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 Maryland, the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) offers the Driver Improvement Program (DIP) for certain drivers who have been directed by the MVA or a District Court to participate. This program is designed to promote safe driving habits. While Maryland does not have a statewide system for dismissing traffic tickets through defensive driving courses, participation in the DIP or other court-approved driver safety courses may be required as a result of a traffic citation or may be recommended by a judge. In some cases, completing such a course could potentially lead to a more favorable outcome in court or a reduction in insurance premiums, depending on the individual's circumstances and the policies of their insurance company. It's important to note that eligibility for benefits such as ticket dismissal or point reduction is determined on a case-by-case basis, and drivers should consult with an attorney or the court handling their traffic citation to understand their options.