Driving is a privilege that comes with responsibilities, and maintaining a clean driving record is essential for safe and legal operation on Ohio’s roads. If you’ve accumulated points on your license due to traffic violations, you might be concerned about the impact on your driving privileges, insurance rates, or even employment opportunities. Fortunately, Ohio offers a solution: the state’s approved remedial driving course, which allows drivers to credit points and get back on track.
Understanding License Points in Ohio
Ohio’s Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) assigns points to your driving record for traffic violations. The severity of the offense determines how many points are added. For instance, minor infractions such as speeding typically add two points, while more serious violations like reckless driving can add four or six points.
Accumulating 12 or more points within a two-year period results in a license suspension. This system is designed to encourage safe driving practices, but mistakes can happen. Ohio’s remedial driving class provides a practical way for drivers to address these issues before they escalate.
What Is the Remedial Driving Class?
Ohio’s remedial driving course is an educational program aimed at promoting safe driving habits and improving drivers’ understanding of traffic laws. Approved by the Ohio BMV, this course is available online and provides a flexible, self-paced option for drivers who need to improve their records.
By successfully completing the class, participants can credit two points back to their driving record once every three years. This credit can help drivers avoid the risk of suspension and the potential financial consequences of having a high-point record.
Who Should Consider the Driving Class?
The remedial driving course is ideal for drivers who:
- Have accumulated points on their license and want to credit them back.
- Wish to refresh their knowledge of traffic laws and safe driving practices.
- Need to meet court-ordered requirements for a traffic violation.
- Want to avoid higher insurance premiums caused by multiple points on their record.
How the Course Works
Online Format for Convenience
The course is offered online, allowing you to complete it from the comfort of your home. This flexibility is particularly helpful for busy professionals, parents, or anyone with a packed schedule.
Self-Paced Learning
You can work through the modules at your own pace, ensuring you have enough time to absorb the material. There’s no need to rush, and you can revisit sections as needed.
Comprehensive Content
The course includes engaging lessons on safe driving techniques, defensive driving strategies, and an overview of Ohio traffic laws. The focus is on practical knowledge that helps you become a safer and more responsible driver.
Certificate of Completion
Once you finish the course, you’ll receive a certificate that you can present to the Ohio BMV. This certificate is your ticket to credit two license points back and demonstrates your commitment to improving your driving habits.
Benefits of Ohio’s Driving Class
- Point Credit: The most immediate benefit of completing the class is the two-point credit on your license. This can be a lifesaver if you’re nearing the 12-point threshold.
- Improved Driving Knowledge: The course offers valuable insights into safe driving techniques and Ohio’s traffic laws, helping you avoid future violations and maintain a clean record.
- Lower Insurance Costs: Insurance companies often raise premiums for drivers with points on their record. By crediting points back, you may qualify for better rates, saving money in the long run.
- Convenience and Flexibility: The online format makes it easy to fit the course into your schedule, regardless of your other commitments.
Steps to Credit Points Back
- Check Your Eligibility: Confirm with the Ohio BMV that you’re eligible for the two-point credit. Drivers can only use this option once every three years.
- Enroll in an Approved Course: Make sure the course you choose is approved by the Ohio BMV. Online options like Improved Driving offer a user-friendly platform and engaging content.
- Complete the Course: Work through the lessons at your own pace. Take your time to absorb the material, as it will benefit you in the long run.
- Submit Your Certificate: Once you finish the course, submit your certificate of completion to the BMV to have your two points credited back to your record.
Why Choose an Online Option?
Online driving courses like the one offered by Improved Driving provide numerous advantages. They are designed to be engaging, with video-based lessons that make learning enjoyable. The self-paced structure ensures you can complete the course on your own terms without disrupting your daily routine.
Avoiding Future Points
While the driving class helps you recover from past mistakes, it’s also an opportunity to commit to better driving habits moving forward. Here are some tips to avoid accumulating points in the future:
- Follow posted speed limits and traffic signs.
- Avoid distractions like texting or using your phone while driving.
- Practice defensive driving techniques to anticipate potential hazards.
- Stay up-to-date on Ohio’s traffic laws and regulations.
- Regularly inspect your vehicle to ensure it’s in safe operating condition.
Final Thoughts
Ohio’s remedial driving class is more than just a way to credit two license points back—it’s a valuable tool for improving your driving skills and maintaining a clean record. By completing this course, you not only protect your driving privileges but also demonstrate a commitment to safer roads for everyone.
Take advantage of this opportunity to refresh your knowledge, save money on insurance, and credit points back to your record. Enroll in an online driving class today and take the first step toward becoming a more responsible and confident driver.
Credit Points on Your License in Ohio with OTPDC
For a convenient, efficient way to manage your driving record, check out the Online Two Point Driving Course. Based in Independence, Ohio, OTPDC provides the best-value driver improvement courses. Visit our website to learn more!
Jim Trakas is a licensed instructor with the Ohio Department of Public Safety’s Driver Training Program. He has a distinguished history of public service, including his role as a former member of the Ohio House of Representatives and current Councilperson at Large for the City of Independence.
As the founder and owner of the American Online Learning Center, Jim has been providing comprehensive behavioral corrective programming since 2014, helping individuals achieve meaningful personal growth and development.
Jim’s commitment to service extends to his military background, where he has earned several prestigious honors. He was awarded the Ohio Commendation Medal by the Ohio Army National Guard and the Pandemic Campaign Medal by the United States Public Health Service. Additionally, he is an Honor Graduate of the Ohio Military Reserve Training Academy’s Officer Candidate School and a two-time recipient of the Military Proficiency Award, as well as the Military Achievement Award.
