Defensive Driving

Defensive Driving Course

South Carolina's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), in conjunction with the state's 16 technical colleges and the National Safety Council, offers a statewide defensive driving class called the Defensive Driving Course (DDC).

This eight-hour course is offered statewide at any one of South Carolina's 16 technical colleges. Course times and fees vary with each college. Generally, expect to pay around $75.

Ticket Dismissal and Point Reduction

This class does not have the power to dismiss a ticket. You should check with your district court about ticket dismissal.

However, successful completion of this course can trim up to four points off your driving record once every three years.

If you have less than four points on your record the class will only reduce those number of points. Or, in other words, if you have two points on your record the class will eliminate those two points with no two point carry-over to be used, if needed, towards a future violation.

Upon completing the course in order to have points trimmed from your driving record you must mail a copy (not the original) of your course certificate along with a mail order for $20 to:

• National Safety Council

• South Carolina Chapter

• 455 Saint Andrews Road

• Building D

• Ste. 1

• Columbia, SC 29210

Insurance Discounts

The Defensive Driving Course does not reduce your auto insurance rates. Check with your insurance carrier about ways to obtain discounts.