Driving Defensively: Lower Your Auto Insurance Rates

Defensive driving courses can help you save on auto insurance if your insurer offers a defensive driver discount. The discount amount varies depending on your insurer, age, state, and other factors. Before signing up for a defensive driving course, it is important to check your state's regulations, learn about your insurer's available discounts, and select an approved course. These courses are designed to improve your driving skills and teach you techniques to anticipate and avoid collisions, making you a safer driver.

Check your state's regulations or insurance company's requirements for defensive driver discounts

Defensive driving courses can help you save on auto insurance, but eligibility rules and requirements vary by state and insurance company. Before signing up for a defensive driving course, it is important to check your state's regulations and your insurance company's requirements to ensure that you are eligible for any discounts. Here are some steps you can take to check your state's regulations and your insurance company's requirements:

• Research your state's laws and regulations: Some states require insurers to offer defensive driving discounts, while others do not. Find out if your state mandates such discounts and understand the eligibility criteria. For example, some states may require drivers to be above a certain age, such as 50 or 55, to qualify for the discount.
• Contact your insurance company: Learn about the specific discounts offered by your insurer, including any age restrictions. Each insurance company has different discount policies, and understanding these can help you make an informed decision.
• Ensure the course is approved: If a defensive driving discount is available, make sure the course you select is approved by your state and/or insurance company. Taking an unapproved course may not qualify you for the discount.
• Compare course options: Defensive driving courses can be taken in-person or online, and the costs, timing, and formats may vary. Compare these options to find the best fit for your needs and preferences.
• Understand the discount amount and duration: Defensive driving discounts typically range from 5% to 20% off your car insurance premium. However, the actual amount and duration of the discount can vary depending on your state, insurer, and other factors. Be sure to understand how long the discount will last and if there are any requirements to renew it.

By following these steps, you can make an informed decision about taking a defensive driving course and maximize your chances of receiving a discount on your auto insurance. Remember to review your state's regulations and your insurance company's requirements carefully to ensure you don't miss out on any potential savings.

Compare the costs, timing, and formats of approved defensive driving courses

Defensive driving courses are available in a variety of formats, including online, in-person, and behind-the-wheel. The costs and timing of these courses can vary depending on the format and the provider.

Online courses are generally the most flexible and affordable option, with prices ranging from $15 to $40. They can be completed at your own pace, from the comfort of your home, and often offer convenient processing for insurance discounts. However, it's important to ensure that the online course you select is accredited by your state's DMV and your insurance company to qualify for any discounts.

In-person courses typically take place in a classroom setting and may offer the advantage of having a certified instructor to answer your questions. They usually cost between $50 and $100 and may include behind-the-wheel instruction. These courses generally take place over an afternoon or a weekend.

Behind-the-wheel instruction is also available through some providers and can be a valuable supplement to online or classroom learning. The cost of this type of instruction can vary depending on the provider and the length of the course.

When comparing costs, it's important to consider the potential savings on your insurance premiums. Discounts for completing a defensive driving course can range from 5% to 20% and often last for three to five years. Therefore, even if you pay a higher upfront cost for the course, you may end up saving more money in the long run.

In terms of timing, defensive driving courses can vary in length, with some as short as four hours and others ranging up to twelve hours or more. It's important to check the specific requirements of your state and insurance company, as the length of the course may impact your eligibility for discounts.

Overall, when choosing a defensive driving course, it's crucial to consider cost, timing, format, and accreditation to ensure that you qualify for any potential insurance discounts and maximize your savings.

Take the course and pass the test (if applicable)

Once you've chosen a defensive driving course, you'll need to take the course and pass any tests that are part of the curriculum. Defensive driving courses can be taken online or in person, and they usually take between four and 12 hours to complete. The exact curriculum will vary depending on the course provider and your state, but you can generally expect to cover topics such as crash statistics, driving psychology, road dangers, safety equipment, and crash prevention techniques. Some courses will also cover state-specific traffic laws.

After completing the course, you'll typically receive a certificate of completion, which you can then submit to your insurance provider to apply for the defensive driving discount. Be sure to check with your insurance company about their specific requirements for earning the discount.

Submit your defensive driving course completion certificate to your insurance company

Once you have completed your defensive driving course, you will receive a course completion certificate. This is what you will need to submit to your insurance company to apply for your discount.

The process for submitting your certificate will vary depending on your insurance company and your location. It is always a good idea to contact your insurance provider and ask how to submit your defensive driving completion certificate. Then, follow the company's instructions and submit the insurance copy of your certificate.

Some insurance companies will require you to log in to your policy and provide them with the date the course was completed. Others may ask you to submit a copy of your certificate online. GEICO, for example, asks that you log in to your policy and follow the instructions on the Discounts page. Once you have done this, they will notify you of your savings.

It is important to note that not all defensive driving courses will qualify you for an insurance discount. Before signing up for a course, be sure to check that it is on your insurance company's approved list.

Enjoy your discounted auto insurance premium

Defensive driving courses are a great way to save on your auto insurance premium. Not only do they make you a safer driver, but they also help you save money! Here are some tips to help you enjoy your discounted auto insurance premium:

Understand the Benefits of Defensive Driving Courses

Defensive driving courses offer a range of benefits beyond just a discounted insurance premium. These courses can help you improve your driving skills, making you a safer and more confident driver. You'll learn techniques to anticipate and avoid accidents, as well as how to handle various road situations. This can lead to fewer accidents and a better driving record, which can further lower your insurance costs over time.

Choose the Right Course for You

When selecting a defensive driving course, you can choose between online and in-person options. Online courses offer flexibility and convenience, allowing you to learn at your own pace and from the comfort of your home. On the other hand, in-person courses provide interactive learning and the opportunity to ask questions directly to an instructor. Consider your learning preferences and schedule when making your choice.

Compare Course Costs and Formats

Defensive driving courses typically range from $20 to $100, with online courses usually being more affordable. Compare the costs and formats of different courses to find one that fits your budget and preferences. Remember to choose a course that is approved by your state and insurance company to ensure you receive the discount.

Check State and Insurance Company Requirements

Eligibility for defensive driving discounts can vary by state and insurance company. Check with your state's regulations and your insurance provider to understand their specific requirements. Some companies may offer discounts only to certain age groups, such as young or senior drivers, while others may have different criteria. Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria before enrolling in a course.

Enjoy Your Discounted Premium

Once you've completed an approved defensive driving course, you can enjoy your discounted auto insurance premium! The discount amount will vary depending on your insurer, age, state, and other factors. Be sure to review your insurance policy and understand the duration of the discount, as some companies may apply the discount for several years. If you're ever unsure about your eligibility or the discount details, don't hesitate to contact your insurance provider for clarification.

Frequently asked questions