How many times can a student take the Defensive Driving course within a year?

Answer: C — Once

A student can only take the Defensive Driving course once within a year. This answer is based on the general rule that most states allow a driver to take defensive driving once within a year for ticket dismissal or point reduction purposes. Options A and B are incorrect because they exceed the maximum allowed times, while option D is incorrect because it is a specific exception that requires court approval.