Missouri Driver Improvement: Avoid Points with Defensive Driving

Last Updated: May 26, 2021 |
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With the Missouri driver improvement program or DIP, you can avoid having points added to your drivers license, reduce your insurance rates, and you can do it all online!

Before signing up for the DIP, make sure you’re eligible and have permission from the courts. We’ll cover eligibility requirements and how to obtain permission, along with everything else you need to know about the Missouri Driver Improvement course.

#1 Online Driver Improvement in Missouri – IDriveSafely – State Approved Defensive Driving

Benefits of the Missouri Driver Improvement Program

1. Avoid Adding Points to Your License

Of course, the main benefit of taking the Missouri DIP course is keeping points off your license. If too many points accumulate, you could have your license suspended or revoked. By completing the Missouri driver improvement program, you won’t have to worry. The points from your traffic violation will not go on your license.

Every year you drive without accruing points on your record, the points will be reduced. The first year, your total remaining points will be reduced by one-third, the second year, your points will be reduced by half, and after three years your points can be reduced to zero! However, even with points reduced to zero, specific types of convictions must remain listed permanently on your Missouri driving record.

2. Enjoy Insurance Discounts

Taking this course stops points from affecting your driving record, which means your insurance provider isn’t notified about the violation, keeping your rates from being raised. Ask your insurance provider about potential savings they offer for taking a DIP course. Most insurance companies offer up to a 10% discount after completing the Missouri driver improvement program.

3. Become a Safer Driver

Improve your behind-the-wheel skills by driving defensively, it could save your life and the lives of others! With the DIP course, you can learn to drive with a new perspective and outlook, one that can make driving a safer experience and save you money. The State of Missouri allows you to retake the course every three years, which is recommended to stay up-to-date with new traffic laws.

Choosing an Online Driver Improvement Program in Missouri

There are several online options for the Missouri DIP course. Choosing the right one is important. Make sure you choose a state-approved option offering 24/7 access to the course materials. You should also look for an online program letting you work from a mobile device or a computer.

With the online version of the DIP course, you can take the course when it fits your schedule, from anywhere with an internet connection with a mobile device or computer. You can log on and off at your convenience, saving your progress each time.

Eligibility for the Missouri Driver Improvement Program

Courts approve drivers for the Missouri DIP on a case-by-case basis. They will consider the moving violation you received, along with your driving history.

If you want to use this program to keep points off your license, you’ll need to follow these steps:

You won’t be able to use the Missouri driver improvement program if you don’t have permission from the courts. After getting permission, you’ll need to complete the online course within 60 days.

As long as you haven’t used the program in the past 36 months, you will likely be eligible to use it. In some counties, the FCC will grant automatic approval to use the driver improvement course in Missouri. Other counties require you to go to courts to request permission. Always check with your county to find out if you’re eligible.

#1 Online Driver Improvement in Missouri – IDriveSafely – State Approved Defensive Driving


How Many Points will my Traffic Ticket Cost my Driver’s License?

Most minor infractions such as aggressive driving, following too close (Tailgating), texting while driving, will be assessed two points whether it falls under state, county, or city. However, the more serious violations will accumulate more points and will vary depending on the severity and jurisdiction.

State Trooper County Sheriff City Police Officer
Speeding 3 2 2
Excessive Speeding 3 2 2
Stop Sign 2 2 1- No Accident

2- With Accident

Permit only, unlicensed driver 4 4 4
No insurance 4 4 4
Driving with

suspended/revoked license

12 12 12

Can I get my traffic ticket in Missouri dismissed?

In the state of Missouri, you won’t be able to get your ticket dismissed with the Missouri driver improvement program. However, upon receiving a traffic violation in Missouri, you can use the online course to keep the points off your license.

How often can I take the Missouri DIP course?

You can take the Missouri driver improvement program once every 36 months.

How much is the online Missouri driver improvement program?

The cost of the Missouri DIP course online will range depending on the provider you choose. The average price is around $30. Make sure the cost you pay will include everything you need.

When can tickets be removed from my record?

The State of Missouri allows tickets to be removed from driving records after a three year period. However, if your license was suspended or revoked because of having too many points, the waiting period is five years. This doesn’t apply to all convictions and timeframes can vary depending on the type of license you have.

How long does an online Missouri driver improvement course take?

The Missouri Safety Center requires the driver improvement course to be at least eight hours long. However, you can log on and off, saving your progress each time.

Will there be a final exam to pass?

Yes, you will need to complete the Missouri DIP course and pass a final exam. You have to score at least an 80% on the exam to pass. However, you have unlimited attempts to pass the exam without any additional charges.

Can I use the Missouri DIP course for a motorcycle violation?

No. It’s not possible to use the Missouri DIP for a motorcycle violation. Instead, you will need to attend an approved motorcycle rider training course.

When you get a traffic ticket in Missouri, the DIP course offers a great way to keep points off your license. You can use this program once every 36 months to keep your insurance rates from going up. It can also help you avoid having your license suspended.

If you’re eligible to use the Missouri driver improvement program, consider the online version. It will allow you to work at your pace, from wherever you want.

#1 Online Driver Improvement in Missouri – IDriveSafely – State Approved Defensive Driving