Does Reckless Driving Qualify for Ticket Dismissal Through the Tennessee Driver Education Course (Traffic School)?
Generally, no. Reckless driving is a Class B misdemeanor in Tennessee — not a minor traffic infraction — and courts typically do not offer traffic school for misdemeanor charges. The Tennessee Driver Education Course is designed for minor, non-criminal moving violations under T.C.A. § 55-10-301.
If your citation lists reckless driving, contact your court before enrolling to confirm whether you are eligible.
What Makes Something Reckless Driving in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, driving 30 mph or more over the posted speed limit elevates a speeding infraction to reckless driving. Reckless driving can also be charged based on other behavior — such as racing, extreme weaving, or conduct that shows a willful disregard for safety — regardless of speed.
Why Reckless Driving Usually Does Not Qualify
T.C.A. § 55-10-301 authorizes courts to offer traffic school only for violations under specific chapters of Title 55. Misdemeanor charges like reckless driving carry potential penalties including fines, points on the driving record, and jail time. Courts handling these charges generally require a court appearance rather than offering a traffic school diversion.
What to Do If You Have a Reckless Driving Charge
Contact the court listed on your citation and ask specifically whether traffic school is available for your charge. In some cases a reckless driving charge is reduced to a standard speeding violation through negotiation — if that happens, you may then be eligible for traffic school. An attorney can advise you on your options.
Do not enroll in the course hoping it will satisfy a reckless driving charge without first confirming with your court. Completing the course without prior court permission will not result in ticket dismissal.
Quick Facts
Detail | Information |
Reckless driving in TN | Class B misdemeanor |
Speed threshold | 30 mph or more over posted limit |
Generally eligible for traffic school | No |
Can charge be reduced | Possibly — contact an attorney |
What to do first | Contact your court before enrolling |
Frequently Asked Questions
I was going 28 mph over. Is that reckless driving? At 28 mph over, your charge is likely standard speeding rather than reckless driving. Standard speeding tickets typically qualify for traffic school, but confirm with your court before enrolling.
My citation says "reckless driving" but I only went a little over the limit. Can I still get traffic school? The charge on your citation — not the actual speed — determines eligibility. Contact your court. If the charge can be reduced, that may open up the traffic school option.
Can I take the course voluntarily even if it won't dismiss a reckless driving charge? Yes. If your insurer accepts it, you may still take the course voluntarily for an insurance discount. Voluntary enrollment does not require court permission and does not depend on the type of violation.