Any licensed Florida driver is eligible to take the Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course if you elect it for a qualifying citation, are court-ordered, or enroll voluntarily. Specific eligibility rules apply to each situation.
The Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course helps drivers meet state or court requirements and may prevent points from being added to your record. Eligibility depends on why you want or need to take the course. Understanding the rules ensures you meet Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) requirements and avoid unnecessary issues.
Eligibility for Electing the Course After a Traffic Citation
You may elect to take the Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course if you receive a qualifying non-criminal moving violation. To be eligible, you must:
- Hold a valid Florida driver’s license (not a Commercial Driver’s License)
- Not have elected the course in the past 12 months
- Not have used all 8 lifetime elections
- Not have been cited for speeding 30 or more miles per hour over the posted speed limit
You may elect the course once every 12 months, up to 8 times in your lifetime, as stated in Florida Statute 318.14(9), effective July 1, 2024. For official details, visit the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) driver improvement page: the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
Eligibility When Ordered by a Court
A judge or magistrate may require you to complete the Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course as part of a court order. If you are court-ordered, the 12-month and lifetime election limits do not apply. Always confirm with your court that the course you choose meets the terms of your order before enrolling.
Voluntary Enrollment in the Course
Any licensed Florida driver can take the Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course voluntarily at any time. Voluntary enrollment does not prevent points from being added to your driving record, but some insurance providers may offer a discount if you present your course certificate. Check with your insurance company to see if you qualify.
Who Is Not Eligible to Elect the Course
You cannot elect the Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course if:
- You hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
- You have already elected the course within the past 12 months
- You have used all 8 of your lifetime elections
- Your citation was for speeding 30 or more miles per hour over the posted speed limit
If you are not eligible to elect the course, you may still be able to take it if a court orders you to do so.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Available statewide | Yes |
| Election limit | Once per 12-month period |
| Lifetime election limit | 8 times (Florida Statute 318.14(9), effective July 1, 2024) |
| CDL holders eligible to elect | No |
| Court-ordered enrollment | Yes — confirm course is accepted with your court |
| Voluntary enrollment | Yes, at any time |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I am eligible for the Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course?
Check the back of your citation or contact the clerk of court in the county where your citation was issued. They can confirm if your violation is eligible for the Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course.
Can I take the Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course with an out-of-state license?
Let the course provider know before you enroll. Eligibility for point prevention with an out-of-state license depends on your situation and the requirements of the court or agency involved.
Does voluntary enrollment use one of my 8 lifetime elections?
No. Only a formal election made in connection with a qualifying citation counts toward your lifetime limit.
Can a CDL holder take the Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course?
A CDL holder cannot elect the course for point prevention, but a judge may order a CDL holder to complete the course as part of a court proceeding. Confirm with your court before enrolling.
What happens if I am not eligible for the Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course?
If you are not eligible to elect the course, you may still be able to take it if a court orders you to do so. Contact your court for options.