Who Should Take the New Jersey Defensive Driving Course (DDC)
You should consider taking the New Jersey Defensive Driving Course if you want to reduce points on your driving record, pursue an insurance discount, meet a court recommendation, or simply improve your defensive driving knowledge.
You Want to Reduce Points on Your Driving Record
If you have accumulated points on your New Jersey driving record, completing the course can reduce up to 2 points if you are eligible. To qualify you must hold a valid New Jersey driver's license and must not have received point reduction from a defensive driving course within the past 5 years.
You Want a Lower Insurance Premium
Many insurance providers offer a discount to drivers who complete a state-approved defensive driving course. Contact your insurer before enrolling to confirm you qualify and to find out how much you can save.
A Court Recommended or Directed You to Take the Course
Some courts recommend or require participation in a defensive driving program as part of a traffic case. If a court has directed you to take the course, confirm that an approved online course satisfies the requirement before enrolling, and note any completion deadline.
You Want to Refresh Your Driving Knowledge
You can take the course at any time for educational purposes, even if you have a clean driving record or are not currently eligible for point reduction.
Quick Facts
Detail | Information |
Point reduction benefit | Up to 2 points — once every 5 years if eligible |
Insurance discount | May apply — contact your insurer to confirm |
Court participation | Confirm court accepts online format before enrolling |
No violations required to enroll | Correct — voluntary enrollment is open to all eligible drivers |
Course format | Online, self-paced |
Cost | $29.95 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have violations to take the course? No. You can take the course voluntarily at any time, even if you have a clean record.
Should I take the course to reduce my insurance premium? Contact your insurer first to confirm you qualify for a discount. If you do, the $29.95 course cost may be worth the savings.
Will the course help me if I received a ticket? The course can reduce points on your record after a conviction, but it does not dismiss the ticket or replace paying your fine.
Can I take the course if I already received point reduction recently? You can enroll, but additional point reduction will not apply until 5 years have passed since your last approved course completion.
What if I just want to become a better driver? You are welcome to take the course for educational purposes regardless of your current driving record.