Delaware has long taken road safety seriously and one traffic law that all drivers should pay attention to is the state’s approach to aggressive driving and required behavior modification programs. Under current Delaware law, if a driver commits three or more moving violations in a continuous act—such as speeding, failing to yield, running a red light, unsafe lane changes, or tailgating—they can be formally charged with an aggressive driving offense. The goal is to not only penalize risky behavior but also to reduce repeat traffic violations by promoting safer habits behind the wheel.
One important consequence of an aggressive driving conviction in Delaware is the requirement to complete a DMV-approved behavior modification or aggressive driving course. This course functions much like traditional defensive driving or defensive refresher programs you may already be familiar with, but it’s specifically designed to address unsafe driving habits and help change them for good. Typically at least 8 hours long, these courses focus on understanding what aggressive driving is, how emotions and stress can influence risky decisions on the road, and how to adopt safe, courteous driving techniques.
If you are a licensed driver who has been ticketed and convicted of aggressive driving, the requirement to complete this program isn’t optional. It is court ordered and DMV-approved, and you are usually given a set period (often around 90 days) to finish it. If you fail to complete the behavior modification program in time, your driver’s license can be suspended in Delaware.
The upside for many drivers is that even if you are not facing an aggressive driving charge, defensive driving and defensive refresher courses remain valuable tools for staying safe and managing your driving record in Delaware. Taking a defensive driving program can help you improve your driving habits, potentially earn a discount on auto insurance for a period of time, and strengthen your understanding of traffic laws. These courses are often available online or in person and give you flexibility for when and how you complete them.
For those who want to be proactive about handling minor traffic violations, learning better driving practices, or satisfying court or DMV requirements after a traffic violation, enrolling in an approved candidate course can make a big difference. Whether you are interested in building safer habits or you’ve been ordered to take an aggressive driving course, Delaware’s defensive driving and behavior modification programs are structured to help drivers stay compliant and promote safer roads for everyone. Remember that drivers can stay informed and compliant with GoToTrafficSchool.com.