North Dakota Defensive Driving Point Reduction Program: What You Need to Know

If you’ve recently received a traffic ticket in North Dakota or are looking to clean up your driving record, the North Dakota Defensive Driving Point Reduction Program from Defensive Drivers Institute is the perfect solution. This convenient online course is approved by the state and allows you to reduce or prevent points on your driving record—all while learning to become a safer, more confident driver.

Benefits of the Program

✅ Remove Points from Your Record: Reduce your total by up to 3 points by completing the course.

✅ Prevent Points from Being Added: Stop up to 5 points from appearing on your record following a new violation.

✅ Protect Against License Suspension: Avoid reaching the point threshold that can lead to suspension.

✅ Save on Insurance: A cleaner record may qualify you for lower premiums.

✅ Improve Driving Skills: Learn updated laws and safe driving practices.

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Common Violations That Add Points

Here are some common scenarios where a North Dakota driver may receive points on their license:

• Speeding: Going 11–15 mph over the speed limit may result in 3 points. Higher speeds can result in 5 points or more.
• Failure to Yield: Not yielding at an intersection or to pedestrians typically adds 2–3 points.
• Following Too Closely: Tailgating another vehicle can result in 3 points.
• Improper Lane Change: Unsafe or illegal lane changes can lead to 2–4 points.
• Running a Red Light or Stop Sign: This offense typically results in 3 points.
• Driving Without Liability Insurance: May result in 4 points and a fine.
• Failure to Use a Turn Signal: Often results in 1–2 points.
• Careless or Reckless Driving: These more serious violations can carry 6 or more points.

If you’ve committed one of these infractions recently—or have past points on your record—our course can help.

Understanding North Dakota’s Point System and Penalties

North Dakota, like many states, uses a point system to track driving offenses. Each traffic violation adds a certain number of points to your driving record. If a driver accumulates 12 or more points, their license will be suspended for 7 days per point over 11. For example, 12 points results in a 7-day suspension, 13 points is 14 days, and so on. The stakes are even higher for young drivers – if you’re under 18 and accumulate 6 or more points, your driving privileges are canceled. Clearly, keeping points off your record is important to avoid these harsh penalties.

Luckily, North Dakota offers ways to manage your points. If you can keep a clean record, one point automatically drops off every 3 months without new violations. But more proactively, the state allows drivers to take a defensive driving course to reduce points or even prevent points from being added in the first place. That’s where the North Dakota Defensive Driving Point Reduction program comes in.

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What Is the Defensive Driving Point Reduction Program?

North Dakota’s Defensive Driving Point Reduction program is an initiative that lets drivers offset or avoid points on their license by completing an approved safety course. Here are the key aspects of how the program works:

• Remove Existing Points: You can take an approved defensive driving course to remove 3 points from your current driving record. This 3-point reduction can be used to bring your point total down (potentially from say 12 to 9, or 5 to 2, etc.), helping you avoid reaching suspension level. Drivers are allowed to use this point reduction once every 12 months.

• “In Lieu of Points” for a New Ticket: If you receive a traffic citation that carries 5 points or fewer, you may take the defensive driving course instead of having those points added to your record. In other words, the violation will still be on record, but zero points will be recorded for it (hence the name of Defensive Drivers Institute’s “0-Point Defensive Driving” course). To use this option, you must notify the court when you pay or bond the ticket that you intend to take the course, and then complete the course within 30 days. You’ll need to provide proof of completion to the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) within that 30-day window so the points are not applied.

• Frequency Limit: Whether you’re using the course to erase existing points or to prevent new points, you can only take advantage of the program once every twelve months. You won’t be able to continuously take courses for every single ticket – the benefit is limited to one course per year.

In summary, the Defensive Driving Point Reduction program is a state-approved avenue to keep your driving record cleaner. It can remove 3 points from your tally or stop up to 5 points from a minor violation from ever hitting your record. This is invaluable if you’re nearing the suspension threshold or if you’re a younger driver close to the 6-point limit. Next, we’ll discuss who might want to use this program and why.

Course Details: What to Expect from the ND Defensive Driving Course

North Dakota’s defensive driving course is designed to be convenient, affordable, and informative. All courses approved for the point reduction program meet state requirements set by the NDDOT. Here are the key details and common FAQs about the course itself:

• State-Approved Providers: You must take the course from a provider licensed by the NDDOT/ND Highway Patrol for it to count. The NDDOT maintains a list of approved online defensive driving courses that qualify for the 3-point reduction. These include well-known programs (AAA, AARP, North Dakota Safety Council, etc.) as well as the Defensive Drivers Institute’s “0-Point Defensive Driving” course. Choosing any course on the approved list will ensure your completion certificate is accepted. (Tip: Defensive Drivers Institute’s course is one of the approved options and is specifically tailored to North Dakota’s rules.)

• Course Length – 4 Hours Online: The defensive driving course is approximately 4 hours long, as required by the state for point reduction. This is typically a self-paced online course – you do not have to spend four hours straight if you don’t want to. The system allows you to log in and out; you can break it up into multiple sessions and complete it at your own pace. Some providers, like the ND Safety Council, advertise ~5 hours which may include additional content or breaks, but 4 hours is the standard length for most online courses.

• Content and Format: The course covers a broad range of driver safety and accident prevention topics. You’ll learn or review things like defensive driving techniques, sharing the road with others (motorcycles, trucks, pedestrians), the effects of distractions or impairments (like texting or alcohol) on driving, North Dakota traffic laws and regulations, road signs, and safe driving strategies in various conditions. The material is presented in an engaging way – expect a mix of text, videos, animations, and possibly audio narration to keep it interesting. For example, Defensive Drivers Institute’s online course is interactive and even offers audio read-along and a study guide to accommodate different learning styles. The goal is to reinforce good driving habits and attitudes, not just to pass a test.

• Final Exam Requirements: To successfully complete the course, you will need to pass a final exam at the end. North Dakota mandates a passing score of around 80% on the exam. The exam typically consists of multiple-choice questions drawn from the course material. Don’t be intimidated, though – the courses are designed to prepare you well, and most providers allow unlimited retakes of the final exam if you don’t pass on the first try. (For instance, you can re-take the test until you achieve the 80% score, at no extra charge, which virtually guarantees you’ll pass and get your certificate.)

• Cost of the Course: Pricing can vary by provider, but the good news is these courses are generally inexpensive, especially compared to the cost of increased insurance premiums or a license suspension. Defensive Drivers Institute’s North Dakota course is only $18.95 – a very affordable option. Other providers range anywhere from around $5 (for a basic text-only course) up to $50 or more, depending on features and memberships. There are often promotions or discounts available. Given that the course can also save you money on insurance and prevent costly penalties, it’s a worthwhile investment.

• Where and How to Take It: The course is offered 100% online by most providers, meaning you can take it anytime, anywhere you have an internet connection. Use your computer, tablet, or even a smartphone – the platforms are usually mobile-friendly. The ability to pause and resume later is especially convenient; your progress is saved as you go. Gone are the days of sitting in a classroom on a Saturday – you can complete this program from the comfort of home, on your own schedule.

Overall, expect a four-hour online class with user-friendly content and a straightforward final quiz. The courses are designed to help you succeed and become a safer driver, not to trick you. Next, we’ll walk through how to actually get started and complete the process to ensure you get those points reduced.

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How to Complete the Course and Reduce Your Points: Step by Step

Taking advantage of the point reduction program in North Dakota is simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make sure you do everything correctly from start to finish:

1. Verify Your Eligibility: Confirm that you haven’t taken a defensive driving course for point reduction in the last 12 months. Also, if you received a new ticket, check that it’s eligible (the violation should be 5 points or fewer for the “in lieu of points” option). Most common minor tickets qualify.

2. Notify the Court (if applicable): If you plan to take the course to avoid points from a recent citation, let the court know when you pay or contest the ticket. In North Dakota, you must inform the court at the time you post bond or pay the fine that you intend to take a defensive driving course in lieu of the points. The court will make a note so that the points aren’t added immediately.

3. Enroll in an Approved Course: Choose one of the NDDOT-approved defensive driving courses. For example, you can enroll in the Defensive Drivers Institute’s North Dakota Defensive Driving Course online in just a few minutes. (It’s state-approved and ND-court accepted, so you can be confident it meets requirements.) You’ll typically create an account, pay the course fee, and get started right away.

4. Complete the Online Course: Work through the course modules at your own pace. You can do it all in one sitting (~4 hours) or break it up over days – whatever suits your schedule. Pay attention to the material, since it will help on the quizzes and final exam. The course may have short quizzes after each chapter to reinforce your learning (these usually don’t count against you; they’re practice). There is a final exam at the end which you need to pass with 80% or higher. Don’t worry – you can retake the final if needed, and the course will prepare you for it. Most people pass with no issues.

5. Obtain Your Certificate of Completion: After passing the final exam, you’ll receive a certificate of completion. Many online courses will generate a digital certificate instantly that you can download or print. Make sure your name and information are correct on the certificate. Important: if you took the course for a ticket, note your case or citation number as instructed; and if your driver’s license number isn’t on the certificate, add it (some providers, like the ND Safety Council, instruct students to handwrite their ND license number on the certificate for identification).

6. Submit the Certificate to NDDOT (if needed): The final step is to ensure the NDDOT knows you completed the course so they can adjust your driving record. Many online providers handle this for you electronically – for instance, Defensive Drivers Institute will automatically submit your completion certificate directly to the NDDOT’s Drivers License Division on your behalf. This is a huge convenience, as it saves you the trouble of mailing or emailing it yourself. If your course provider does not automatically report your completion, then you are responsible for sending the certificate to NDDOT. You can email it to the Driver License Division at [email protected] or mail it to NDDOT in Bismarck. (Always keep a copy for your records as well.)

7. Confirm Your Points Were Reduced: Give the NDDOT a little time to process your certificate (if submitted electronically, this can be very fast; mailed might take longer). You may want to follow up by checking your driving record or calling the Drivers License Division to ensure that 3 points were deducted or that the new violation’s points were not added. Typically, if all instructions were followed, your record will reflect the changes. A successful completion means either 3 points come off your total (if you did it for point reduction) or the recent 5-point-or-less violation shows up with 0 points recorded (if you did it in lieu of points).

By following these steps, you’ll have properly completed the program and secured your point reduction/credit. Remember that you can only do this once every 12 months, so drive safely moving forward – don’t rely on being able to repeatedly erase points. In the next section, we’ll touch on the added bonus of insurance discounts and why the course is a win-win for drivers.

Insurance Discounts: Save Money by Driving Safely

One of the best “extras” that comes with completing the North Dakota defensive driving course is the potential for auto insurance discounts. Insurance companies view drivers who take safety courses as lower risk, and North Dakota has even legislated this perk into law. Here’s what you should know:

• State-Mandated Discount: North Dakota law requires insurance companies to offer a discount for completing an approved accident prevention course. According to this law, insurers must give you a break on your car insurance premium (for liability and collision coverage) if you show proof of course completion. The typical discount is around 10% off your base premium, though the exact amount and how it’s applied can depend on the insurer. This isn’t a one-time coupon but a sustained discount on your rates.

• Discount Duration: The discount for a defensive driving course is not indefinite; in North Dakota it’s generally valid for 3 years. That means once you complete the course and get your discount, you’ll enjoy lower premiums for the next three years. After that, you would need to retake a course to continue getting the discount (which is a good reason to stay up-to-date on safe driving practices every few years!). Some insurers may require you to be a certain age (e.g. 55 and older) to qualify for the discount, while others extend it to all drivers – check with your provider on their rules. Many companies honor the discount for any driver, not just seniors, thanks to the state’s mandate.

• How to Get the Discount: After you finish the course, send your completion certificate to your insurance agent or company and ask for the defensive driving course discount. If you took the course with the intention of reducing points, you might as well get the insurance savings too. Often the insurer will apply the discount at your next policy renewal once they have your documentation. If you’re shopping for insurance, mention that you’ve completed a state-approved defensive driving course – that could immediately fetch you a lower quote.

• Insurance Savings Can Be Significant: A 5–10% reduction might not sound huge, but consider your annual premium – over three years it adds up. Many students report saving hundreds of dollars. For example, one provider noted that students commonly saved $900–$1,500 over three years from the course discount (actual savings depend on your policy cost). Essentially, the course can pay for itself many times over through insurance savings alone, not to mention the benefits of avoiding fines or suspensions.

In short, the defensive driving course not only protects your driving record but can also put money back in your pocket. It’s a smart move financially and safety-wise. Just be sure to inquire with your insurer about the discount – sometimes you have to ask to get it, even though it’s mandated.

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Why Choose Defensive Drivers Institute’s ND Course?

While there are multiple approved courses available, Defensive Drivers Institute’s North Dakota Defensive Driving Course offers some distinct advantages that make the process especially easy and effective for you:

• State-Approved and Court-Accepted: Defensive Drivers Institute (DDI) is fully licensed by North Dakota – it appears right on the NDDOT’s list of approved point reduction courses. That means NDDOT and ND courts recognize DDI’s course for both the 3-point reduction and the 0-point in-lieu program. You can trust that taking their course will meet all requirements to adjust your points.

• Fully Online & Self-Paced: DDI’s course is a 4-hour online program that you can take from anywhere. It’s designed to be user-friendly and flexible. You can start and stop as needed, fitting it into your schedule. The course is accessible 24/7 on your computer or mobile device, so whether you prefer to do it all in one evening or spread it out over a week, it’s up to you. Your progress is saved, so you’ll never lose your place.

• Engaging Content with Extras: Defensive Drivers Institute prides itself on providing an interactive learning experience. The course includes engaging modules on defensive driving techniques, rules of the road, and hazard avoidance specific to North Dakota driving conditions. Audio read-along is available, which is great if you prefer to listen or have difficulty reading on a screen for long periods. They even offer a study guide to review key points. The content isn’t just a dry lecture – it’s made to keep you interested and help you remember the safety lessons long after the course.

• Affordable Price: At $18.95, DDI’s North Dakota course is one of the most affordable options in the state. Many other courses cost $30, $50, or more. Despite the low price, you still get a high-quality, fully accredited course. There are no hidden fees – for example, unlimited exam retakes are included free (if you even need them), and your completion certificate comes at no extra charge. This is a small price to pay considering it can save you from a license suspension or higher insurance premiums.

• Instant Certificate Delivery to NDDOT: One of DDI’s standout features is that **upon completion, they provide an instant digital certificate and automatically submit it directly to the NDDOT for you. This is incredibly convenient – it means you don’t have to worry about sending paperwork. The moment you finish and pass the final test, your completion is reported to the state’s Drivers License Division electronically. You also get a printable copy of your certificate for your own records. Many other providers simply give you a certificate and leave it up to you to forward it to the DOT. DDI’s handling of the filing step helps ensure your points actually get removed in a timely manner, without any extra effort on your part.

• Great Customer Support: While this may not be on the official NDDOT list, it’s worth noting that providers like DDI offer customer support if you have any questions during the process. If you encounter any technical issues or have questions about the material, help is just a call or email away. Since they specialize in defensive driving courses, they’re familiar with North Dakota’s rules and can guide you if needed.

Overall, Defensive Drivers Institute’s course combines convenience, quality, and value. It checks all the boxes: state-approved, easy to complete online, low cost, and it even takes care of the final step of delivering your completion to the DOT. That makes the whole experience hassle-free for drivers.

Final Thoughts: Drive Safer and Protect Your Record

North Dakota’s Defensive Driving Point Reduction program is a fantastic resource for drivers. It’s not often that you get a second chance when it comes to traffic violations, but this program gives you exactly that – an opportunity to wipe away minor mistakes (up to 3 points at a time) or prevent a new ticket from blemishing your record. By investing just a few hours online, you can save yourself from a possible license suspension, keep your insurance rates low, and most importantly, become a safer driver.

To recap the benefits:

• Reduce or prevent points: Keep your driving privileges secure by staying well below the suspension thresholds.

• Avoid insurance hikes and earn discounts: Fewer points and an approved course completion can mean significantly cheaper car insurance.

• Refresh your skills: The defensive driving techniques you learn will help you avoid accidents and tickets in the future, which protects both you and others on the road.

• Quick and convenient: The process is straightforward – a one-time 4-hour online class with a simple exam, which you can take from home on your own schedule.

• Official and reliable: The program is backed by the NDDOT and ND Highway Patrol, with a list of vetted courses ensuring you get credible information and that your effort counts towards your record.

If you’re a North Dakota driver with points on your record or a recent ticket in hand, taking a defensive driving course is one of the best moves you can make. It’s a minor time commitment with major returns. Just be sure to choose a state-approved course (like the one offered by Defensive Drivers Institute for $18.95) and follow the required steps to report your completion. Thousands of ND drivers have already used these courses to clean up their records and drive with peace of mind.

In the end, the Defensive Driving Point Reduction program is about encouraging safer driving while giving you a break for doing the right thing. It’s a win-win for you and for overall road safety in North Dakota. So don’t wait until you’re in a tight spot – whether you need to knock off some points or you’re simply proactive about keeping your driving history spotless, consider enrolling in the course. Drive safe, protect your points, and enjoy the journey with the confidence that you’re well on your way to being an even more responsible driver on North Dakota’s roads. Safe travels!

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