Unlike some states, Minnesota does not have a state-wide system to remove points tied to a specific defensive driving course. Defensive driving in this is an elective, educational pursuit, and there are two outcomes. The first one is a reduction in insurance premiums, and secondly, you can be a proactive driver. The DVS does not approve online traffic schools for ticket dismissal in the way other states do. Below are some aspects worth knowing.
Senior Citizen Discount
Minnesota law provides a specific statutory incentive for drivers aged 55 and older. Drivers who are 55+ and have completed a state-approved defensive driving course MN, followed by a refresher every three years, can legally get a 10% auto insurance discount. All insurance companies in Minnesota must give this discount to senior citizens who submit their certificate. You can check ETS Traffic School, which allows you to complete the course for defensive driving at your own pace on any device and has more than 16 language options.
Ticket Dismissal in Minnesota
In Minnesota, for drivers who get a moving violation, the traffic school process is discretionary. You can contact the clerk of the court or the presiding judge before enrolling, and it is up to the judge whether they want to grant a stay of adjudication or dismissal in exchange for completing an educational program. As DVS does not regulate these programs, make sure you choose a course provider accurately, as the certificate has to be accepted by the specific court before payment.
Many Benefits at a Glance
Even for drivers under 55, many insurance companies offer discounts for completing a defensive driving course. You need to contact your insurance provider to check whether they accept defensive driving certificates for reducing premiums. Usually, these discounts vary between 10% and 20%. Ensure that you submit the certificate manually.
Driving Techniques in the Course
Minnesota’s winters can mean dealing with harsh conditions on the road. Defensive driving courses focus on these aspects in the curriculum:
· Following distance: The 3-second rule is the norm, but in Minnesota’s winter climate, this must be expanded to 6 to 10 seconds, considering icy surfaces.
· Scanning: You will also learn to apply the 15-second eye-lead time to identify possible hazards on rural roads and urban intersections, ensuring there is adequate response time before the situation gets out of hand.
· Right-of-Way: A large number of Minnesota traffic incidents happen at intersections due to failure to yield. The training focuses on clearing the intersection and ensuring complete visibility before proceeding.
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Proactive Safety on the Road
While you may not get direct point benefits in this state, defensive driving is an investment for personal safety. Yes, you can save on insurance premiums, but you can also work on your driving habits on Minnesota’s roads. You should also consider the refresher course, which can help reinforce safety practices. The initial course has 8 hours, while the refresher has 4 hours. If you are looking for ticket mitigation, always check for court permissions. Even for an insurance discount, you have to confirm with the carrier.
