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How can I clean my driving record in California?

I’ve read that I can take some steps to get a clean driving record in California, but I’m not exactly sure where to begin. What can I do to clean my driving record in the Golden State?

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Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
You have several options to clean your driving record in California, but all require you to put your best foot forward. For starters, avoid accidents, tickets, and other infractions. This will keep you from adding additional points to your license.
In addition, California has a program for first-time offenders that may allow you to clean points off your driving record. To use this program to your advantage, follow these steps:
  • Obtain permission from traffic court. In most cases, the traffic court will send you a notice saying that you’re eligible to clean your driving record.
  • Sign up for a California DMV-approved defensive driving course. This course can be taken either in-person or online. Note that you can only take this course if you haven’t taken the same class in the last 18 months.
  • Complete the course and pass the final exam.
  • Send a certificate of completion of the course to your local DMV.
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