Maryland Driver Improvement Program (DIP): Who Needs It and How to Complete It
Received a notice requiring a Maryland Driver Improvement Program (DIP)? Start by reading the instructions and completion deadline on your notice. 4Life Driving School offers an MVA-approved DIP with an in-person final exam at our Bethesda office.
Who Needs Maryland’s Driver Improvement Program?
Drivers may be assigned to DIP after accumulating 5–7 points on their driving record, receiving a referral from a District Court judge or an Administrative Law Judge, or being convicted of or granted probation before judgment for a moving violation while holding a provisional driver’s license. Not everyone is required to take DIP; eligible drivers may also enroll voluntarily. Before registering, contact 4Life Driving School so we can help you confirm with the Maryland MVA whether you are required to complete the program. We offer the regular Driver Improvement Program for adults age 18 and older, not the Young Driver Improvement Program. Please contact us before registering to make sure our course meets the requirements on your notice.
Online or In-Person: How Does It Work?
At 4Life Driving School, the self-paced online DIP course costs $65, and the instructor-led in-person course costs $100. The in-person course is offered subject to availability. Both options require an in-person final exam at our Bethesda office. Completing the online lessons alone does not complete the program. Contact us before registering if you need help choosing an option or arranging your exam.
What Should You Bring to Your Exam?
Bring a valid, unexpired photo ID and all letters or notices you received from the court or Maryland MVA concerning your DIP requirement when you come for your final exam. Make sure the information you provide matches your records. If your MVA assignment letter is missing, contact the MVA Driver Improvement Unit at 410-787-7817 for assistance.
Final Exam and Retest
The final exam contains 20 multiple-choice questions. You must score at least 80% to pass. If you do not pass, you must wait 24 hours before retaking the exam. A $10 retest fee applies.
What Happens After You Complete DIP?
After successful completion, your program completion is reported electronically to the MVA. Keep your completion certificate for your records. If you receive an assignment letter after you have already completed DIP, contact the MVA Driver Improvement Unit with your proof of completion.
Does DIP Remove Points?
No. Completing the Maryland Driver Improvement Program does not remove points from your driving record. The course helps improve driving habits and meets the program requirement when you have been assigned to attend.
Plan Ahead for Your Deadline
Allow time to complete the course and attend the required exam before the deadline on your notice. Contact the school early to check availability, especially if your deadline is approaching. Missing the completion deadline on your MVA referral letter can lead to suspension of your driving privilege. If you miss the deadline or your license is already suspended, contact the MVA for instructions and confirmation of your driving status.
Driver Improvement Program in Bethesda, Maryland
Our office is at 4405 East West Highway, Suite 101, Bethesda, MD 20814. We serve drivers from Bethesda, North Bethesda, Rockville, Potomac, and nearby communities.
Call 667-454-3337 or email info@4lifedrivingschool.com with questions about course options and exam appointments.