Driver Improvement School after Reckless Driving

If the driver enters a plea or is convicted of “reckless driving,” then the Florida DHSMV will automatically send the driver to driving school.

If the driver fails to complete the course within 90 days after receiving notice from the Florida DHSMV, the driver’s license SHALL BE CANCELED by the DHSMV until the course is completed. See F.S. 322.0261(4).

The DHSMV-imposed requirement to complete driver improvement school also applies to convictions of the following infractions or offenses:

  • 316.074(1) Fail to Obey Traffic Control Device
  • 316.075(1)(c)1. Red Light Violation
  • 316.172 School Bus – Improper Stop
  • 316.191 Racing on the Highway

The attorneys at the Sammis Law Firm are experienced in fighting reckless driving charges. Reckless driving is often difficult for the prosecutor to prove at trial. These issues can also arise when the DUI case is reduced to reckless driving as part of the plea bargaining process.

Don’t be surprised by the consequences of a conviction. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case today.

Call 813-250-0500.


Florida Statute Section 322.0261(3)

Florida Statute Section 322.0261(3) provides:

With respect to an operator convicted of, or who pleaded nolo contendere to, a traffic offense giving rise to a crash identified in paragraph (1)(c), the department shall require that the operator, in addition to other applicable penalties, attend a department-approved driver improvement course in order to maintain his or her driving privileges.
The course must include behind-the-wheel instruction and an assessment of the operator’s ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.
Successful completion of a behind-the-wheel examination is required in order to receive completion credit for the course.
If the operator fails to complete the course within 90 days after receiving notice from the department, the operator’s driver license shall be canceled by the department until the course is successfully completed.
 

Reckless Driving after a DUI Arrest

In many cases, a person will plea to Reckless Driving after a drunk driving or DUI charge is reduced. The person entering the plea to reckless driving should know, before the plea, that driver improvement school is required.

Since the requirement is not court-ordered, the court rarely mentions this fact when imposing the sentence.

If you want to talk with an attorney about your case, please call our office at (813) 250-0500.


This article was last updated on Friday, May 26, 2023.