Driving safety courses—also known as defensive driving or traffic school—are designed to improve a driver’s knowledge, awareness, and attitude toward driving a motor vehicle. Laws vary from state to state but in many states a driver who has been issued a traffic ticket or citation may have the ticket or citation dismissed upon successful completion of a driving safety course—whether online or in person.
In Illinois, driving safety courses, commonly referred to as defensive driving or traffic school, are recognized as a means to improve driving skills and safety awareness. Illinois law allows drivers who have received a traffic citation to potentially have the citation dismissed or avoid a conviction on their driving record by successfully completing a driving safety course. The eligibility to participate in such a course instead of receiving a conviction depends on the nature of the traffic violation and the driver's prior driving history. Some counties in Illinois have their own specific rules regarding the use of defensive driving courses for ticket dismissal. It's important for drivers to check with the county where the ticket was issued to understand the specific requirements and options available. Additionally, completion of a driving safety course may also qualify drivers for a reduction in their auto insurance premiums, as many insurers offer discounts for drivers who have completed such courses.