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What Happens If You Skip Defensive Driving After a Ticket?

Receiving a traffic ticket can feel frustrating, and you might wonder if skipping a defensive driving course in Nova Scotia will really have any consequences. The short answer? Yes, skipping it can lead to significant repercussions. Here’s exactly what you need to know.

What Defensive Driving Means in Nova Scotia

A defensive driving course isn’t just a quick fix for your ticket—it’s a provincially approved program designed to help drivers refresh essential driving knowledge, reduce demerit points, and potentially lower insurance rates.

Consequences of Skipping Defensive Driving

Choosing to skip a defensive driving course can lead to:

  • Higher Demerit Points
    Without the course, the points you received from your ticket will remain fully intact. Too many points could lead to license suspension.
  • Increased Insurance Premiums
    Insurance companies regularly check your driving record. Unaddressed tickets may lead to increased premiums, costing you more in the long run.
  • Risk of License Suspension
    Nova Scotia has strict policies regarding demerit points. Skipping defensive driving could push you closer to the limit, eventually resulting in the suspension of your driver’s license.
  • Missed Opportunity for Early ‘N’ Removal
    Graduated drivers (holding a GDL ‘N’ license) who complete defensive driving may become eligible to have the ‘N’ removed early. Skipping the course means missing this beneficial opportunity.

How Defensive Driving Helps You

By completing a defensive driving course, you can:

  • Reduce Demerit Points: Up to four points may be removed from your record upon successful completion.
  • Lower Insurance Costs: Insurance providers often offer discounted rates for drivers who complete defensive driving.
  • Enhance Driving Safety: Improve your awareness and defensive driving skills, keeping you and others safer on Nova Scotia roads.

How to Register for a Defensive Driving Course in Nova Scotia

At Artin Driving School, our Defensive Driving Course is approved province-wide, fully online, and recognized by Access Nova Scotia. Click here to learn more and enroll now.

Don’t risk unnecessary penalties—be proactive, protect your driving privileges, and save money in the long run by completing your defensive driving course today.

FAQ

In most cases, no, it is not mandatory. However, a judge can order you to complete a course as part of a ruling. For the majority of drivers, it’s a voluntary and highly recommended option to reduce the consequences of a traffic ticket.

A provincially approved defensive driving course allows you to remove up to four demerit points from your driving record. This can be crucial for avoiding a license suspension, which is triggered at 10 points for fully licensed drivers. You can find more details on the official NS government website.

While it is not a guarantee, many insurance providers look favourably upon drivers who proactively complete a defensive driving course. Some offer specific discounts, while for others, it demonstrates responsibility that can influence your premium at renewal time. It’s always best to check directly with your insurance broker to see how it affects your policy.

Ideally within 90 days of receiving your ticket, or sooner if mandated by a judge or insurance company.

Disclaimer
The information provided on this post is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as professional advice or guidance. While Artin Driving School strives to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the information shared, Artin Driving School makes no guarantees, warranties, or representations regarding the completeness, reliability, or suitability of any content posted.

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