You may be required to take the Virginia Driver Improvement Course, or you can choose to take it voluntarily. There are four situations where the course applies.
Required by the DMV
The Virginia DMV will send you a written notice requiring you to complete the course if you accumulate:
12 or more demerit points within any 12-month period, or
18 or more demerit points within any 24-month period
You must complete the full 8-hour course within 90 days of the order date. If you do not, the DMV will suspend your driving privilege until you complete it.
Required by a Court
A Virginia court or judge may order you to complete a driver improvement clinic as part of the outcome of a traffic case. The court sets its own deadline. When you register, select Court as your reason for attendance.
Important: Not all Virginia courts accept online driver improvement clinics. It is your responsibility to confirm with your court that it accepts a computer-based course before you enroll.
Voluntary — Safe Driving Points
Any Virginia driver with a valid, non-commercial license can take the course voluntarily to earn 5 safe driving points. You can do this once every 24 months. You do not need a court order or DMV notice.
Voluntary — Insurance Discount
You can also take the course to qualify for an auto insurance premium discount. Check with your insurance company before enrolling to confirm you are eligible. If you take the course for an insurance discount, you will not receive safe driving points.
Who Is Not Eligible
CDL holders required to complete a course due to a CDL-related offense must complete a commercial driver improvement clinic. The general Driver Improvement Course does not satisfy that requirement.
You must have a valid Virginia driver's license or Virginia DMV Customer Number to register.
Quick Facts
Situation | Required or Optional |
DMV notice for excess demerit points | Required — 90-day deadline from order date |
Court order | Required — court sets deadline |
Earn 5 safe driving points | Optional — once every 24 months |
Auto insurance discount | Optional — confirm eligibility with insurer first |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if the DMV requires me to take the course? You will receive a written notice in the mail from the Virginia DMV. If you are unsure, check your driving record at dmvNow.com or call the DMV.
How do I know if a court requires me to take the course? You will receive an order from the court at your court date or by mail. Check your court paperwork for the specific requirement and deadline.
Can I take the course even if no one ordered me to? Yes. Voluntary enrollment is open to any eligible Virginia driver. You earn 5 safe driving points upon successful completion.
What if I hold a CDL? If you are required to attend a clinic for a violation committed in a commercial motor vehicle, you must complete a commercial driver improvement clinic. Contact the Virginia DMV for more information.