Frequently Asked Questions
Is this program mandatory?
Yes, if a motorist is found to be responsible for 5 or more surchargeable events in a three-year period, the motorist is required, by law, to attend and pass the Massachusetts Driver Retraining Program. The three-year time frame is calculated from the conviction date.
What is a surchargeable event?
A surchargeable event is an "at fault" accident or motor vehicle violation which is susceptible to an insurance surcharge under the 1995 Safe Driver Insurance Plan (SDIP).
How long does the course take, what is it like, and what does it cost?
In cooperation with the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), National Safety Council (NSC) will present its course in either one eight-hour session or two four-hour sessions. See the Course Schedule page.
The program is aimed at changing behavior behind the wheel. Through this course, drivers learn why they continue to have driving related problems and how they can take responsibility for their actions. This course may provide you with the opportunity to keep your license while addressing your driving habits.
What if I feel I was not responsible for a violation or accident reported on my driver record?
The RMV will assign you a hearing date at which time you will have the opportunity to challenge the charges on your driver record. You will need to present documentation at your hearing that demonstrates you were found not guilty or not responsible for the charge(s) listed on your driver record.
How will I know if I am required to complete this course?
You are required by law to attend the Massachusetts Driver Retraining program if you do not attend your hearing, or if you attend your hearing and are found to be guilty or responsible as charged.
When must I register for and complete this course?
Because classes fill quickly, it is recommended that you register for the course within 30 days of the date of issue of the Notice of Suspension.
The course must be completed with the time frame set forth in your Notice of Suspension.
What will happen if I do not complete the course within the required time frame?
Your driver's license (or right to operate a motor vehicle) will be suspended until you satisfactorily complete the course and pay an additional reinstatement fee to the RMV. Completion of the program is required by Chapter 175, Section 113B of the Motor Vehicle and Traffic Laws of Massachusetts.
When and where will the course be taught?
National Safety Council has established classroom locations throughout Massachusetts. The eight-hour course will be taught in either two four-hour weeknight sessions or in a full one-day Saturday session.
Please note: If you miss the second session of a two-session class, you will be required to complete the entire eight-hours again -- no exceptions.
May I bring my children with me to class?
No. Only students with special needs may attend class with a family member or friend who is of legal driving age. No one will be admitted with children.
How will my registration be confirmed? What do I need to bring to class?
Regular mail: Within 24 hours of receipt of your regular mail registration and payment, National Safety Council will mail you a confirmation notice that you must bring with you to class. No one will be admitted into class without this notice.
Online: If you choose to register for the course online, you will be sent a confirming e-mail message once your credit card has been processed. This could take 1-3 business days. You should print the confirming e-mail and bring it to class with you --- NSC will not mail an additional confirmation notification.
In addition to your confirmation notice, you must bring a pen and some form of photo identification (driver's license, work ID, school ID, etc.).
What if I have special needs such as physical, language, etc.?
Drivers requiring special assistance are welcome to bring along a friend or family member to provide support during the class. Please notify National Safety Council of your intentions so we can plan for your comfort.
Please note: The support person must be of legal driving age.
How long does it take after the course completion for the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) to update my driver record?
Per the RMV, NSC must send your completion information via electronic transmittal. The RMV then updates your driver record. This process takes approximately three to four business days.
Please note: The RMV must receive your electronic completion by the date they intend to suspend your license. Please schedule your class accordingly.
What happens when there is a weather related cancellation?
In the event of a weather related cancellation, National Safety Council (NSC) will attempt to contact you at the daytime telephone number you provided on the registration form. Also, the facility holding the class will be notified and a sign will be posted. Colleges and/or businesses holding the Massachusetts Driver Retraining Program may announce cancellations on local radio stations. If you are unsure about a weather related cancellation, please contact the program services staff at (800) 215-1581 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. Monday through Friday.
NSC will work with the facility, instructor, and students to get the class rescheduled to a new date and time.
If you feel it is unsafe for you to travel to your scheduled class due to weather, please contact our office.
Please note: Neither the National Safety Council nor the Registry of Motor Vehicles is responsible for any driver's license that is suspended due to a weather related cancellation. We remind you again that our classes fill very quickly and it is suggested you register within 30 days of the date of issue of the Notice of Suspension.
Rules of Operation and Conduct Policy
A student may be dismissed or barred from the class for tardiness; intoxication; consumption of controlled substances on the premises; rudeness; vulgar or disruptive behavior; carrying firearms or smoking in the classroom; or for inattentiveness such as sleeping, reading materials not contained in the course of instruction, etc. during the class. Students dismissed for violating rules of conduct may be readmitted at the discretion of National Safety Council and the Registry of Motor Vehicles.
What is the National Safety Council and how can I contact them?
The National Safety Council is a not-for-profit, non-governmental, international public safety organization dedicated to protecting life and promoting health.
You can contact the National Safety Council's Driver Massachusetts Driver Retraining course staff as listed below:
National Safety Council
Attn: Massachusetts DRP Program
200 Salina Meadows Pkwy
Syracuse, NY 13212
(800) 215-1581 (Monday thru Friday, 8:30 am - 4:45 pm EST)
(315) 453-7932 (fax)
TTY line for the hearing impaired: (866) 268-0503
E-mail: mass_driver@nsc.org
June 23, 2009
Massachusetts Driver Retraining Home | Course Schedule page
