How to Get a Defensive Driver Auto Insurance Discount in 2024
Lower your chance of getting in an accident by taking a defensive driving course. As a reward, insurance companies may provide you with a defensive driving insurance discount which could save you up to10% on your auto insurance rates.
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Jeff Root
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Jeff is a well-known speaker and expert in insurance and financial planning. He has spoken at top insurance conferences around the U.S., including the InsuranceNewsNet Super Conference, the 8% Nation Insurance Wealth Conference, and the Digital Life Insurance Agent Mastermind. He has been featured and quoted in Nerdwallet, Bloomberg, Forbes, U.S. News & Money, USA Today, and other leading fina...
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UPDATED: Sep 7, 2024
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UPDATED: Sep 7, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
- Taking a defensive driving course may qualify you for a discount from your insurance company in some jurisdictions, but each state has its own regulations.
- A defensive driving course discount normally allows savings between 5% and 20% on your auto insurance rates
- Major insurance companies like Geico, AAA, The Hartford, Nationwide, and Farmers offer discounts for defensive driving courses, but the specifics of the discounts you receive — and how much of them you get — vary from state to state.
Drivers who enroll in defensive driving courses are often eligible for savings from their auto insurance companies, which normally range from 5% to 20% off your rates. The four to eight-hour lessons, which often take place over the course of an afternoon or weekend, contain safety information, driving methods, and regional driving rules.
State regulations and your insurer’s policy may affect eligibility, although young drivers and older drivers are typically given discounts. Even if you’re not qualified for a discount, taking a defensive driving course will help you become a better driver and increase your safety while driving.
Defensive Driving Discount: What is it?
Age, driving history, and the type of vehicle a motorist drives are just a few of the many factors that affect your car insurance rates. Depending on your background and current situation, you can be eligible for discounts, like the defensive driving discount.
Several insurance companies give drivers this discount as a reward for passing defensive driving classes. The risk of being in an accident is greatly reduced with this kind of road safety instruction.
Rules and eligibility conditions for the discount can change, so shop around and compare multiple insurance companies to find the greatest offers.
Furthermore, defensive driving discounts are designed to reward drivers who take steps to improve their driving skills and reduce their risk on the road. A common question is, can defensive driving lower insurance? Generally, yes, it can. Completing a defensive driving course often results in a discount on your insurance premium.
Insurance companies provide driver education insurance discount and driver safety course insurance discount as incentives for drivers who take these courses, recognizing that improved driving skills reduce the likelihood of accidents and claims.
Does a defensive driving discount affect how much you pay for auto insurance?
Your auto insurance costs may vary based on your requirements and environmental factors. For instance, inexperienced drivers frequently pay more due to the perception that they are riskier than experienced drivers.
Fortunately, there are strategies for reducing auto insurance costs. One of them involves offering auto insurance discounts. You might be eligible for a defensive driving discount if you’ve taken a defensive driving course. Depending on your car insurance company and ZIP code, you could save anywhere from 5% to 20% with this discount.
Also, taking classes to reduce car insurance is a smart strategy for lowering your premiums, and one effective option is a defensive driving course. Many people seek a defensive driving course coupon or look for a defensive driving coupon online to make the course more affordable. If you are located in New Jersey, you might consider the defensive driving course in New Jersey to take advantage of local discounts.
By enrolling in these courses and utilizing available coupons, you can earn a defensive driving discount that reduces your auto insurance costs, making it a cost-effective way to enhance your driving skills and save money on premiums.
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How to Earn the Discount in 5 Easy Steps
Unlocking a discount on your car insurance is simpler than you might think, and it often starts with taking a defensive driving course. Many drivers ask, can defensive driving lower insurance? The answer is yes, as completing such a course can lead to significant savings. Insurance companies frequently offer a driver education insurance discount to encourage safer driving practices.
By following these easy steps to complete a defensive driving course, you can enhance your driving skills and qualify for reduced insurance premiums, making it both a cost-effective and safety-enhancing choice. You can start by following these steps.
Step 1. Find Auto Insurance Companies With Defensive Driving Discounts
Look for an insurer that offers a discount for safe driving. Not every business provides this deal, so investigate those that do. The best auto insurance provider typically strikes a balance between cost and level of service, so compare quotes and discount options.
Also, when looking for auto insurance companies that offer discounts for safe driving, consider those that provide a Liberty Mutual defensive driving course discount or an Allstate defensive driving course discount. Not every insurance provider offers these discounts, so it’s important to check which ones do. Finding the best auto insurance provider involves comparing quotes and evaluating the available discount options.
By choosing an insurer that offers these defensive driving course discounts, you can reduce your premiums and enjoy both cost savings and reliable coverage.
Step 2. Look Up State-Approved Courses
There can be a list of approved courses that you can take in some states. You can inquire about this with the DMV in your state or a comparable organization. Exploring State-Approved Courses can help you save on auto insurance premiums. For instance, you might choose an Allstate-approved defensive driving course or Progressive-approved defensive driving courses. Completing these approved courses can make you eligible for a defensive driver discount.
Additionally, many insurance providers, including State Farm, offer a defensive driving course discount with State Farm. By enrolling in these state-approved courses, you not only improve your driving skills but also benefit from reduced insurance rates through these discounts.
Step 3. Take the Training
Select a defensive driving course that is approved by the state and accredited by the insurance provider you have chosen. Depending on your needs, you can enroll in a class in person or online.
Step 4. Pass the Course
Defensive driving training often covers risk awareness, traffic regulations, and defensive driving tactics. Make sure you finish the course and receive a passing grade.
Moreover, successfully completing a defensive driving course can lead to valuable insurance savings. For example, you might receive an insurance discount for South Carolina defensive driving course if you complete the course in that state.
Additionally, many insurers offer a nationwide defensive driving discount for those who finish approved defensive driving programs across the country. By passing these courses, you not only improve your driving skills but also qualify for reduced insurance premiums, making it a beneficial step for both enhancing road safety and lowering your insurance costs.
Step 5. Tell Your Auto Insurance Company
You can apply for the discount once you receive certification. Send your insurer the relevant paperwork and information. Await their decision on whether or not you qualify for the discount.
In addition, after completing a defensive driving course, it’s crucial to inform your auto insurance company to secure any available discounts. For example, you may be eligible for an American Family defensive driving discount or a USAA defensive driving discount.
By notifying your insurer of the course completion, you ensure that these discounts are applied to your policy, which can lead to significant savings on your premiums. This step not only helps you benefit from the improved driving skills acquired through the course but also reduces your overall insurance costs.
Which auto insurance companies provide discounts for defensive driving?
Drivers who complete defensive driving courses receive discounts from the majority of top auto insurance providers.
Out of the top 10 insurance providers in America, Geico, AAA, The Hartford, Nationwide, Progressive and Farmers offer discounts for defensive driving courses.
Learn more about Geico defensive driving course here.
However, the laws of each state differ regarding eligibility and the amount of the discount. To confirm what is offered in your area, check with your state DMV and your insurance agent.
Auto Insurance Companies With Driver's Ed Discounts
| Company | Requirements | Discount |
|---|---|---|
| Allstate | Complete the teenSMART® driver education program. | 10% |
| American Family | Successfully complete a defensive driving course. | 5% |
| Farmers | Offer senior driver's ed Discount. Must be at least 65 (55 years in some states). Driver's Education course must be approved by DMV. | 15% |
| Geico | Successfully complete an approved course. | 10% |
| State Farm | All drivers of vehicles under 21 have to complete a qualifying course. | 12% |
| The Hanover | Successfully complete the Hanover SafeTeen Program. | 7% |
| The Hartford | Successfully complete a driver training course or defensive driving course. | 6% |
| Travelers | Successfully complete an approved course. | 9% |
| USAA | Successfully complete an approved course. | 11% |
Just one of the many discounts and savings chances accessible to insurance customers is the defensive driving discount, so keep that in mind. Comparing quotes for the best deal on auto insurance may be just as helpful as lowering your rates.
Subsequently, when looking for auto insurance companies that offer discounts for defensive driving, it’s helpful to know which options are available. Many insurers provide valuable incentives for completing a defensive driving course. For example, some companies offer a senior citizen driver discount, which benefits older drivers who complete these courses.
Additionally, Geico defensive driving course discount is an option for those who finish an approved course with Geico, helping to reduce your premiums.
Does Liberty Mutual give discounts for defensive driving courses?
Yes, Liberty Mutual provides a discount for defensive driving courses, but only in states where it is required by law. Although specific discount amounts and standards vary, insurance companies must provide qualifying drivers a defensive driving discount in 34 states and the District of Columbia.
Even if Liberty Mutual does not provide a defensive driving discount in your area, you should still consider enrolling in a course. You can better prevent accidents and other ticketable offenses that raise your Liberty Mutual rates. Defensive driving classes may even be able to lower your license’s point total or keep you from receiving a moving violation, depending on your state.
Furthermore, when exploring whether Liberty Mutual provides discounts for defensive driving courses, it’s helpful to know that such courses can indeed impact your insurance rates. For instance, completing a Liberty Mutual defensive driving course may qualify you for discounts, potentially reducing your insurance premiums.
Additionally, if you are in Florida, enrolling in a defensive driving course in Florida to lower insurance can also result in significant savings. Beyond specific companies, many insurers offer a driver safety course insurance discount and a driver training insurance discount for those who complete approved courses.
For seniors, there is often a government-mandated auto insurance discount for seniors that acknowledges the benefits of defensive driving courses in improving road safety. By taking advantage of these discounts, you can enhance your driving skills and lower your insurance costs.
Learn more about other ways the company rewards safe driving, including usage-based insurance options that enable you to save long-term. Liberty Mutual also provides a good driver discount to individuals with a clean driving record. Read Liberty Mutual RightTrack reviews to learn more.
Read more: How to Get a Good Driver Auto Insurance Discount
Defensive Driving Discount Eligibility
A defensive driving course insurance discount may lower your auto insurance rates. However, not all drivers are eligible for this reduction.
The prerequisites differ depending on the insurance provider but almost always entail attending a defensive driving course. A driver’s discount may vary based on their age and driving experience as well.
Typically, the age brackets that qualify for the discount are those under 25 and those over 60. This is due to the fact that people in these age groups are thought to have the highest chance of being involved in a car accident.
States may also have regulations governing who is eligible for a defensive driving discount. In some circumstances, insurance companies may be forced to give this discount to all drivers, regardless of age.
Different defensive driving programs exist. Each insurer has eligibility guidelines and standards, and some insurance companies may accept only certain courses.
There may be additional eligibility restrictions, depending on the insurance provider. For instance, some businesses might exclude drivers from eligibility if they have recently filed at-fault accident claims or received penalties.
Discount for Defensive Driving: Exclusions and Limitations
You must be at least 18 years old and have completed a defensive driving course to be eligible for the discount. There could be different eligibility requirements depending on the insurance. For instance, you might need to have a spotless driving record for a particular amount of years and shouldn’t have any infractions.
To discuss requirements, such as paying for an unaccredited course, speak with your insurer first.
Driving lessons are also employed as either voluntary or required components of punishments following traffic infractions in numerous states. “Traffic school” or “remedial driving classes” are other names for this.
For instance, once you commit a serious traffic infringement, the judge might order you to finish a defensive driving course. Alternatively, you might be able to enroll in a course to reduce the number of points on your license.
Most of the time, court-mandated seminars for drivers with a history of moving violations differ from those intended to lower insurance costs. Many insurers also require a spotless driving record for a driver training discount. So, if the court orders traffic school, you could have to wait to qualify for an insurance discount until your violation is expunged from your record.
You may receive a three-point credit for completing the fundamental driving safety course at the DMV’s discretion, which can help keep your driving record spotless in the event of subsequent infractions.
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Discount Fundamentals: Driving Safety Course
You can reduce your insurance costs without reducing your coverage by taking a defensive driving course. Each company has different qualifying criteria and discount rates.
- You may receive a 5%–20% discount on your insurance after completing a defensive driving course.
- The average length of a defensive driving course is six to eight hours. Longer training can last 10–12 hours, while shorter sessions last three-four hours.
- Age, locality, and the kind of course taken all play a part in determining eligibility for a defensive driving discount.
There are some things to anticipate, even though defensive driving courses may differ depending on the service provider. For instance, a course might cover topics like perceptions of risk on the road, traffic conditions, and safe driving practices.
In addition, when exploring the basics of discounts related to driving safety courses, it’s useful to consider the options offered by various insurers. For instance, completing the Allstate defensive driving course or the Allstate defensive driving course online can help you qualify for insurance discounts by improving your driving skills.
Similarly, taking the Geico defensive driver course or the Geico safety driving course can also lead to potential savings on your insurance premiums. By engaging in these courses, you not only enhance your driving safety but also gain access to valuable discounts that can lower your insurance costs.
What happens during a defensive driving course?
A defensive driving course normally lasts four to eight hours and explains safe driving practices using written materials, films, quizzes, and other teaching techniques. Shorter courses can be completed in three to four hours, while some classes offer longer lessons of 10 to 12 hours.
If you decide to take a defensive driving course in person, you will sit in a classroom with a live teacher. The course may also include some driving. In-person training can be ideal for you if you prefer to be able to ask questions and have a more practical educational experience.
The entire experience of taking an online defensive driving course will be virtual, but that doesn’t mean you should slack up. The majority of online defensive driving courses have questions that you must respond to in order to move on to the subsequent section. Still, they aren’t always about defensive driving techniques.
To demonstrate that you’ve been paying attention, be prepared to know the presenter’s name or the color of the car that was featured in the previous video.
Moreover, during a defensive driving course, participants gain valuable skills to improve their road safety. For instance, the Progressive accident prevention course offers training on how to avoid accidents and handle various driving scenarios. Similarly, the online defensive driving course by Progressive provides the flexibility to complete this training from home.
Also, drivers may receive benefits such as a senior driving discount in America for older individuals and insurance rewards for completing a driver training course. These incentives can lead to lower insurance premiums and enhance overall driving safety.
The Bottom Line on Getting a Defensive Driving Insurance Discount
You can lower your chance of an accident by taking a defensive driving course to help you drive safely. Additionally, finishing a course with a passing grade can qualify you for a defensive driving discount. This could range from 5% to 20%, depending on the auto insurance company and insurance laws in your state.
The top insurance companies offer defensive driving discounts, including Geico and Nationwide. If you want to find affordable auto insurance and discounts, start comparing quotes from these and other popular companies near you with our free comparison tool below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I qualify for a Progressive discount for defensive driving?
Progressive offers a defensive driving discount, and you might be able to acquire one. If you meet the requirements and pass an approved defensive driving course, Progressive may reduce your rates by about 5% to 15%.
In order to qualify, you might need to be a certain age, have a spotless driving record, enroll voluntarily (rather than under a court order), or satisfy other state-specific requirements. To learn the laws in your area, speak with a Progressive representative directly. Learn more about Progressive auto insurance discounts.
What kind of savings can you expect from a defensive driving course?
The average monthly cost of auto insurance is $119. Let’s assume you spend $50 on a defensive driving course. After that, you’re eligible for a three-year 10% defensive driving discount.
You’ll save around $12 per month with a defensive driving insurance discount. This averages at $140 a year, or $430 over the course of three years. Having stated that, you must assess your requirements and situation. You might find more affordable defensive driving courses by comparing quotes from different companies.
Does Allstate provide a discount for defensive driving training?
Yes, but Allstate only provides a discount for defensive driving courses in states where it is required by law. Although specific discount amounts and requirements vary, insurance companies must offer eligible drivers a defensive driving discount in 34 states and the District of Columbia.
Can I get a defensive driver auto insurance discount if I have a poor driving record?
Insurance providers may have different policies regarding defensive driver discounts for individuals with poor driving records. While some insurers may still offer the discount as an incentive for improving driving habits, others may have stricter eligibility criteria. It’s best to check with your insurance provider directly.
How long does a defensive driver auto insurance discount last?
The duration of a defensive driver auto insurance discount varies among insurance providers. Some companies offer the discount for a set number of years, while others require you to renew your defensive driving certification periodically to maintain the discount. Check with your insurance provider for specific details.
How much can I save with a defensive driver auto insurance discount?
The amount you can save with a defensive driver auto insurance discount varies depending on the insurance company and your individual policy. Generally, the discount ranges from 5% to 15% off the premium for the liability, collision, and/or personal injury protection (PIP) portions of your policy.
Does Allstate offer discounts for completing a defensive driving course?
Yes, Allstate typically offers discounts for completing a defensive driving course. If you successfully finish an approved defensive driving course, you can qualify for a discount on your insurance premiums with Allstate. This discount is intended to reward drivers for enhancing their safety and driving skills.
Can taking a defensive driving course lower my insurance rates?
Yes, taking a defensive driving course can lower your insurance rates. Insurance companies often provide discounts to policyholders who complete these courses because it demonstrates a commitment to safer driving. The amount of discount can vary based on the insurer and the specifics of the course, but it generally results in lower insurance costs.
Does Progressive accept defensive driving courses for insurance discounts?
Yes, Progressive accepts defensive driving courses for insurance discounts, allowing you to qualify for these savings. This program is intended to encourage safer driving habits and provide financial benefits to responsible drivers. Also, Progressive offers a discount for completing a defensive driving course. If you finish an approved course, Progressive will reduce your insurance premiums as a reward for improving your driving skills and promoting road safety.
Does State Farm provide a discount for completing a defensive driving course?
Yes, State Farm provides a discount for completing a defensive driving course. By successfully finishing an approved course, you can receive a discount on your insurance premiums with State Farm. This incentive is part of State Farm’s efforts to promote safer driving and reward policyholders for their commitment to road safety.
What is the process for sending my defensive driving certificate to Liberty Mutual?
To send your defensive driving certificate to Liberty Mutual, follow these steps: First, log in to your Liberty Mutual account and look for the option to upload documents. Alternatively, you can email the certificate to Liberty Mutual’s customer service email address or mail a physical copy to their office. It’s important to follow Liberty Mutual’s specific instructions for submission to ensure that your discount is applied.
How long does the Geico defensive driving course take?
The Geico defensive driving course typically takes between 4 to 6 hours to complete. The exact duration can vary depending on the course format (online or in-person) and the provider offering the course. It’s advisable to check with Geico or the course provider for the precise length and format.
How much will a defensive driving course reduce insurance rates with Progressive?
The discount for completing a defensive driving course with Progressive can vary but generally ranges from 5% to 10% off your insurance premiums. The exact amount of the discount depends on factors such as your driving history and the specifics of the course completed. For the most accurate information, contact Progressive directly.
How much can a defensive driving course lower my insurance rates?
A defensive driving course can typically lower your insurance rates by approximately 5% to 15%. The exact reduction depends on your insurance company and individual circumstances. Insurers offer these discounts as an incentive for drivers to improve their skills and reduce the risk of accidents.
How do I submit my defensive driving certificate to Allstate?
To submit your defensive driving certificate to Allstate, you can do so through several methods: log in to your Allstate account and use the online document upload feature, email the certificate to Allstate’s customer service department, or mail a physical copy to their office. Follow Allstate’s specific instructions to ensure your discount is applied correctly.
How do I submit my defensive driving certificate to Progressive?
You can submit your defensive driving certificate to Progressive by uploading the document through your online account, emailing it to Progressive’s customer service, or sending a physical copy by mail. Make sure to follow Progressive’s guidelines for submission to ensure the discount is processed.
How do I upload my defensive driving certificate to Geico?
To upload your defensive driving certificate to Geico, log in to your Geico account and use the document upload feature available in their online portal. Alternatively, you can email the certificate to Geico’s customer service or mail a physical copy, following the instructions provided by Geico.
How do I upload my defensive driving certificate to Progressive?
To upload your defensive driving certificate to Progressive, access your online account and use the document upload function. If you prefer, you can also email or mail the certificate according to Progressive’s submission guidelines. Ensure that you follow their specific instructions to apply the discount.
Which insurance companies offer discounts for completing a defensive driving course?
Many insurance companies offer discounts for completing a defensive driving course. Common insurers that provide such discounts include Allstate, Progressive, State Farm, and GEICO. These discounts are designed to reward drivers who take steps to improve their safety on the road.
Which insurance companies accept certificates for discounts from driving school courses?
Insurance companies that typically accept certificates for discounts from driving school courses include Allstate, Progressive, State Farm, and GEICO. Each insurer may have its own requirements and procedures for accepting these certificates, so it’s important to check with your specific insurance company for their guidelines.
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Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
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Jeff Root
Licensed Insurance Agent
Jeff is a well-known speaker and expert in insurance and financial planning. He has spoken at top insurance conferences around the U.S., including the InsuranceNewsNet Super Conference, the 8% Nation Insurance Wealth Conference, and the Digital Life Insurance Agent Mastermind. He has been featured and quoted in Nerdwallet, Bloomberg, Forbes, U.S. News & Money, USA Today, and other leading fina...
Licensed Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.