Getting a traffic ticket is never fun — but it happens to almost everyone at some point. The real question is what you do after you get one. Many drivers figure it’s easier to just pay the fine and move on. But if you skip traffic school, you might be setting yourself up for bigger costs and headaches down the road.
Let’s break down what really happens if you just pay the ticket and skip traffic school.
In California, most moving violations add one point to your driving record. That may not sound like much, but here’s the catch: those points stay on your record for three years. And insurance companies definitely notice. When that point hits your record, your insurance provider can raise your rates — sometimes by hundreds of dollars per year. Over three years, that small ticket could cost you way more than the original fine.
Insurance companies view a traffic violation as a sign of “increased risk.” Even one ticket can cause a noticeable bump in your premium. Multiple tickets? That’s when rates can skyrocket. When you complete traffic school, though, your insurance company never sees the violation. It’s kept confidential — meaning your rates stay the same. Think of it as a protective shield for your driving record.
For some jobs, especially ones that require driving (delivery, rideshare, or commercial vehicles), employers check your driving record. Having points can make you less competitive or even disqualify you. Attending traffic school keeps your record clean and professional.
Here’s a common misconception: traffic school doesn’t erase the fine. You’ll still need to pay it — but traffic school keeps the violation from adding a point to your record. In other words, you’re protecting your long-term costs, not avoiding short-term ones. Think of it as investing in your record.
With licensed online schools like Finish Today Traffic School, you can complete the course on your own time, even in one sitting. No classrooms, no commutes — just log in, learn, and submit your completion electronically to the court. It’s that simple.
Traffic school isn’t just about checking a box. It’s designed to make you a more aware, safer driver — which helps everyone on the road. Many drivers finish the course surprised by how much they’ve learned (and how much they didn’t know).
Paying your ticket may feel like the quick fix, but it’s often the costliest choice. Taking traffic school keeps your record clean, protects your insurance rates, and helps you stay a safer driver.
So next time you get a ticket, don’t just pay and forget it — Finish Today Traffic School can help you protect your record and your wallet.
Referred to this by a friend - thanks for the funny, random comments inserted in between the text. and for the colloquial tone. easy to follow along as opposed to dry stats and figures.
- Julie S
