TicketSchool > Blog > Texas > What Type of Driving Record for Defensive Driving Texas Courts Is Required?
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If you were ticketed for a motor vehicle or traffic violation on Texas roads, you’ve probably already been notified that you’re eligible for the defensive driving course. Here’s how to complete the process without having to visit a government agency.

Why Do Courts Need My Texas Driving Record, and Which Certified Copy Should I Order?

The court needs your driving record to ensure you haven’t taken a defensive driving course more than the allowed one time per year. You’ll need to order a Certified Type 3A driving record.

This copy of your driving record lists all tickets and accidents in your driving history. It’s the only type that will be accepted when the court requires it to be turned in along with your defensive driving course certificate; any driving record type other than the 3A (commercial driver record, etc.) will not be accepted.

Do I Have to Take a Defensive Driving Course In Person?

While you might have had no other choice in the past but to sit in class, today’s Texas defensive driving courses are now available to take online.

However, every course provider offers different ways to communicate information. Some courses are mostly text-based while others have a good amount of videos and animations, so it is important to do your research if you want to get the most out of your course.

How WillI I Benefit from Taking the Defensive Driving Course Online?

Taking an online course for defensive driving allows Texas drivers to:

  • Attend class from anywhere that has internet access.
  • Access course material when you have time vs. all at once.
  • Save your progress so that you can continue at another time.
  • Switch from one device to another if needed.
  • Enjoy reduced insurance costs and other bonuses.

Take These Steps Before Ordering a Driver Record and Course

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After you get a ticket, the first thing to do is look at the instructions to find out who you need to contact and how to take care of the ticket. Those instructions should tell you how to notify the court if you would like to take defensive driving (aka driver safety course) to keep the ticket from going on your record. The court will then provide you with the information on any applicable court fees and let you know if you’re eligible to take the defensive driving course. At that time, the court will also give you a deadline for when you must turn in your defensive driving course completion certificate, and in most cases submit a copy of your Texas Type 3A driving record.

Order Your Driving Record and Online Course Today

Ticket School online defensive driving courses are approved by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation and give you the option to order your driver record through us. This ensures that you get the right one and that you have both your course certificate and driver record to turn in to the court at the same time. Our online courses feature HD video, unlimited 24 hour access, and much more. Visit us online now to order your course and driving record, or call (800) 558-9887.