A variety of factors, including accidents and citations, affect your auto insurance rates. Learn what defensive driving is and how it can lower insurance rates so you stay safe and save money.
What is Defensive Driving?
Every time you get behind the wheel, you face threats from other drivers, inclement weather and other challenges. Defensive driving refers to the safe driving practices you use to avoid accidents and other incidents on the road.
How Does Defensive Driving Lower Insurance Rates?
Insurance companies assign a rating to each driver based on risk. Age, gender, marital status, address, driving history and other factors affect your rates, and insurers often charge more for drivers in higher-risk categories.
A speeding ticket can raise your insurance rates significantly, but many insurers offer a discount if you complete an approved defensive driving course. A certificate of completion shows you are up-to-date on safe driving practices and better prepared to avoid accidents or citations.
How Defensive Driving Courses Lower Your Insurance Rates
During a defensive driver class you typically receive a refresher on safe driving practices and current traffic laws.
Topics often covered in a course
- Review your state's driving laws.
- Practice passing other cars safely.
- Understand when and how to yield properly.
- Learn how to handle skids.
- Familiarize yourself with newer technology like anti-lock brakes or rear cameras.
- Discover how to avoid common distractions and keep your eyes on the road.
Defensive driver courses can last from a single four-hour session to multiple sessions spread over weeks, and they may be offered online or in a classroom setting. They generally cost between $20 and $100, and you can check with the National Safety Council, AAA, AARP or a local retirement community for a class near you.
After you successfully complete a defensive driving class that is approved by your state and accepted by your insurance company, provide the certificate of completion to your insurer. You may also be required to remain accident-free and avoid citations for a specified period to qualify for the discount.
Young drivers between about 16 and 25 years old may save up to 15 percent annually after taking an approved defensive driving class, while older drivers may qualify for smaller savings. The discount varies by insurer, so check with your company for details and see Good Driver Rates.
For additional industry-specific information or to explore other insurance options, you can also review resources such as Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Services Auto Insurance.
Talk to your insurance agent about approved defensive driver courses and how completing one might affect your premium and eligibility for discounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as an approved defensive driving course?
An approved course is one that meets your state's requirements and is accepted by your insurer; check with your state DMV and your insurance company before enrolling.
Will taking a course always lower my insurance premium?
Not always—discounts depend on your insurer's policies, your driving history, and whether the course is accepted by the company.
How often do I need to renew a defensive driving certificate to keep a discount?
Renewal requirements vary by insurer; some allow renewal every three years while others have different policies, so confirm the timeframe with your insurer.