Traffic Schools

State-Approved Courses

Traffic schools are available in Rhode Island, although you won't find a comprehensive list on a state Web site. Check your local listings for a school near you ,if you wish to take a class voluntarily.

If you are convicted of two or more traffic offenses, you may be ordered by a judge to attend a particular course as part of your sentencing.

Ticket Dismissal and Point Reduction

Your traffic tickets won't be dismissed in Rhode Island if you attend traffic school. But the State does have a "Good Driving" statute, that allows you to keep a traffic ticket off your permanent record if you've had no other violations within a three-year period. Be sure to ask your local court about that provision to see if you qualify.

Rhode Island does not tally points on your driving record like other states, but they do occasionally attach labels. Contact your district court to ask if attending a traffic school will help improve your driving record.

Insurance Premiums

Many insurance companies offer discounts on auto insurance premiums when policyholders attend traffic school. Call your own insurance agent to learn company policies.

Remember to ask if you qualify for a discount; some insurance companies only give discounts for certain ages, and they may or may not offer a discount based on your driving record. Then compare the amount of the discount to the cost of the course; sometimes the discount will not offset the cost.

Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is stupid and costly. If you are convicted of DUI in Rhode Island, you'll face steep fines, license suspension, and a treatment program, traffic school, or both.

Teen Drivers

Driver's education is required for new drivers in Rhode Island. Check out DMV.ORG's section especially for Rhode Island Teen Drivers.

Senior Drivers

The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) provides regular refresher courses in many cities and towns for drivers older than age 50. The cost of this course is around $10. Check their Web site for a schedule and location near you.