Yes. A court order is required before you can enroll in the Missouri Driver Improvement Program. The course is not available for voluntary enrollment — you must have a court order approving your participation before you sign up.

The Missouri Driver Improvement Program is a court-ordered diversion program authorized under Missouri Revised Statutes §302.302. It is available to drivers whose courts have approved their participation as an alternative to having points assessed on their driving record. Because the benefit flows through the court system, your court must initiate the process.

You appear in court for your traffic violation and the judge approves your participation in the Driver Improvement Program. See the article How Do I Get Court Approval for the Missouri Driver Improvement Program (DIP)? for more details.

The Missouri Driver Improvement Program is not available without a court order. If you are looking to improve your driving skills voluntarily or earn an insurance discount without a court requirement, contact us and we can let you know what options may be available.

Can I enroll and then get court approval afterward? No. You must have a court order before enrolling. Enrolling without a court order will not result in the point prevention benefit and may complicate your court proceeding.

What if my court has not told me about the Driver Improvement Program? Ask your attorney or the court clerk whether you are eligible for the Driver Improvement Program as part of your traffic case. Not all courts offer it for all violations.

Can I enroll if I have a court date scheduled but have not appeared yet? No. You need the actual court order approving your participation — not just a scheduled court date. Enroll after your court appearance once approval is granted.