New Jersey offers several programs to help drivers improve and maintain their skills on the road. You are urged to make use of them as your needs and circumstances change over time.

Top Driver Improvement Program

If you accumulate 12 to 14 points on your driving record in two years, the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) will mail you a Notice of Scheduled Suspension. When you receive it, you have some choices. You can ask for a hearing or turn in your license for the suspension period. Or you can enroll in a Driver Improvement Program.

This $100 program is offered as an alternative to a 30-day suspension. Up to three points will be removed from your driving record if you successfully complete the program.

Top Defensive Driving Program

When you take a defensive driving course, you will realize a number of benefits:

• You will have learned essential driving skills.

• Two points will be removed from your driving record.

• You might be eligible for a reduction in your auto insurance premium.

Top Intoxicated Driver Program

Anyone charged with drunk driving will be detained at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC). This detention includes:

• A mandatory alcohol and highway safety education program.

• Evaluation for an alcohol or drug problem.

• If warranted, referral to an appropriate provider for 16 weeks (minimum) of treatment.

You'll need to participate in the assigned program to get your license back after your suspension is up.

Top Probationary Driver School Program

New license holders still under the two-year probationary period who accumulate four or more points by getting two or more traffic tickets must pay $100 to enroll in the Probationary Driver School Program. The program is designed to correct dangerous driving habits before they become fully ingrained.

If you pass the course, three points will be deducted from your record. If you fail, however, your license will be suspended.

Top Mature Driver Improvement Program

If you're 50 or older, you can reduce your auto insurance premiums by 5% by completing 55 Alive. This driver improvement course is designed to help mature drivers brush up on their defensive driving skills.

55 Alive is sponsored by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), which can be reached for more information at (888) 227-7669. Also check with your insurance company about what discount is offered―it might even be more than 5%.

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