Training for New Hampshire drivers is divided into two categories: Driver's Education for teens and Defensive Driving Improvement Programs for the general public.

Top Driver's Education

Students age 16 to 18 can meet the education requirements for a driver's license by attending a driver's ed class in their own high schools or at one of the commercial state-approved driving schools.

Be sure to check out The Unofficial DMV Guide's special section devoted to Teen Drivers.

Top Defensive Driving Improvement Programs

When you begin researching driving schools to attend, you'll want to ask plenty of questions based on your reasons for taking the course.

(Note that not all driving schools are listed, and you may find other methods of attending courses when you run across additional schools.)

Lowering Insurance Premiums

Contact your insurance company to ask questions about their policies concerning traffic schools. Many companies offer discounts on auto insurance premiums but ask how much and if you are eligible. Compare the cost of the course to the discount; some companies may not offer a discount large enough to offset the cost of some courses.

Too, you may or may not qualify for a discount based on your age or your driving record.

On that note, the AARP offers monthly refresher courses in many cities for drivers who are 50 years old or older for only $10. Check with your insurance company to determine if this course qualifies you for the discount.

Points Reduction

If you are considering attending traffic school to lower the points on your driving record, you need to check the state-approved list of schools. Only state-approved schools are authorized for point reduction.

DWI

If you lose your license due to a DWI conviction, you'll be required to take one of several alcohol awareness training programs.

Depending on the violation, and your previous driving record, you may be ordered to attend and successfully complete:

• An Impaired Driver Intervention Program (IDIP)

• A Weekend Impaired Driver Intervention Program (WIDIP)

• A Phase II program for impaired drivers

• The Multiple Offender Program (MOP)

Fees for these classes are costly. The 20-hour IDIP course, taught weekdays, is $310. The 20-hour WIDIP, taught on weekends, is $430, but this fee includes room and board.

The MOP is a seven-day in-house educational program, Friday morning to Friday morning. Even though the course is named the Multiple Offender Program, you could be ordered to attend if the severity of your conviction warrants it with a first offense. The cost of this course is $1,550 and can be paid in full with check, cash, money order, certified funds, or credit card. Payment arrangements can be made, too.

For more information, be sure to explore The Unofficial DMV Guide's special section about DUI & DWI offenses.

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