In Texas, you can take a defensive driving course for ticket dismissal as long as you haven't completed one for a traffic violation in the past 12 months.
However, you cannot attend if any of the following apply:
- You hold a commercial driver's license (CDL)
- You received a ticket in a construction zone
- You were caught speeding more than 25 MPH over the limit
- You didn't have insurance at the time of the ticket
- You left the scene of an accident (hit and run)
- You violated a school bus passing law
Important: Make sure you request permission from the court to attend defensive driving when you pay your fine — you typically can't add it afterward. And always double-check with your local court, since rules can vary by jurisdiction.