Defensive Driver Courses


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Key Takeaways

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A defensive driving course insurance discount can help you save money without reducing the coverage that you have. Discount rates and qualification rules vary per company.

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Defensive driving courses cost $20 to $100 and last 3 to 12 hours, with most courses taking 6 to 8 hours. Online and in-person options are available.

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Eligibility for a defensive driving discount depends on various factors, including age, location and the type of course completed.

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Based on our analysis of industry data, most drivers save $200 to $800+ over three years with a defensive driving discount, depending on their premium and discount percentage, making the course cost worthwhile in most cases.

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What Is a Defensive Driver Course Discount?

A defensive driver course is a class, either in a classroom setting or online, that costs $20 to $100 and lasts 3 to 12 hours. Most courses take 6 to 8 hours, though you can find shorter courses that finish within 3 to 4 hours, while comprehensive programs may require 10 to 12 hours.

Course Format Options and Costs

You have two main format choices when selecting a defensive driving course:

  • 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. According to course providers, 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 You'll Learn in a Defensive Driving Course

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:

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    Road risk assessment

    How to spot and react to hazardous conditions before they become problems.

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    Traffic laws and regulations

    State-specific rules and recent updates (especially helpful if it's been a while since you took your driving test).

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    Defensive driving techniques

    Proper following distances, safe turning, and how to avoid collisions.

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    Distracted driving prevention

    Managing cell phone use and other distractions that cause accidents.

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    Vehicle safety systems

    Understanding how airbags, anti-lock brakes, and modern safety features actually work.

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    Weather and road conditions

    Adjusting your driving for rain, snow, and other challenging environments.

Many insurance companies reward drivers with discounts for completing defensive driving courses. This road safety training reduces accident risk and provides valuable financial protection. The requirements vary by company, so shop around to find the best deals.

How Defensive Driving Discount Works

Your auto insurance costs depend on several factors. Age, driving record, location, and vehicle type all 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).

You can lower your car insurance rates in several ways, and discounts are one of the easiest. If you've completed a defensive driving course or are thinking of taking one, you can get a defensive driving discount that puts money back in your pocket.

An illustration of a woman who is qualified for a defensive driving discount.

Defensive Driving Course Discount Requirements

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.

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    Age Requirements

    Drivers under 25 and those over 55-60 years old are the groups 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.

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    Driving Record Requirements

    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.

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    Course Accreditation Requirements

    Not all defensive driving courses are created equal. Each insurer has specific rules for eligibility. Your course must be:

    • State-approved through your Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
    • Accepted by your specific insurance company
    • Completed voluntarily (not court-ordered)
    • From an accredited provider

    Check with your insurer first to discuss necessary requirements - this step is crucial because taking a non-approved course means you won't get the discount.

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    State-Specific Requirements

    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.

How Much Does a Defensive Driving Course Lower Your Insurance?

If you have completed a defensive driving course or are thinking of participating in one, you may qualify for a defensive driving discount. With this discount, you can receive 5% to 20% off your premium, depending on your location and insurance company.

Defensive Driving Discount Cost Savings Example

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. Let’s examine different scenarios:

Basic Scenario:

  • Course cost: $50
  • 10% discount on $1,495/year = $149.50 annual savings
  • Three-year savings: $149.50 × 3 = $448.50
  • Net savings: $448.50 – $50 = $398.50

High-Value Scenario:

  • Course cost: $75
  • 15% discount on $2,000/year = $300 annual savings
  • Three-year savings: $300 × 3 = $900
  • Net savings: $900 – $75 = $825

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.

The numbers speak for themselves — defensive driving courses almost always pay for themselves within the first year. Comparing companies can also help you find more affordable course options.

An illustration of a woman discussing defensive driving discounts with her auto insurance representative.

How to Get a Defensive Driving Course Insurance Discount

The process is straightforward, and we'll walk you through each step to ensure you get the maximum savings.

  1. 1

    Look for a policy from an insurer offering a defensive driving discount

    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, take note of its eligibility requirements for the discount.

  2. 2

    Check state-approved courses and verify insurer acceptance

    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:

    • National Safety Council
    • AARP Smart Driver
    • American Safety Council
    • Defensive Driving by IMPROV
    • AAA defensive driving courses
  3. 3

    Take the course

    Choose a defensive driving course accredited by the insurance company you've chosen and certified by the state. Depending on your circumstances, 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.

  4. 4

    Complete the course

    Most defensive driving courses teach you about understanding risks, traffic laws and defensive driving techniques. Complete the training and pass the course - it's usually straightforward. Most courses require a final quiz or test with a passing score of 70-80%.

  5. 5

    Submit the necessary documents to your car insurance company

    Once you get your certification, apply for the discount. Here's what you'll need to submit:

    • Certificate of completion (original or certified copy)
    • Completed discount application form
    • Proof of course payment (if required)
    • Driver's license information

    Processing times vary by insurer, taking 2-4 weeks for the discount to appear on your policy. Contact your agent if you don't see the discount applied within 30 days.

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MAINTAINING YOUR DISCOUNT

Your defensive driving discount expires every 3 years. To maintain the savings:

  • Mark your calendar 2-3 months before expiration
  • Retake an approved defensive driving course
  • Submit your new certificate before the discount expires
  • Maintain a clean driving record during the discount period

Some insurers will send renewal reminders, but it's your responsibility to maintain the discount.

Compare Defensive Driving Car Insurance Discounts

Companies calculate premiums differently. The availability of discounts may also vary. 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.

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$192
High
$139
Average
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Low

Rates updated:

Jul 09, 2025

Insurance Carrier
MoneyGeek Score
Average Monthly
Payment
1
Capital Insurance Group

Capital Insurance Group

94
/of 100
$87
2
GEICO

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
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What Insurance Companies Give Discounts for Defensive Driving?

The 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.

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Age requirement varies per state.

Not disclosed

Qualified drivers must complete an approved driving course.

Drivers who are at least 65 years old (or 55 in some states) may qualify for the Senior Defensive Driver Discount.

Not disclosed

The driver has to complete a driver’s education course approved by the state DMV. You should also provide 
a certificate of completion from the agency.

GEICO has two types of discounts under driver’s education. These are the defensive driving and the driver’s educational course.

Varies between states

Eligibility requirements vary depending on the state.

An illustration of a man discussing with his wife if they should do a defensive driving course.

Benefits of Defensive Driving Courses: Other Reasons It May Be Good for You

A defensive driving class offers several benefits beyond just insurance savings. With the right course, you'll learn techniques to become a safer driver and get valuable financial protection. You'll also get expert advice from qualified instructors, which can reduce your accident risk and improve your driving record over time.

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    Refresh your knowledge

    Some drivers, even experienced ones, could use a refresher when it comes to driving laws. Taking a defensive driving course can help ensure that you are updated about traffic regulations and can provide you with new information.

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    Increase your safety awareness

    Driving can be dangerous. That’s why it’s important to be well-equipped with the right skills and knowledge. A defensive driver course can help make you a safer driver.

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    Improve your record

    Having a violation on your driving record can affect you for years. However, taking a defensive driving course can prove that you are trying to improve your overall driving awareness. It may help remove a few negative points from your driving record.

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    Save lives

    Being a safe driver can help you save a life. By being responsible on the road, you lower the risk of causing an accident that can affect other people’s lives.

Defensive Driving Discount Exclusions and Limitations

To qualify for a defensive driving discount, you must meet the age and course requirements. Depending on the insurer, there may be other qualification rules. For instance, you may need a clean driving record for a certain number of years and you shouldn’t have violations on your driving record.

Check with your insurer first to discuss necessary requirements to avoid paying for a course that's not accredited.

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ENSURE YOUR DISCOUNT IS ACTIVE

A defensive driving course certificate generally lasts for about three years, which is also the typical period for a defensive driving insurance course discount. This means you may have to complete a state-approved defensive driving class after the end of your discount term to keep it active. You can check with your insurer to learn more about the length of your discount.

Alternative Options for Drivers Who Don't Qualify

These alternative ways to save can still help:

  • Good driver discounts: Maintain a clean driving record for 3-5 years
  • Safe driver monitoring programs: Apps like Snapshot, IntelliDrive, and DriveWise that track your driving habits
  • Accident-free discounts: Automatic discounts for drivers without at-fault claims
  • Usage-based insurance: Pay-per-mile programs for low-mileage drivers
  • Multi-policy discounts: Bundle auto with home or renters insurance

Defensive Driving Course: Bottom Line

Defensive driving courses can help you save 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.

If you're looking for ways to lower your premium, taking a state-approved defensive driving course could be a simple and cost-effective solution. Just be sure to verify with your insurer that your course is accredited before enrolling.

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Defensive Driver Courses and Discounts: FAQ

MoneyGeek answers some frequently asked questions to help you better understand defensive driving courses and discounts.

Who should take defensive driving courses?

Is there an age limit for defensive driving programs?

Can teen drivers take a defensive driving course?

Where can I take a defensive driving class?

What are the benefits and drawbacks of online vs. in-person driving classes?

What is the insurance discount for defensive driving?

What insurance companies give discounts for defensive driving?

How long does a defensive driving discount last?

Ask the experts:

What are alternative options for drivers who do not qualify for defensive driving discounts?

Lauren Mckenzie - headshot
Insurance Agent and Broker at A Plus Insurance

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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Best Car Insurance Companies for Defensive Driver Discounts: Our Review Methodology

Why Trust MoneyGeek?

A defensive driving discount can lower your car insurance cost. To help you better understand the topic, we consulted several experts and asked for their insights. MoneyGeek follows a thorough research methodology to ensure our data is correct and our suggestions are relevant to the average driver. When producing this page, our subject matter expert followed a multistep writing process that involved fact-checking and editorial review.

Navigating car insurance can be challenging, especially if you're new to it. We consulted the following industry experts when compiling our reviews and suggestions about defensive driving discounts:

  • Patti Clement: senior vice president of private client advisors at HUB International Private Client Services
  • Lauren McKenzie: insurance agent and broker at A Plus Insurance

We asked them the following questions:

  • What are alternative options for drivers who don't qualify for defensive driving discounts?
  • What's the best way to evaluate whether getting a defensive driving discount is worth it?
  • Any tips on how to find the best defensive driving course?

MoneyGeek follows a detailed research process to provide you with informative, unbiased and trustworthy financial advice. Our team of editors fact-checks and verifies the information in our articles. Moreover, we regularly review and update our pages to ensure that the data remains fresh and relevant.

From researching to publishing, our team ensures we give you high-quality, reputable data. We tailor our pages to help you make the best possible financial decisions based on your needs and circumstances.

Defensive Driving Discount in Auto Insurance: Related Articles

Being a defensive driver can not only save you money, but it can also 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


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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.


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