You must get approval before enrolling in the Missouri Driver Improvement Program—either from a court or the Fine Collection Center, depending on your citation. Voluntary enrollment is not available.
The Missouri Driver Improvement Program helps eligible drivers prevent points from being added to their driving record. However, you cannot enroll in the course on your own. The process for getting approval depends on who issued your citation and how your case is handled.
When Do You Need Court Approval for the Missouri Driver Improvement Program?
If a municipal or county police officer issued your citation, or if your case is handled by a local court, you need a judge’s approval before enrolling in the Missouri Driver Improvement Program. The judge will decide if you are eligible as part of your court hearing. Not every violation qualifies, and the court reviews eligibility on a case-by-case basis.
Fine Collection Center (FCC) Approval Process
If a Missouri State Highway Patrol officer issued your citation and your county is on the Fine Collection Center’s approved list, you may qualify for automatic approval when you pay your fine to the FCC. In these cases, you do not need to appear in court. If you are unsure which process applies, contact the court or the FCC in the county where you received your ticket.
Why Is Approval Required for the Missouri Driver Improvement Program?
The Missouri Driver Improvement Program is regulated by the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) under Missouri Revised Statutes §302.302. The point prevention benefit is only available if you get official approval from a court or the FCC. Without this approval, the DOR cannot stay the assessment of points on your driving record. For more details, visit the Missouri Department of Revenue’s driver improvement program page: Missouri DOR Driver Improvement Program.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Approval required | Yes — before enrolling |
| Voluntary enrollment | Not available |
| Who approves | A court (case-by-case) or the FCC (automatic for qualifying counties) |
| What to do first | Confirm your approval type before enrolling |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need court approval before enrolling in the Missouri Driver Improvement Program?
No. You must get approval before enrolling. Enrolling without approval will not provide the point prevention benefit.
What if the court did not mention the Missouri Driver Improvement Program?
Ask your attorney or the court clerk if you are eligible for the Missouri Driver Improvement Program as part of your traffic case. Not all courts offer it for every violation.
If I pay my fine to the FCC, am I automatically enrolled in the Missouri Driver Improvement Program?
No. FCC approval means you are eligible to enroll in a Missouri Driver Improvement Program course, but you must still register and complete the course.
How do I know if my county is on the FCC-approved list?
Contact the Fine Collection Center or check with the court in the county where you received your citation to confirm if your county qualifies for FCC approval.
Who regulates the Missouri Driver Improvement Program?
The Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) regulates the Missouri Driver Improvement Program and sets the rules for approval and point prevention.