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FAQ-TSS (Traffic Survival School)

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What is Traffic Survival School (TSS)?

Traffic Survival School is an 8-hour mandatory class required by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), Motor Vehicle Division (MVD), and/or the court. If you've been ordered to attend TSS, you must complete this class in addition to paying any fines associated with your traffic violation.

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What is the difference between Defensive Driving Course (DDC) and Traffic Survival School (TSS)?

Defensive Driving Course (DDC):

  • 4-hour voluntary class for minor civil traffic violations

  • Available online or in-person

  • Dismisses your ticket—no fine required if eligible

  • Removes points from your driving record

  • Can only be taken once every 12 months

Traffic Survival School (TSS):

  • 8-hour mandatory class for major traffic violations

  • In-person only

  • Required in addition to paying your ticket fine

  • Does NOT remove points from your license

  • Required if you've already used DDC within the past 24 months

 

Who must attend Traffic Survival School (TSS)?

TSS is required for the following violations:

  • Aggressive driving

  • DUI – Any driving under the influence violations

  • Running a red light (convicted)

  • Graduated Driver's License violations

  • CDL violations requiring TSS

  • Point accumulation – 8 to 12 points on your license within 12 months

  • Serious accidents – Accidents resulting in death or serious injury

  • Out-of-state violations – If another state requires you to complete TSS

  • Court order – If a judge has ordered you to attend Traffic Survival School (not Defensive Driving)

 

I already paid my ticket. Why do I need to attend TSS?

Paying your fine does not satisfy the TSS requirement. Arizona law mandates that you complete the 8-hour Traffic Survival School class in addition to paying your ticket. Failure to complete TSS can result in license suspension.

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If I only have 1 ticket for running a red light, why do I have to attend TSS?

Since 2001, Arizona law requires drivers convicted of running a red light or failing to stop at a stop sign to complete Traffic Survival School and pay all associated fines. If you are not eligible for Defensive Driving (or have already used it within the past 24 months), you must complete TSS.

 

How will this class help reinstate my driver's license?

Upon completing TSS, you will receive a certificate of completion. We will report your completion directly to ADOT/MVD. You can verify your completion status at AZMVDNow.gov.

To reinstate your license, visit any MVD location. You may need to pay a reinstatement fee and meet other requirements depending on your violation.

 

How do I register for this class?

Three easy ways to register:

  1. Online: Visit almostgotawaywithit.com and select your preferred class date

  2. Phone: Call us and we'll help you register and answer any questions

  3. Walk-in: Arrive at least 30 minutes before class starts (if space is available; a $10 walk-in fee applies)

Registered students receive priority seating. Class size is limited to 10 students per MVD regulations.

 

What do I need to bring to class?

Required:

  • Valid photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport)

  • Payment (if not paid in advance)

Optional:

  • Your Corrective Action letter, Proof of Assignment, or court order (helpful but not required)

  • Lunch or snacks (we have a 30-minute lunch break; nearby restaurants available)

Note: We can look up your information in the system, so you don't need to bring your MVD letter or court order to attend class.

 

What if I don't have my Corrective Action letter or court order?

No problem! You don't need to bring these documents to class. We can look up your information in the system using your driver's license. Just bring your valid photo ID and payment.

 

How much does TSS cost? (Effective January 2026)

Flat rate pricing:

  • $155.00 – Cash or money order

  • $160.00 – Credit or debit card

All prices include the TSS State Fee of $49.17

Walk-in fee: Add $10 if registering on the day of class without prior registration

No discounts or pre-pay options available starting January 2026.

 

Payment Policy

Payment methods accepted:

  • Cash

  • Money order

  • Credit/debit card (add $5 processing fee)

We do NOT accept personal checks.

 

What happens if I need to cancel or miss my class?

We understand that life happens!

If you've prepaid for your TSS class, you have two flexible options:

  1. Reschedule – Move your registration to any available class date at no charge

  2. Full refund – Contact us and we'll process a complete refund

Important: No refunds are available after your certificate has been printed.

No penalties. No hassle. Just let us know before completion.

 

Class Schedule and Location

Location: Tempe, Arizona

TSS Class Schedule:

  • Every other weekend: Saturday & Sunday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  • Fridays: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  • Split weekday classes (bi-weekly):

    • Monday & Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

    • Wednesday & Thursday: 10:00 AM – 2:15 PM OR 5:00 PM – 9:15 PM

Maximum class size: 10 students (limited by MVD regulations)

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FAQ-DDC (Defensive Driving Course)

Am I eligible for Defensive Driving School?

To be eligible for the Defensive Driving diversion program, all of the following must apply:

  • At least 12 months have passed since your last violation that was dismissed through Defensive Driving (violation date to violation date)

  • The violation is a civil moving violation (not criminal)

  • Your violation is on the state-approved list of eligible violations

Not all citations qualify. View the complete list of eligible violations at AZCourts.gov/drive/Eligible-Violations or contact us to confirm your eligibility.

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What violations are NOT eligible for Defensive Driving?

The following violations cannot be dismissed through Defensive Driving:

  • DUI (Driving Under the Influence)

  • No insurance

  • Registration violations

  • Seatbelt violations

  • Equipment-related infractions

  • Criminal traffic violations

For a complete list of eligible violations, visit AZCourts.gov/drive/Eligible-Violations or contact us.

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Is Defensive Driving School the same as Traffic Survival School (TSS)?

No. These are two completely different classes:

Defensive Driving Course (DDC):

  • 4.5-hour class to dismiss a traffic ticket

  • Voluntary (if eligible)

  • Available online or in-person

  • Dismisses your ticket—no fine required

  • Removes points from your record

Traffic Survival School (TSS):

  • 8-hour mandatory class for serious violations

  • Ordered by MVD or the court

  • In-person only

  • Required in addition to paying your fine

  • Does NOT remove points

If you were ordered to complete TSS, you must register for the correct class. Taking DDC will not satisfy a TSS requirement.

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How much does the Defensive Driving Course cost?

Your total cost depends on the court listed on your citation. The full price includes:

  • School Fee: $45

  • State Fee: $24

  • State Surcharge: $45

  • Court Fee: Varies by jurisdiction

We'll provide you with a full cost breakdown during registration based on your specific court.

For detailed cost information by court, visit: AZCourts.gov/drive/Cost-to-Attend-School

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Do I still have to pay a fine?

No. If you're eligible for the Defensive Driving diversion program, taking the course will satisfy the violation, and you will not need to pay an additional fine for that ticket.

Important: Only one violation per citation can be dismissed through this program.

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How often can I take Defensive Driving School?

You can take Defensive Driving once every 12 months, measured from the date of your last eligible violation (not the date you took the class).

Example: If your last eligible ticket was on March 1, 2024, you'd be eligible again on or after March 1, 2025.

How long is the class?

The Defensive Driving Course is approximately 4.5 to 5 hours, including breaks, as required by the Arizona Supreme Court.

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Do you offer an online course?

Yes! We offer an online Defensive Driving Course that you can complete at your own pace from home or on the go.

Online course features:

  • Self-paced learning

  • Interactive content with pictures and videos

  • 5-question quiz at the end of each chapter

  • Timed pages (no skipping ahead)

  • 4-hour minimum completion time

  • Automatic certificate and email confirmation upon completion

You'll need: A phone, tablet, or computer with internet access.

 

How do I register for this class?

Two easy ways to register:

  1. Online: Visit almostgotawaywithit.com and select online or in-person class

  2. Phone: Call us and we'll help you register and answer any questions

For in-person classes:

  • Class size is limited to 10 students

  • Register early to secure your spot

 

What do I need to register?

To register, you'll need:

  • A copy of your driver's license

  • Your citation or ticket

  • Any court paperwork or extensions, if applicable

 

What should I bring to class? (In-Person)

Required:

  • Valid photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport)

  • A copy of your citation

  • Your payment (if not paid online in advance)

  • Any extension documentation from the court

Optional:

  • Snacks or drinks (breaks provided)

 

How do I pay for the class?

Payment options:

Online in advance:

  • Credit or debit card (recommended)

  • Secure payment through our website

In-person on the day of class:

  • Cash

  • Money order

We do NOT accept personal checks.

Processing fee: A $5 processing fee applies to credit card payments.

 

What should I do if I need an extension?

Contact the court listed on your ticket to request an extension. Some courts may grant additional time if you're registered with an approved Defensive Driving school.

If you receive an extension, bring the documentation to class or upload it when registering online.

 

Do I have to report my class completion to the court?

No. Once you complete the course, we will report your completion to the court on your behalf—unless the court has specifically instructed you to submit the certificate yourself.

For online students: You'll receive an automatic certificate and email confirmation upon completion.

Verification: You can verify your completion by contacting the court listed on your citation.

 

What happens after I complete the class?

We handle the reporting:

  • Your completion is entered into the Arizona State Defensive Driving Portal

  • We submit all required information to the court

  • Individual checks are mailed to courts as required

  • You receive a certificate of completion

Your responsibility:

  • Verify completion with your court if needed

  • Keep your certificate for your records

Important: Your ticket will be dismissed, and no points will be added to your driving record.

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What if I have technical issues with the online course?

We're here to help! Contact us if you experience any technical difficulties, have questions about court payments, or need assistance with your online class. We provide full support throughout your course.

 

Class Schedule and Location

In-Person Classes - Tempe, Arizona

DDC Class Schedule (opposite weeks from TSS):

  • Wednesday & Thursday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

  • Saturday: 9:30 AM – 1:45 PM & 2:00 PM – 6:15 PM

  • Sunday: 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM

Online Classes:

  • Available 24/7—start anytime, complete at your own pace

Visit our website or call for the most current schedule.

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Why should I choose Almost Got Away With It?

✓ Transparent pricing – No hidden fees✓ Fast, professional court reporting – We handle everything✓ Veteran-owned and operated – Supporting those who served✓ Personalized support – Small classes, one-on-one attention✓ Flexible options – In-person and online classes available✓ Convenient Tempe location – Clean facilities, free parking✓ Approved by Arizona Supreme Courts and ADOT

By taking our course, you'll avoid points on your record and protect your insurance rates.

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