Defensive driving and driver training discounts

If you are taking a driver improvement course of any type for a discount, check with your car insurance carrier or state’s department of motor vehicles (if the discount is state mandated) for a list of approved course providers. Otherwise you may not get the discount you seek.

Mature (older) driver discount

Typical discount 5 percent to 15 percent.

Available to: Individuals 55 or older (sometimes the threshold is 60 or 65, depending upon state laws or insurer guidelines) who have successfully completed an approved accident-prevention class.

Caveats: In many states, this discount is mandatory. Some states require a written exam at the end of the course. Discount typically applies to bodily injury liability, property damage liability, collision and comprehensive coverages.

Length: Typically this discount is good for three years, and it is commonly renewable if the course is taken again.

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Learn more: Discounts for mature drivers

Driver training / Defensive driving / Accident prevention discount

Typical discount 5 percent to 15 percent.

Available to: Drivers who take an approved course or class to refresh and polish their skills.

Caveats: There may be age requirements, such as only those over 25. Sometimes all drivers of a vehicle must take the driving course in order for the discount to apply.   Liability coverages of bodily injury and property damage are discounted normally along with collision coverage.

If you take a defensive driving or driver improvement course to keep a ticket or points off your driving record, or to remove points from your driving record, then you may not be eligible to use the course for an auto insurance discount as well. Check with your auto insurance company on this matter.

Length: Typically this discount is good for three years. It may be renewable if the course is taken again.

Read more: Keep your license clean -- and your insurance cheap

Driver education course discount

Typical discount 5 percent

Available to: Drivers who complete an approved driver education course that includes both classroom training and behind-the-wheel, on-the-road instruction.  

Caveats: Generally this type of course is for new drivers. If the state mandates this type of training as part of the driver’s licensing process, the discount may not be available unless your state requires one.  Discount usually applies to bodily injury liability, property damage liability and collision coverages.

Length:  Typically this discount is good for three years.

Read more:  The basics of a driver's ed discount

Drug and alcohol driving awareness training

Typical discount 5 percent

Available to: Drivers who complete a special class on alcohol and drug awareness.

Caveats: Texas requires a 5 percent discount when the principal driver on a policy completes the course.  Discount may apply to liability coverages and collision insurance coverage.

Length:  Typically this discount will last for three years after the completion of the course.

Read more:  DUI reality: Harsher laws for first-timers