Short Answer
The Florida Basic Driver Improvement (BDI) course does not erase or remove existing points from your driving record. Instead, it prevents points from being assessed for the traffic citation you are addressing.
How Point Reduction Works in Florida
When you receive a citation, you may elect to take the 4-Hour BDI course.
Upon successful completion, we submit your record to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) within 1 business day.
The FLHSMV then withholds the points from being added to your license for that citation.
Key Point: The course keeps new points from appearing, but it does not delete points that are already on your record.
Benefits of Preventing Points
Protects Your License: Too many points can result in suspension (12 points in 12 months, 18 points in 18 months, or 24 points in 36 months).
Keeps Insurance Rates Lower: Insurance companies often raise rates when points are assessed. Completing the BDI course may help avoid that increase.
Maintains Safe Driver Status: Florida’s safe driver status can be preserved if points are withheld.
Important Limitations
Existing Points Remain: Points from prior citations cannot be removed retroactively by taking this course.
Number of Elections: You may elect the BDI course up to five times in your lifetime in Florida.
Not for CDL Holders: Commercial driver license (CDL) holders are not eligible to use BDI to prevent points.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will my record show that I took traffic school?
A: Yes. The record will show “adjudication withheld” with a notation that traffic school was completed. The violation is still recorded, but points are not assessed.
Q: Can I take the course for multiple tickets?
A: You may only use the BDI course to prevent points for one citation at a time. Each additional ticket may have its own eligibility rules.
Q: Does my insurance company see the violation?
A: The citation is still on your record, but because points are withheld, many insurers view it less negatively. Always check with your insurer.
Q: Can I take the BDI course after points are already added?
A: No. The course must be completed in response to an eligible citation before points are assessed.
At a Glance: Florida BDI and Points
Question | Answer |
Does it erase old points? | No |
Prevents new points? | Yes – for the current citation |
When is it reported? | Within 1 business day to FLHSMV |
Who is eligible? | Non-CDL drivers with eligible citations |
How many times allowed? | 5 in a lifetime |
Why This Matters
Ensures you maintain a clean driving record moving forward.
Reduces the risk of suspension and costly insurance hikes.
Clarifies a common misconception: the course prevents points but does not erase old violations.