Getting a traffic ticket can be a pain in the neck.
From the fine to the license points, plus increased insurance costs — a ticket is a bummer in more ways than one.
Unintentionally going over the speed limit in New Mexico normally isn’t a big issue as the fine is just $25.
But larger tickets, like speeding in a construction area, aren't as easy to deal with.
Fines both large and small can add to your traffic points, which increases insurance premiums, possibly costing you hundreds of dollars in the long term.
Thankfully, in New Mexico, you can dismiss tickets and traffic points by taking an online driver safety course commonly known as driver safety/defensive driving.
New Mexico has even approved online traffic school courses that you can do from the comfort of your own home.
In this article, I'll go over the best online traffic schools in New Mexico guaranteed to dismiss your pesky traffic ticket.
Let's get into it.
Top 5 Best Online Traffic Schools in New Mexico
The top 5 are:
Let’s take a look at each one.
Improv
If you're looking for something different, Improv Traffic School has designed a unique course that can be enjoyed by drivers of all ages.
Created by Hollywood writers, driving safety experts, and comedians, this video-based course is filled with informative content disguised as funny jokes that are guaranteed to keep you wanting more.
What's even greater is that the course is super easy to complete! It contains 10 short lessons that have been designed to meet the minimum state requirements in New Mexico.
The test is also pretty basic, containing only 25 MCQ questions that you'd probably be able to pass even if you don't watch the course material.
However, in the unlikely chance that you do fail the test, there's no need to worry. Improv gives you unlimited test retries, making the whole process stress-free.
What’s more, Improv has a pretty simple website setup. So, even if you’re not as tech-savvy, you can still gain much of this course’s benefits.
If you want an even better experience, you should consider using their mobile app. You can find it on the Apple App Store.
With over 20 years of experience in multiple states across the country, iDriveSafely courses really do teach you how to drive safely.
Designed to provide an engaging way to learn, this course includes videos, audio clips, and more — making for a one-of-a-kind experience.
They even have language options, so you can receive instructions in either English or Spanish!
Its basic website design makes the course extremely easy to operate and access. However, some might say that iDriveSafely’s look could use a bit of an upgrade. (I mean, after 20 years in business, it’s about time.)
If you can overlook the small flaws, the course offers exceptional informative content that is easy to understand, guaranteeing you to pass the final test.
Promising to match any course that's priced lower, GoToTrafficSchool is the cheapest course offered in New Mexico. But just because they’re cheap doesn’t mean they skimp on the quality of their content.
Their course gives you all the info you need to know in a neat video-based package that is super easy to do.
However, the course does lack some of the higher-end features offered by other online courses. Audio recordings that are useful, if you're looking to do the course on the go, aren't available in their standard package.
You'll also have to buy their unlimited retries as a separate add-on, which can raise the total cost.
But if you're looking for a simple basic course that provides everything you need for a cheap price, GoToTrafficSchool is more than enough.
Note: GoToTrafficSchool isn’t state-approved. You’ll have to ask special permission from your court handler if you want to take this course to dismiss a ticket.
Free certificate shipping. 100% money-back guarantee. 24/7 customer support. And a flaming hot course jam-packed with everything you need to know about New Mexico driving laws and regulations.
If this sounds like something you’re looking for, Safe2Drive is the school you’re looking for.
Their courses are short and straightforward. No beating around the bush — you go straight into the nitty-gritty!
Furthermore, if you feel like their services aren’t satisfying your requirements, you can ask for a refund. (Be sure to request it within 30 days of registration, though, otherwise, they won’t process your refund.)
While the course is state-approved and complies with New Mexico’s laws and regulations, don't expect any extra interactive features here.
They also don't have an effective mobile app, which does mean you'll be restricted to your laptop/computer with this course.
However, if you're not interested in doing the course out and about, Safe2Drive is still a good option for all your ticket dismissing needs.
Designed by the American Safety Council, Safe Motorist goes above and beyond to provide you with the most in-depth online course available in New Mexico.
Teaching you everything from evading driving techniques to basic tire pressure fundamentals, this course is a great option if you want an informative experience.
The course design isn't the best, however, as it is kind of dated.
They also don't offer any mobile apps to use on the go, so you’ll be bound to your laptop or computer the whole time.
But if you're looking for the most informative driving safety course out there, then Safe Motorist does deliver.
Just make sure to check with your court before picking this option as it's not technically approved in New Mexico, but can still meet the requirements if your court approves.
Driver Safety/Defensive Driving Course - FAQs New Mexico
Who Should Take a Driver Safety Course?
A driver safety/defensive driving course should be taken if:
- You're looking for cheaper insurance
- You're looking to dismiss a ticket/traffic points
- Need to comply with an employers requirement
- You've been ordered by a court to attend
- You’re looking to brush up on your driving skills
Note - Failure to attend a court-ordered course can result in license suspension.
A driver safety/traffic school course cannot dismiss serious offenses such as a DUI.
Should I Take An Online Course?
While some may benefit from an in-person course, the vast majority of drivers prefer online driver safety courses.
This is because an online course is much more convenient, as you can study according to your own schedule. Unlike in-person lectures with set schedules.
An online course can also be taken on the go, which is a great way to use whatever free time you have on your hands.
Finally, they’re much cheaper, with select courses costing less than $20!
How Long is the Course?
In New Mexico, the driver safety course takes a minimum of 6 hours due to state-mandated timers within all online courses.
Am I Eligible To Take a Driver Safety Course?
Apart from the obvious requirements such as a New Mexico license and court permission, you're only allowed to take this course once every 12 months.
Does a Driver Safety Course Lower My Insurance Costs?
Yes.
You can expect a 5-15% reduction in your total insurance costs.
However, be sure to check with your insurer beforehand to confirm whether they accept driver safety courses to lower insurance costs.
Also, if you're looking for cheaper insurance, Improv's course is your best bet as they're affiliated with GEICO and know what insurers look for in a driver safety/traffic school course.
Conclusion
If you're looking for the best and easiest options available in New Mexico, you can’t go wrong by choosing any of the schools I mentioned above.
Just be sure to contest your ticket within 15 days of our citation, otherwise, your court won’t accept your claim and you’ll have to pay the fine and bear with the points.
Good luck and safe driving!