Drivers ticketed for minor traffic violations will be given a break when a new class starts in April.

People cited for minor violations can apply for the National Safety Council Defensive Driving Course, which will begin Monday, April 2. The four-hour class starts at 5 p.m. and costs $100, which includes a $25 application fee and a $75 training fee.

People ticketed in Clanton who successfully complete the program will have the ticket dropped, which will help drivers with their insurance and Alabama Department of Motor Vehicle record.

“You basically get a break,” said Clanton Sgt. Neil Fetner.

Only people cited for minor violations will be eligible for the program. Minor violations include speeding and running stop signs and red lights.

People with violations that require an appearance before the judge will not be able to enroll in the course These violations include driving with a suspended or revoked license, driving under the influence, leaving the scene of an accident, reckless driving and driving without proof of insurance.

Also, people can only apply for the class if they have no other traffic violations within the previous 36 months. That rule only applies to applicants from Clanton Municipal Court.

People from cases in Jemison, Maplesville, Thorsby and Chilton County District Courts may also attend drivers’ school. Judges in those courts will have discretion in what citations and lengths of time between them are eligible for drivers’ school.

Preregistration is required for the program. For more information, call CPD’s Office of Probation Services at (205) 755-1194.