Can Going to Traffic School in California Remove Your Record of Ticket or Is It Only for Removing Points?

When dealing with traffic violations, one common question that arises is whether attending traffic school in California can remove your ticket record or simply help in removing points. This article aims to clarify this concept with detailed information and legal insights.

California Traffic School Law: Removing Points vs. Record

It is a common misconception that attending traffic school in California can remove a ticket. In reality, the purpose of traffic school is to avoid adding points to your driving record and to keep the violation from becoming public knowledge. California Vehicle Code 1808.7 provides the legal basis for traffic school attendance.

According to the Vehicle Code, attending traffic school does not affect the points you have accumulated in the past. However, it does allow you to remove points from a recent offense, provided you meet specific eligibility criteria. Importantly, attending traffic school can lead to a confidential conviction that does not appear on your driving license record, sparing you from additional penalties such as a point increase.

Eligibility for Traffic School in California

Eligibility for traffic school in California is limited to certain violations, primarily those that carry only one point, or offenses for which no other points would be added if you were convicted. For example, if you receive a ticket for speeding by 25 mph or more, or for reckless driving, you are not eligible for traffic school. Conversely, you are eligible if you receive a minor offense ticket and do not have any other violations within the past 18 months.

Benefits of Attending Traffic School in California

Attending traffic school in California can be financially beneficial in the long run. While the cost of traffic school is similar to the cost of fulfilling the court requirements for the ticket, the absence of a conviction on your driving record can save you from insurance rate increases. This can lead to considerable savings over time, especially if the increased premiums are substantial.

Moreover, attending traffic school can offer you a certificate that shows you have completed the course, which can be beneficial for future employment or other situations where driving records are checked.

Insurance Companies and Traffic School

It is important to note that while traffic school can help in removing points and maintaining the confidentiality of your record, it does not mean that insurance companies will be unaware of your offense. They can still see the violation when it initially occurred, and the fact that you attended traffic school can potentially be noted as a correction or improvement in your driving record.

Conclusion

Attending traffic school in California is an effective way to avoid adding points to your driving record and to keep your violation confidential. However, the primary effect is to remove points from a recent offense, which can save you from additional penalties and potentially costly insurance rate increases. It is always advisable to check the specific eligibility criteria and the laws in your state to ensure you are utilizing traffic school to its fullest.

For more information, refer to the California DMV's official traffic school page and the eligibility requirements.