Updated: July 17, 2025
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A defensive driving course insurance discount helps you save money without reducing coverage. Discount rates and qualification rules vary by company.
Defensive driving courses cost $20 to $100 and last three to 12 hours, with most courses taking six to eight hours. Online and in-person options are available.
Eligibility for a defensive driving discount depends on various factors, including age, location and course type.
Our analysis of industry data shows most drivers save about $200 to $800 over three years with a defensive driving discount, making courses worthwhile in most cases.
A defensive driver course is a class, either in person or online, that costs $20 to $100 and lasts three to 12 hours. Most courses take 6 to 8 hours, though shorter courses can finish within three to four hours. Comprehensive programs may require 10 to 12 hours.
Online courses cost $20 to $50 and offer maximum flexibility, perfect if you prefer learning in your pajamas or need to fit the course around a busy schedule. You can complete them at your own pace from home, and most providers allow you to stop and resume as needed. Online defensive driving courses are mobile-friendly and available 24/7.
In-person courses cost $50 to $100 and provide face-to-face instruction. These classroom sessions offer immediate answers to questions and may be completed in a single day. However, they require scheduling around specific class times and locations.
What will you actually learn? According to the National Safety Council, courses cover accidents, state traffic laws, dangerous driving situations and vehicle safety equipment. Most programs teach you:
How to spot and react to hazardous conditions before they become problems.
State-specific rules and recent updates (especially helpful if it's been a while since you took your driving test).
Proper following distances, safe turning and how to avoid collisions.
Managing cellphone use and other distractions that cause accidents.
Understanding how airbags, anti-lock brakes and modern safety features actually work.
Adjusting your driving for rain, snow and other challenging environments.
A defensive driving insurance discount works by reducing your premium after you complete an approved safety course, which shows insurers you’re a lower-risk driver. Many insurers offer this discount to drivers who voluntarily take a course that teaches accident avoidance and safe driving techniques.
Taking advantage of this discount can help a multitude of drivers, as auto insurance costs depend on several factors. Since age and driving record commonly influence your premium rates, new drivers like 17-year-olds often pay higher costs because insurers see them as riskier than experienced drivers (even when they can get cheap insurance deals). If you've completed a defensive driving course or are thinking of taking one, you can get a defensive driving discount that saves you money.
Most drivers can get this discount, but each company has different requirements. The qualification requirements vary but almost always include taking a defensive driving course. How much you save depends on your driving history and age.
Drivers under 25 and those over 55 to 60 years old are eligible for the discount in most states, though some states require insurers to offer this discount to drivers of all ages. GEICO offers discounts to drivers over 50, while some companies like Farmers restrict discounts to drivers 65 or older.
Most insurers require a clean driving record for a specific period, usually 12 to 36 months without at-fault accidents, claims, or moving violations. GEICO specifies that you can't have been involved in an at-fault accident to qualify for their defensive driving discount.
Each insurer has specific eligibility rules. Your course must be:
Check with your insurer first about requirements. This step is important because taking a non-approved course will prevent you from getting the discount.
States may also have laws related to defensive driving discount eligibility. In some cases, insurers are required to offer this discount to all drivers regardless of age. For example, Minnesota drivers can save up to 12% on applicable coverages, while some states like Massachusetts and Michigan don't offer defensive driver discounts at all.
You must meet the age and course requirements to qualify for a defensive driving discount. Depending on the insurer, there may be other qualification rules. For instance, you may need a clean driving record for several years without violations.
Check with your insurer first about requirements to avoid paying for a course that's not accredited.
Completing a defensive driving course can qualify you for a defensive driving discount. With this discount, you can receive 5% to 20% off your premium, depending on your location and insurance company.
We analyzed AARP survey data and found that New York drivers saved an average of $200 per year after completing defensive driving courses. For context, the national average cost of car insurance is $1,495 per year. Here are different scenarios:
Basic scenario:
High-value scenario:
Example:
If you’re a 45-year-old driver paying $1,200 annually, a 10% defensive driving discount saves you $120 per year. Over three years, that’s $360 in total savings for a $50 course.
Defensive driving courses almost always pay for themselves within the first year. Comparing companies can also help you find more affordable course options.
Follow these steps to get the maximum savings:
Not all companies offer this discount. Research companies that do. Then, compare their rates and policy offers. Generally, the best car insurance company is one that offers a balance of affordability and quality service. Once you choose an insurer, note its eligibility requirements for the discount.
Your state probably has a list of certified courses you can take. Check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or similar agency. Also contact your insurance company to confirm they accept your chosen course provider - don't skip this step! Popular approved providers include:
Choose a defensive driving course accredited by the insurance company you've chosen and certified by the state. You can take a class online or in person. Online courses offer flexibility and can be completed at your own pace, while in-person courses provide immediate instructor feedback.
Most defensive driving courses cover risks, traffic laws and defensive driving techniques. Complete the training and pass the course. Most courses require a final quiz or test with a passing score of 70% to 80%.
Once you get your certification, apply for the discount. Here's what you'll need to submit:
Processing times vary by insurer. The discount will appear on your policy in two to four weeks. Contact your agent if you don't see the discount applied within 30 days.
Your defensive driving discount expires every three years. To maintain the savings:
Some insurers will send renewal reminders, but you must maintain the discount.
Companies calculate premiums differently, and discount availability also varies. When looking for the best and cheapest policy, comparing quotes from multiple insurers can help. You can use MoneyGeek's calculator below to get accurate estimates for a quick comparison.
MoneyGeek's car insurance calculator will give you a customized estimate of your auto insurance cost. It's free to use, requires no personal information and we won't send you any spam.
Rates updated:
Jul 18, 2025
| Insurance Carrier | MoneyGeek ScoreMG Score | Average Monthly Payment | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  Capital Insurance Group | 94 /of 100 | $87 |
| 2 |  GEICO | 82 /of 100 | $109 |
| 3 | 83 /of 100 | $118 | |
| 4 | 83 /of 100 | $129 | |
| 5 | 79 /of 100 | $133 | |
| 6 | 77 /of 100 | $151 |
Although MoneyGeek partners with some of the companies we recommend, our content is written and reviewed by an independent team of writers, editors and licensed agents. Learn more about our editorial policies and expert editorial team.
Your insurance provider is one of the most important factors when shopping for defensive driving course discounts. Most major companies offer this discount, though some don't. The discount amount and eligibility requirements also vary by insurer. Here are the companies that offer defensive driving discounts:
Company | Requirement | Discount Amount | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|---|
The defensive driver discount is available to drivers over the age of 55. | Varies by state | To be eligible, drivers must complete an approved driver course and live in Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Nevada, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Utah or Washington. | |
Amica | Age requirement varies by state. | Not disclosed | Drivers must complete an approved driving course. |
Drivers who are at least 65 years old (or 55 in some states) qualify for the Senior Defensive Driver Discount. | Not disclosed | Drivers must complete a state-approved driver's education course and provide a certificate of completion. | |
GEICO has two types of discounts under driver’s education: defensive driving and driver’s education. | Varies by state | Eligibility requirements vary by state. | |
Drivers who are 55 years old or older in select states qualify for a defensive driving discount. | Not disclosed | Drivers must have no at-fault accidents in the past 35 months and complete a state-approved course. | |
Taking a defensive driving course can help you get a discount. Availability varies by state. | Depends on the state | Contact a local State Farm agent to learn more. | |
Eligible drivers can get a discount after completing a basic driver training course. | Not disclosed | USAA products are only available to active-duty military members, veterans and military families. Not available in Hawaii and North Carolina. |
A defensive driving class offers several benefits beyond insurance savings. With the right course, you'll learn techniques to become a safer driver and get financial protection. You'll also get expert advice from qualified instructors, which can reduce your accident risk and improve your driving record over time.
Some drivers, even experienced ones, could use a refresher on driving laws. A defensive driving course helps you get updated about traffic regulations and provides new information.
Driving can be dangerous. A defensive driver course helps make you a safer driver.
Having a violation on your driving record can affect you for years. Taking a defensive driving course proves you're trying to improve your driving awareness and may help remove points from your driving record.
Being a safe driver can save lives. Being responsible on the road lowers the risk of causing an accident that affects other people's lives.
These alternative ways to save can still help:
Defensive driving courses can save you up to 20% on car insurance, improve your driving skills and even remove points from your driving record. While eligibility rules and discount amounts vary by insurer and state, many drivers, especially young and senior motorists, can benefit.
Taking a state-approved defensive driving course could be a simple and cost-effective solution if you're looking for ways to lower your premium. Just verify with your insurer that your course is accredited before enrolling.
MoneyGeek answers frequently asked questions to help you better understand defensive driving courses and discounts.
Providers view 16-year-olds and other young drivers as high-risk drivers and they face higher premiums. Taking advantage of this discount can lower insurance rates. Defensive driving programs can also help teen drivers find cheaper coverage. Regardless of age, new drivers are seen as inexperienced and, therefore, high-risk.
No, anyone can take a defensive driving course. However, these programs target high-risk drivers, like teens and seniors. Experienced drivers can also take a driving course to get more insurance discounts. Insurance providers offer lower car insurance rates to good drivers with no claims or accidents on their record.
Yes, 18-year-olds and other teen drivers can take a defensive driving course after passing a driver's education course. It can supplement their safe driving knowledge and help lower premiums.
You have several options for defensive driving classes - online courses or in-person classes. Check your state's accredited service providers and courses to make sure you'll qualify for a discount. Your insurer should also have a list of accepted courses.
Online defensive driving classes are cheaper ($20 to $50) and offer more flexible schedules; you can take them from anywhere at any time. However, online courses risk not being accredited by your specific insurer. In-person courses ($50 to $100) are more hands-on and interactive. It's easier to clarify questions and concerns with an instructor. In-person classes may also be completed in one day, while online courses can be spread over several days or weeks.
The defensive driving discount can reduce coverage costs by 5% to 20% depending on your state and insurance company. While the eligibility requirements often vary based on where you live and your insurer, there are common qualifications. For instance, this discount is offered to drivers below 25 or over 55 to 60 years old, and drivers must complete a state-approved defensive driving course.
Lots of companies offer defensive driving discounts. Check with your insurer to see if you qualify. Companies with this discount include AAA, American Family, Amica, Farmers Insurance, GEICO, Nationwide, State Farm, Travelers and USAA.
A defensive driving course certificate and its associated insurance discount last for three years. After this period expires, you must retake an approved course to maintain the discount. The course takes three to 12 hours, with most courses running six to eight hours.
If you do not qualify for a defensive driving discount, there are other discounts automatically applied to safe drivers such as a three year safe driver discount and accident free discount. Most Insurance companies will apply these automatically to the insurance policy after running the Motor Vehicle Report (MVR), if it comes back clean.
Other driving programs that can lead to extra savings are the programs such as SnapShot, Intelli Drive, Dynamic Drive, etc. Insurance companies are starting to push for drivers to use these driving apps to help personalize their insurance premiums and save additional money on their car insurance. The initial step in the program saves you 10% off of the premium and at your renewal offer you could earn up to 30% off depending on how well you did. These programs are the most beneficial, and money saving programs that Insurance companies are offering very great discounts for completing.
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A defensive driving discount can lower your car insurance cost. We consulted several experts for their insights to help you better understand the topic. MoneyGeek follows a thorough research methodology to ensure our data is correct and our suggestions are relevant to the average driver. Our subject matter expert followed a multistep writing process that involved fact-checking and editorial review.
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Being a defensive driver can save you money and save lives. The following resources can help you learn more about driver safety, the best insurance coverage, how to avoid road dangers and more.
About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick, a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer, is MoneyGeek's resident Personal Finance Expert. With over five years of experience analyzing the insurance market, he conducts original research and creates tailored content for all types of buyers. His insights have been featured in publications like CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick holds a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He's also a five-time Jeopardy champion!
Passionate about economics and insurance, he aims to promote transparency in financial topics and empower others to make confident money decisions.
