Defensive Driver Courses & How They Help You Save On Car Insurance


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Key Takeaways

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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.

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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.

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

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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.

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What Is a Defensive Driver Course?

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.

Course Format Options and Costs

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    Online Courses

    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.

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    In-Person Courses

    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 cellphone 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.

How Defensive Driving Course Insurance Discounts Work

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.

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 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.

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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

    Each insurer has specific eligibility rules. 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 about requirements. This step is important because taking a non-approved course will prevent you from getting 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.

Defensive Driving Discount Exclusions and Limitations

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.

How Much Does a Defensive Driving Course Lower Your Insurance?

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.

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. Here are 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.

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

Follow these steps to 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, note 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. 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 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%.

  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. 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.

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MAINTAINING YOUR DISCOUNT

Your defensive driving discount expires every three 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 you must maintain the discount.

Compare Defensive Driving Car Insurance Discounts

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.

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Rates updated:

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1
Capital Insurance Group

Capital Insurance Group

94
/of 100
$87
2
GEICO

GEICO

82
/of 100
$109
3
83
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$118
4
83
/of 100
$129
5
79
/of 100
$133
6
77
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$151
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What Insurance Companies Give Discounts for Defensive Driving?

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.

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 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.

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    Refresh your knowledge

    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.

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    Increase your safety awareness

    Driving can be dangerous. A defensive driver course helps make you a safer driver.

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    Improve your record

    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.

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    Save lives

    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.

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 three to five 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 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.

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Defensive Driver Courses and Discounts: FAQ

MoneyGeek answers 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. 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.

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. We regularly review and update our pages to ensure 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 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


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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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