Recently I got the ticket for the same reason and here is how I got rid off..
The ticket will have three options, accept the guilt and pay the fine, pay the fine and join the school and appeal in the court. The best option for me was to pay the fine and join the online school.
Reason - It will not put in the record, which causes increases in insurance (could be 28% depends on the state) and saves the time.
Send the ticket with that option checked along with the amount specified.... and wait for their mail reply.
Note : The certificate you will get after defensive driving course can be submitted to insurance to get reduce in your insurance cost.... Hope it helps ! All da best.