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FAQ-TSS (Traffic Survival School)

 

What is “Traffic Survival School” (TSS)?

Traffic Survival School is mandatory by the Department of Transportation (ADOT), Department of Motor Vehicles (MVD) and/or by the Court. You must attend this class and pay the fines for the traffic violation received.

 

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

Defensive Driving School (DDS) is a voluntary driving course of 4 hours and it is designed for individuals that have received a citation for a minor traffic violations citation. DDS can be taken online or in-person. Students only pay for the cost of the class. If you are eligible for this class, upon completion, the points associated with the traffic violation will be eliminated. Your violation must be on the state list of eligible violations. Visit AZCourts.gov for more information.

Traffic Survival School Class (TSS) is an 8-hour mandatory class. It is designed for persons that received a major traffic violation citation. To attend, you will need to pay the cost of the ticket and the cost of the class. The points on your license will not be eliminated upon completion of the class. If you have attended a defensive driving course within the last 2 years and are not eligible for another class you must complete a Traffic Survival Course (TSS).

 

Who must attend Traffic Survival School “Traffic Survival School” (TSS)?

The TSS class is required for the following traffic violations:

  • Aggressive driving.   

  • DUI – Any violations for driving under the influence.   

  • If you were convicted of passing a red light. 

  • Graduated drivers license

  • CDL  

  • If you accumulated 8 to 12 points on your license in a period of 12 months.   

  • If you were involved in an accident that resulted in death or serious injury. 

  • If you received s citation outside the state and that state requires you to take a TSS class.     

  • If a Judge has given you an order to attend a Traffic Survival (TSS) course. (Not a Defensive Driving course).

 

I already paid my ticket, why do I need to attend TSS class?

 

Traffic Survival School is mandatory by the Department of Transportation (ADOT), Department of Motor Vehicles (MVD) and/or by the Court. You must attend this class and pay the fines for the traffic violation received.

 

If I only have 1 ticket for passing a red light, why do I have to attend a Traffic Survival School (TSS)?

It is an Arizona law requirement since 2001, that each driver that receives a traffic citation of this kind or does not stop at a 4 way stop intersection. Upon approaching a stop sign. Must attend a Traffic Survival Class and pay the fines related to the citation. If you do not show up or you are not eligible for the Defensive Driving Class you must complete the Traffic Survival School Class (TSS).

 

 

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

Upon course completion, you will receive a certificate that you can take to any Department of Motor Vehicles (MVD) locations. There you will ask them to reinstate your license. Keep in consideration that you must meet additional requirements such as a paying a reinstatement fee. 

 

How do I register for this class?

You can register on our website or give us a call, we will be happy to help you and answer any other questions you may have. We also take "WALK-INS" on the day of the class if space is available. Registered students will be given priority. We just ask that you arrive at least 30 minutes early so we can register you.

(A $10 fee will be added for walk-ins)

 

What do I need to bring to class?

  • You must present the letter of “Corrective Action” or “Proof of Assignment” from the Division of Motor Vehicles (MVD) or the order from the court indicating that you must complete a “Traffic Survival School (TSS)”. If you do not have your letter or case number you will not be able to register for the class.

  • If you do not have your letter please contact MVD or the court to request a duplicate of your order or letter or obtain your case number so that you can register for the TSS class.

  • We can print a duplicate of your order/letter for a 5 dollar fee.

  • MVR (Is your driving record) it is not the same and it will not be accepted in place of the Corrective Action or Proof of Assignment

  • If you went to court and the Judge ordered you should complete a Traffic Survival Class (It is not a Defensive Driving Course) bring you Court Order.

  • Bring your picture identification.

  • Class registration payment if you didn't prepay online

  • We will have a 30-minute lunch. You may bring your own lunch or visit one of the nearby restaurants.

 

What is a “Corrective Action” or “Proof of Assignment" letter?

 

 

What if I lost my letter?

We can obtain a duplicate of your letter from the Department of Motor Vehicles (MVD). You will pay a fee of 5 dollars. If you don’t have that letter you will not be allowed in the class. Please make sure you bring your letter.

 

 

Do I have to pay now?

  • You have the option to pre-pay for a discounted rate up to 24 hours before the day of the class to reserve your seat or you can register at no cost and pay full price day of class. 

  • Pre-pay for split classes must be done on line at least 24 hours before class. 

  • When paying in person by credit or debit, the cost of the class is 158.50. (You must contact the school and verify registration and discount 24 hours before class. Please bring your receipt to class)

  • A full refund (100%) will be honored if canceling at least 48 hours before class. 50% refund if canceled 24 hours before class. 25% refund if canceled on the day of class. 0% refund after the start of class. (pre-paid only) 

  • A full refund (100%) if the class is canceled by the school + additional 10 dollars off if you reschedule. (pre-paid only)

  • Rescheduling is an option in place of a refund as long as rescheduling happens 24 hours before the start of class. 

  • WALK-INS are accepted if space is available. (A $10 dollar fee will be charged for all unregistered WALK-INS). 

  • No personal checks will be accepted.

  • Class space is limited per MVD. Reserve your space as soon as possible, register today.

  • All Prices include TSS State Fee of $49.17

Discounts

  • Veteran Discount = $15 (Any proof of service is ok)

  • Early Brid Discount  = $5 off Split Day/4 hr. Class During the Week. $5 off Full Day/ 8hr Weekends.  *(Prepayment only)

  • T.G.I.F = (Save up to $10 for attending class of Fridays. *(Prepayment only) 

 

 

All discounts require prepayment at least 24 hours prior to start of class. Please contact the school directly and ask for the Discount Link to be sent to you directly via text or email  Be prepared to show proof of purchase and proof of discount at class.

 

 

 

FAQ-DDC (Defensive Driving Course)

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.

How much does the Defensive Driving Course cost?

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

  • School Fee: $45

  • State Fee: $24

  • State Surcharge: $45

  • Court Fee: Varies by jurisdiction

We’ll provide you with a full breakdown during registration.

Do you offer an online course?

Yes! We offer an online Defensive Driving Course that can be completed at your own pace—available in English and Spanish.

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. However, only one violation per citation can be dismissed through this program.

Am I eligible for Defensive Driving School?

To be eligible, all of the following must apply:

  • At least 12 months have passed since the last violation you dismissed by taking a Defensive Driving class (violation date to violation date)

  • The violation is a civil moving violation

  • You have not attended a Defensive Driving course for a violation in the past 12 months

Not all citations qualify. Contact us or use the eligibility checker on our website to confirm.

How do I pay for the class?

You can pay:

  • Online in advance via credit/debit card (recommended)

  • In person on the day of class using a money order or cash

⚠️ We do not accept personal checks. A $5 processing fee applies to credit card payments.

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.

How often can I take Defensive Driving School?

Once every 12 months from the date of your last eligible violation. (Example: if your last eligible ticket was on 3/1/2024, you’d be eligible again on or after 3/1/2025.)

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

No.

  • Defensive Driving is a 4.5-hour class to dismiss a traffic ticket.

  • Traffic Survival School is an 8-hour class ordered by the MVD (or sometimes by a court) for more serious violations.

If you were ordered to complete TSS, be sure to register for the correct class.

What do I need 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?

  • A valid photo ID

  • A copy of your citation

  • Your payment (if not paid online)

  • Any extension documentation

What should I do if I need an extension?

Contact the court listed on your ticket to request an extension. Some courts may allow extra time if you're registered with a school.

Why are some violations not eligible for DDC?

Only civil moving violations are eligible. The following are not eligible:

  • DUI

  • No insurance

  • Registration violations

  • Seatbelt or equipment-related infractions

Contact us or check the Arizona Defensive Driving eligibility list for details.

Why should I choose Almost Got Away With It?

We offer:

  • Transparent pricing—no hidden fees

  • Fast, professional court reporting

  • Veteran-owned and operated with personalized support

  • Flexible in-person and online class options

  • Convenient location in Tempe, AZ

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

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