Driving Programs

SUNY Erie, in collaboration with AAA, offers a Driver and Traffic Safety Education (DTSE) course, also known as “Driver Ed,” which is approved by the New York State Education Department (NYSED). Upon successful completion, students will receive the MV-285, the official Driver Education Completion Certificate issued by NYSED. The course consists of sixteen in-person sessions, each lasting 3 hours. Each class is split into two parts: one half focuses on in-person lectures, while the other half involves in-car driving or observation, all supervised by a certified instructor.

The benefits of completing this course include:

• An official Driver Ed Completion Certificate (MV-285)
• Eligibility for a road test for NYS Junior Permit holders
• Potential for reduced auto insurance rates (subject to the insurance provider)
• The ability for 17-year-olds to receive a senior license, allowing driving after 9 PM
• A one-year AAA basic membership for all students who successfully finish the program

For more details and to view the upcoming schedule, please visit the Course Catalog link above.

SUNY Erie is not offering NYS Impaired Driver Program classes at this time. Please check with the DMV if you have any questions

Western New York courts may refer traffic violators to this three-hour course designed to enhance driving knowledge and safety, with the goal of preventing future traffic violations. Successfully completing the course can lead to a reduction of a moving violation to a non-moving violation or a reduction in traffic fine at the Judge’s discretion. The course covers defensive driving techniques and provides up-to-date information on New York State laws regarding distracted driving, texting, cell phone use, drowsy driving, seat belts, child restraints, and driving under the influence. This course is offered in-person or virtually.

Note: Drivers must complete the course at least 7 days before their “return to court” or “pay fine” date. During registration, drivers will need to provide their date of birth, court name, Judge’s name, and the date of their court appearance or fine payment deadline.

Western New York courts may refer traffic violators to this twelve-hour course designed to enhance driving knowledge and safety, with the goal of preventing future traffic violations. Successfully completing the course can lead to a reduction of a moving violation to a non-moving violation or a reduction in traffic fine at the Judge’s discretion.  The course includes a self-assessment, an evaluation of personal driving risks, and an in-depth look at the consequences of individual choices on the road. It covers defensive driving techniques and provides up-to-date information on New York State laws related to distracted driving, texting, cell phone use, drowsy driving, seat belts, child restraints, and driving under the influence.

Participants will also gain insight into how their lifestyle choices, such as drug and alcohol use, can affect traffic safety. Additionally, the course addresses change management strategies, helps participants develop a personalized action plan, and teaches preventive measures to avoid future traffic violations. This course is offered in-person at our North and South campuses.

Note: Drivers must complete the course at least 7 days before their “return to court” or “pay fine” date. During registration, drivers will need to provide their date of birth, court name, Judge’s name, and the date of their court appearance or fine payment deadline.