most car insurance
companies offer discounted rates to customers that complete a defensive driving course due to improved safety on the road. If you’re interested in lowering your insurance premiums, take the following action: Ask your insurance company if they offer a driving course discount.
Enroll in a course approved by your insurance provider.
Complete the course and send your certification to your insurance company.
Most providers offer a discount of between 10 and 15 percent, so we recommend contacting your provider first so you know how much you can save. With above-average minimum liability coverage
costs in Delaware, a driving course can be a great way to save—and you can even do it from the comfort of your own home! …improve your driving skills
Defensive driving courses cover the basic rules of the road and provide helpful tips to improve safety while behind the wheel. While many courses used to take place in person, the majority has shifted to an online presence. In these courses, you will view videos, graphics, and take quizzes to make sure you are retaining valuable information.
Driving courses of any kind will help you follow traffic laws and avoid collisions, ultimately saving you plenty of money for as long as you are on the road.
MORE: How to file a car accident claim report
How to find Delaware defensive driving courses
Delaware defensive driving programs are typically easy to find, you just need to narrow it down to the one that best fits your needs.
If you are taking a course to reduce points on your incense or earn an insurance discount, the course you enroll in must be approved by the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles or your insurance company. The state DMV keeps a list of approved driving courses
, which can be a great place to start. Easily navigate through the list by breaking down whether you want an online or in-person course, and then filtering by location. Contact information is also presented, making it a breeze to find the best class for you and sign up!
Online courses are propelled in popularity since many are designed to be completed at your own pace. If this sounds more your speed, Delaware Defensive Driving
and Drive Safe Today
are two of the most popular DMV-approved online driving schools, just make sure your insurance provider approves them for a discount. How much is a defensive driving course in Delaware?
While exact costs will vary from school to school, you can expect to pay between $15 and $35. If you are completing a course to reinstate a license, you will also be charged a $50 fee to reissue a suspended license, while the fee jumps to $200 for a revoked license.
How long is a defensive driving course in Delaware?
Typically between three and eight hours depending on the class. In-person courses generally take longer because you follow the instructor’s pace, but on the other hand, virtual classes can take just as long since you are left to your own discipline to complete the lessons.
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