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How to Choose a California Traffic School
Attending a California traffic school can be a valuable endeavor. Often times, you can have points shaved off your license by agreeing to traffic school. This short article will help you find a good traffic school in California.
Check Court Recommendations
Usually, if you have been court ordered to attend traffic school, the court system can point you in the right direction. While they generally will not promote or endorse any particular school, they may be able to help you steer clear of ones that aren’t reputable. If the courts recommend a school, or a few schools, check in to those before going any further.
Call Your Insurance Company
Sine the insurance company can ultimately raise your rates due to tickets; they should be able to offer you recommendations for traffic schools as well. If the traffic school you attend offers a defensive driving safety course, you may even be able to get a discount on your insurance rates. Don’t discount the information your insurance company has to offer.
Check with the DMV
The California Department of Motor Vehicles will have a list available of all the schools in your area that are approved by the DMV for traffic school. It’s vital that the school you choose is licensed to offer traffic school courses. If it’s not, you’re just wasting your time and money on a course that the courts won’t accept. You can find a complete list of licensed traffic schools online at: http://www.dmv.ca.gov/forms/ol/ol745.pdf
Location
You want to find a California traffic school that is close to you. The driving time can not only be a hassle, it can cost you money. If you have a busy family this is something you may want to keep in mind.
Cost
Traffic school will cost you some money. Generally you will need to pay a court fee, a small fee for the class and a fee for the certificate. California actually sets the amount a school can charge for their traffic course. This is set at $15 for the course, and $1.50 for the certificate. If the school is asking for more than this, you will want to find another school.
Language
The DMV has licensed several traffic schools that are available in different languages. If English is your second language, consider taking a class in your native language. This may make it easier to pass the course, and it doesn’t cost any more money. The classes are available in fifteen different languages, so check with the DMV to find a course in your language in your area.
Online Traffic School
While taking courses online can certainly be a convenience, it may not be recognized by the state. Online courses may be able to offer a discount on your insurance rates, but that may be all they can do. Before you choose any school, make sure it’s recognized and licensed by the State of California.
