(Not as a punishment; but as a gift)

Sometimes a person’s probation terms include doing a Missouri Driver Improvement Program (DIP) course. But this post suggests a “twist” — you might consider asking for the opportunity to do DIP!?!

The reason: Under Missouri Revised Statute § 302.302, the Director of Revenue provides a system to “stay” (prevent) the assessment of points against your license if you successfully complete an approved and low cost course.

And you do not need a lawyer to get this for you! As noted below, you just need to ask the Judge (and the Judge needs to approve you doing so). The post provides everything you need to know about navigating the process (with or without a lawyer).

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Benefits of the Program

The primary benefit of completing a DIP course is point removal. While the program will not remove the ticket itself from your permanent driving record, it prevents the associated 2 to 4 points from being added to your license. This is crucial because a high accumulation of points can lead to the suspension or revocation of your driving privileges.

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Key Restrictions & Eligibility

Not every ticket or every driver is eligible for point removal through DIP.

• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): You cannot participate in DIP if you possess a CDL or if the violation occurred in a commercial motor vehicle.
• Frequency: You can only use DIP to avoid points once every 36 months.
• Timeframe: You must complete the approved course within 60 days of your conviction date.
• Residency: The program does not apply to out-of-state drivers receiving a Missouri ticket, nor to Missouri drivers receiving tickets in other states.

DIP Eligible Violations: Points can generally only be stayed for violations involving basic moving violations; speeding, or careless/imprudent driving as defined § 302.302.1 (1), (2), & (4). Here is chart show what is eligible and not.

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The Process: Step-by-Step

Following the correct order is vital to ensure your points are actually removed.

1. Appear in Court: Either have you or your attorney must appear in court for your violation and request the judge’s permission to attend an approved DIP course.
   • Although permission is granted on a case-by-case basis, I can imagine no reason why a judge would not give a person permission:
     • judges want drivers to learn things and drive better.
     • no judge wants someone to lose their license because of points if the drive takes the initiative to ask and do the DIP course.
2. Wait for Plea/Conviction to enroll: You must have a formal plea/conviction date before you can enroll in a class.
3. Choose an Approved Course: Select a provider from the official state-approved list.
   • NOTE: If your violation was on a motorcycle, you must take an approved Motorcycle Rider Training Course instead.
4. Complete Training: Finish the course (online or in-person) within 60 days of your plea/conviction.
5. Submit Documentation: Upon completion, you will receive MO Form 4444. You or your attorney must take the MO Form 4444 to the Court Clerk for a signature and ensure it is mailed to the Department of Revenue (DOR) within 15 days of course completion.

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Low Cost and Available Online

The cost of the program varies depending on the provider you choose. Based on current approved online list of providers, prices generally range from:

• Low End: $7.95 to $9.99
• Mid Range: $10.00 to $19.95
• High End: $24.95 to $29.99

Again, the list of providers can be found towards the bottom of this page: Driver Improvement Program – Missouri Safety Center

Note: Some providers may charge additional fees for certificate processing or expedited mailing.

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Need More Information?

For specific questions regarding the program:

• Website: Driver Improvement Program – Missouri Safety Center
• Senior Program Manager at the Missouri Safety Center
  • Phone: (660) 543-4081
  • Email: msc@ucmo.edu