Take A Defensive Driver Class and Get Auto Insurance Discounts

November 6, 2019

If you’re looking for ways to save on your auto insurance, many companies offer discount to drivers who take defensive driving classes. These discounts typically range from 5% to 20% off of your car insurance premium. You can expect the courses to take anywhere from four to twelve hours, which can be completed in an afternoon or a weekend.

You’ll learn about safety information, driving techniques, and local driving laws. These discounts are most commonly offered to teenagers and drivers over 60, but it will depend on your specific state law and insurer’s policies. Even if a discount doesn’t apply to you, it’s still worth considering taking a class because it will help you improve your driving skills and stay safe on the road.

Who should take a Defensive Driver Training class?

Well, everyone should take a defensive driver training class. However, the age groups most eligible for the defensive driver training discount are drivers under 25 and above 60 years old. The reason for this is because these age groups are most at-risk for accidents, and they have the highest insurance rates.

Other eligibility may be required in order to receive the discount. For example, in order to qualify for a driver training discount from Allstate, you must not have any recent at-fault claims or driving violations. Usually the discount will last anywhere from three to five years – then you will need to take the class again to refresh your skills and requalify for the discount.

What to expect in a Defensive Driver Training Class

These classes are taught in a classroom setting or online. These classes aren’t free, but you can expect to pay less than $100 total.

What you can expect to be taught is driving, road safety statistics, accident avoidance techniques, and state traffic laws. After you’ve gone through the course, you might also have to take a comprehension test in order to “pass” and qualify for an insurance discount. Once you’ve share documentation of your completion of the course with your insurer, you’ll see a discount on your premium from then on.

Online and in-person training classes differ in many different ways. Here are some of the differences to be aware of:

  • Online is generally cheaper than in-person
  • Online offers more flexible timing
  • Online can be done anywhere
  • Online has a higher chance that it’s not accredited/won’t get you a discount
  • In-person is generally more expensive
  • In-person requires you to go to the class at a specific time and place
  • In-person instructor can answer questions and provide guidance
  • In-person only takes one afternoon/weekend

Some people will have to take a Defensive Driver course because it was mandatory after traffic violations. A judge may be require you to take a course after you committed a serious traffic infraction. Or you might be able to take a course in order to reduce the number of “points” on your license.

Here are the companies that offer the discount. Remember to contact your insurance company to find out the requirements to obtain the discount.

  • AAA
  • Allstate
  • American Family
  • Farmers
  • GEICO
  • Liberty Mutual
  • MetLife
  • Nationwide
  • State Farm
  • Travelers
  • USAA

Remember, the defensive driving discount is one of the many discount and saving opportunities available to you if you are shopping for new auto insurance. If you’re looking to find a cheaper insurance plan, use our quote tool below to make sure you’re getting the most coverage for the best price.

Quick Money Savings Tip For Safe Drivers

There are dozens of auto insurers – Which one will give you the best rate?

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