Defensive Driving vs. Traffic Survival School
The two Arizona classes people mix up — what each does, who needs which, and where Beep Beep fits.
Two Different Classes, Two Different Jobs
Searching for a “defensive driving school” or “traffic school” in Arizona can send you to the wrong course. Here is how to tell which one you need before you pay.
| Defensive Driving School (DDS) | Traffic Survival School (TSS) | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Optional diversion — can dismiss an eligible traffic ticket | Required by MVD after certain violations or point totals |
| Overseen by | Arizona Supreme Court / your court | ADOT Motor Vehicle Division |
| Typical trigger | Eligible moving-violation citation, chosen before your court date | 8+ points in 12 months, DUI reinstatement, red-light, aggressive driving, first violation under 18, and similar |
| Format | Often online (at least 4 hours) | In-person (virtual only with an approved waiver) |
| Beep Beep offers it? | No | Yes — $160 in person / $180 virtual |
Which one do I need?
- You received a citation and your court offers defensive driving: use a court-approved Defensive Driving School and finish before your deadline. The Arizona courts publish details in their defensive driving FAQ.
- MVD sent a notice, or you hit 8+ points in 12 months: you likely need Traffic Survival School. See ADOT's Traffic Survival School page, then register here.
- Photo radar or red-light ticket: the right course depends on your citation. Check the instructions on the notice or call the court.
Take Traffic Survival School near you
Phoenix · Chandler · En español
This page is general information, not legal advice. Your court and MVD notices control your requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Traffic Survival School the same as defensive driving school in Arizona?
No. Traffic Survival Schools are licensed by ADOT's Motor Vehicle Division. Defensive Driving Schools are administered through the Arizona Supreme Court. They are different courses for different situations.
Which one dismisses my ticket?
A court-certified Defensive Driving School can, when you are eligible and the court allows it. Traffic Survival School does not dismiss tickets — it is the class MVD requires in certain situations, such as 8 or more points in 12 months.
Who is eligible for the defensive driving diversion option?
Per the Arizona courts, eligible drivers can generally use the option once every 12 months and must complete the course at least 7 days before the court date. Commercial drivers and serious cases are excluded. Always confirm your eligibility with the court listed on your citation.
Does Beep Beep teach defensive driving?
No. Beep Beep is an ADOT-authorized Traffic Survival School. If your citation offers defensive driving school, choose a school from your court's approved list. If MVD sent you a notice for Traffic Survival School, we can help.
How much is defensive driving school in Arizona?
Fees are set by each court-approved school, so we don't quote them. Our own Traffic Survival School costs $160 in person or $180 virtual.
What if I’m not sure which class I need?
Call us at (480) 744-2722 with your MVD notice or citation in hand. If it isn't a Traffic Survival School situation, we’ll tell you so.
Got an MVD Notice for Traffic Survival School?
Register online or call us and we’ll confirm it’s the right class before you pay.