So You Got a Ticket in La La Land? How to Do Traffic School (and Not Lose Your Cool)
Let's face it, nobody enjoys getting a ticket in the City of Angels. Unless, of course, you accidentally stumbled onto a secret Hollywood film shoot and got a ticket for being too darn good-looking (hey, it could happen!). But fear not, fellow motorist, because there's a way to (maybe) avoid that pesky point on your license and the inevitable lecture from your grandma about safe driving. Yes, we're talking about traffic school.
Signing Up for Traffic School: The Not-So-Thrilling Ride (But It Gets You There)
Okay, traffic school might not be quite as exciting as a Ferrari chase through the Mulholland Drive canyons. But hey, at least you'll be learning valuable skills like how to avoid chases in the first place (defensive driving 101, people!). Here's the lowdown on how to sign up for this educational adventure:
1. Check Your Ticket (Don't Just Cry About It)
Before you dream up elaborate revenge fantasies against that overzealous parking meter officer, take a deep breath and review your ticket. Is there a section that mentions traffic school? Bold letters are your friend here. If it says "eligible" and you weren't caught drag racing on Sunset Boulevard, then you're in!
2. The Court is Now in Session (Well, Sort Of)
There are a few ways to request traffic school:
- Online: Dust off your keyboard and head to the Los Angeles Superior Court website. Just search for "traffic school" and follow the instructions. Think of it as your own personal online legal drama (minus the courtroom shenanigans).
- By Phone: Feeling chatty? Dial the court and speak to a clerk. Just be prepared for some hold music – it might be your chance to write the next great Hollywood soundtrack!
- In Person: Fancy a field trip? Head down to the courthouse and chat with someone in person. Who knows, you might even get mistaken for a celebrity (hey, it happens!).
3. Don't Forget the Benjamins (or Jessicas, or Alexanders)
There will likely be a fee for attending traffic school. Consider it an investment in your driving future (and a potential discount on your car insurance). Remember: You gotta pay the court fees too, not the nice folks at traffic school.
4. Choose Your Traffic School wisely, Grasshopper
The California DMV has a list of approved schools [search for "California DMV approved traffic schools"]. Pick one that suits your fancy – online, in-person, weekend intensive (perfect for those who crave a traffic school marathon!). Just avoid the one with the creepy clown mascot – trust your gut on this one.
5. The Finish Line is in Sight (Cue Dramatic Music)
Once you've completed traffic school (and hopefully learned a thing or two about the rules of the road), the school will send your completion certificate to the court. This is important! Make sure they get it by the deadline or your point will appear on your record faster than you can say "Hollywood hit and run."
Traffic School: Not So Bad After All
So there you have it! Traffic school might not be a walk on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but it can save you a headache (and maybe a point on your license). Just remember, a little defensive driving knowledge can go a long way in this car-crazy city. Now go forth and conquer those roads, responsibly of course!
