Defensive Driver Courses

A defensive driver course refers to a type of class, either in a classroom setting or online, that usually lasts six to eight hours. You may find shorter courses that finish within three to four hours. Meanwhile, longer sessions require 10 to 12 hours.

While defensive driving courses may vary depending on the service provider, there are certain aspects to expect. For instance, a class will include lessons about road risks, perceptions, driving conditions and safe driving techniques.

Many insurance companies offer drivers a discount as a reward for completing defensive driving courses. This type of road safety training can decrease the risk of getting into an accident. The qualifying requirements and rules vary. Shop around and compare offerings to find the best deals.

Depending on your needs and circumstances, your auto insurance costs can vary. Factors like age, driving record, location, and vehicle type all influence your premium rates. For instance, new drivers can get cheap insurance, but often pay higher costs because they’re presumed riskier compared to experienced drivers.

Fortunately, there are ways to lower car insurance rates. One of these is through discounts. If you have completed a defensive driving course or are thinking of taking one, you may qualify for a defensive driving discount.

A defensive driving course insurance discount can help reduce your car insurance costs. However, not all drivers qualify for this discount. Depending on the insurance company, qualification requirements vary but will likely include taking a defensive driving course. How much of a discount a driver can receive may also differ depending on driving history and age.

To qualify for a defensive driving discount, you must meet the age and course requirements. Depending on the insurer, there may be other qualification rules. For instance, you may need a clean driving record for a certain number of years and you shouldn’t have violations on your driving record.

Check with your insurer first to discuss necessary requirements to avoid paying for a course that's not accredited.

If you have completed a defensive driving course or are thinking of participating in one, you may qualify for a defensive driving discount. With this discount, you can receive 5% to 20% off your premium, depending on your location and insurance company.

The average cost of car insurance is $1,424 per year. Let’s say you take a defensive driving course for $50. You then qualify for a 10% defensive driving discount good for three years. This means you will save $142.40 per year or a total of $427.20 in three years.

Make sure you evaluate your circumstances and needs. Comparing companies may also help you find more affordable defensive driving courses.

Companies calculate premiums differently. The availability of discounts may also vary. When looking for the best and cheapest policy, comparing quotes from multiple insurers can help. You can use MoneyGeek's calculator below to get accurate estimates for a quick comparison.

One of the most important factors you need to consider when looking for defensive driving course insurance discounts is the insurance provider. While most major companies offer this type of discount, there are some that don’t. Additionally, the discount amount and eligibility requirements may vary for each insurer. The following insurers offer a defensive driving discount.

A defensive driving class may offer various benefits. With the right course, you can learn techniques to become a safer driver. You can also get expert advice from highly qualified instructors. This can help reduce your risk of getting in an accident and may improve your driving record in the long run.

Defensive driving courses can help you save up to 20% on car insurance, improve your driving skills and even remove points from your driving record. While eligibility rules and discount amounts vary by insurer and state, many drivers, especially young and senior motorists, can benefit.

If you're looking for ways to lower your premium, taking a state-approved defensive driving course could be a simple and cost-effective solution. Just be sure to verify with your insurer that your course is accredited before enrolling.

MoneyGeek answers some frequently asked questions to help you better understand defensive driving courses and discounts.

Why Trust MoneyGeek?

A defensive driving discount can lower your car insurance cost. To help you better understand the topic, we consulted several experts and asked for their insights. MoneyGeek follows a thorough research methodology to ensure our data is correct and our suggestions are relevant to the average driver. When producing this page, our subject matter expert followed a multistep writing process that involved fact-checking and editorial review.

Navigating car insurance can be challenging, especially if you are new to it. We consulted the following industry experts when compiling our reviews and suggestions about defensive driving discounts:

• Patti Clement: senior vice president of private client advisors at HUB International Private Client Services
• Lauren Mckenzie: insurance agent and broker at A Plus Insurance

We asked them the following questions:

• What are alternative options for drivers who do not qualify for defensive driving discounts?
• What is the best way to evaluate whether getting a defensive driving discount is worth it?
• Any tips on how to find the best defensive driving course?

MoneyGeek follows a detailed research process to provide you with informative, unbiased and trustworthy financial advice. Our team of editors fact-checks and verifies the information in our articles. Moreover, we regularly review and update our pages to ensure that the data remains fresh and relevant.

From researching to publishing, our team ensures we give you high-quality, reputable data. We tailor our pages to help you make the best possible financial decisions based on your needs and circumstances.

Being a defensive driver can not only save you money, but it can also save lives. The following resources can help you learn more about driver safety, the best insurance coverage, how to avoid road dangers and more.