Driving Safety Course (DSC)
The Code of Criminal Procedure, Art 45.051(q) states -- You may be
able to require that this charge be dismissed by successfully completing
a driving safety course or a motorcycle operator training course. You
will lose that right if before your appearance date you do not provide
the Court with notice of your request to take the course.
- If
you are charged with a traffic offense, you may be eligible to request
the Driving Safety Course option on or before your initial appearance
date.
- If
you were operating a motorcycle and are approved to take a Driving
Safety course, you will be required to take a Motorcycle Operator
Training Course.
- If
you were charged with Seat Belt Violation - No Child Safety Seat 8
years and younger and are approved to take a Driving Safety Course, you
will be required to take a Specialized Driving Safety "Seat Belt"
Course.
PLEASE NOTE: YOU MUST REQUEST THE DRIVING SAFETY COURSE OPTION PRIOR TO TAKING THE COURSE.
Eligibility:
- You
must have and present a valid, non-commercial Texas driver's license or
permit; or be a member, or the spouse or dependent child of a member,
of the United States military forces serving on active duty. Commercial Driver's license holders are NOT eligible to take a driver's safety course.
- You must enter a plea of guilty or nolo contendere (no contest).
- You must have been charged with an eligible offense as defined by Texas Transportation Code 45.0511.
- You
must not have completed a Driving Safety Course or Motorcycle Operator
Training Course within the 12 months preceding the date of the offense.
- You must provide evidence of financial responsibility (current vehicle liability insurance) at the time of the request.
- You must pay the court costs and administrative fee of $144.00.
Requirements for Dismissal:
- You
must submit a court copy of a Driving Safety Course completion
certificate from a course provider certified by the Texas Department of
Licensing and Regulation. The certificate must be signed, must have
East Bernard Municipal Court listed at the court, and must be submitted to the
court on or before the 90th day indicated on your Driving Safety Course
order.
- You
must submit a certified (Type 3A) copy of your driving record from the
Texas Department of Public Safety. Your driving record must be submitted
to the court on or before the 90th day indicated on your Driving Safety
Course order.
Ineligible offenses:
- Speeding 25 mph over the limit or more.
- Speeding 95 mph or more.
- Failure to Give Information at Accident Scene.
- Leaving the Scene of an Accident.
- Passing a School Bus Loading or Unloading.
- Any offense committed in a construction zone with workers present.