A defensive driving course may help you qualify for an auto insurance discount, but the course you need can depend on several factors. Your state, age, insurance company, and previous course completion may all affect which type of course qualifies.
This post will help you determine which course you should take. Before you enroll, check with your insurance company to make sure you’re choosing a course that meets its requirements.
1. Start with your state’s requirements.
Insurance discount programs vary by state, and insurers may have different requirements for qualifying courses. Some states have specific rules about approved defensive driving or driver improvement courses, while others give insurers more flexibility in determining which courses they accept.
Start by checking your state’s requirements, then confirm with your insurance company that the course you’re considering qualifies for your policy.
2. Choose the course that matches your situation.
A standard defensive driving course is generally intended for drivers who want to complete an approved course for an insurance discount. If your insurer simply tells you to complete a qualifying defensive driving course, this may be the type you need.
A mature driver course is designed for drivers who meet an insurer’s age requirements for a mature-driver discount. The minimum age and course requirements can vary, so check with your insurer before enrolling.
A refresher course may be required when you’ve already completed a qualifying course and need to renew your discount or meet another recurring training requirement. Don’t assume you’ll need to retake the same course. Ask your insurer whether a refresher course is accepted.
3. Check whether your age affects your eligibility.
If your insurer offers an age-based discount, ask when you’re eligible and what type of course you need to complete. If you’re already receiving a mature-driver discount, find out whether you need to complete a course again when the discount is up for renewal.
Your age is only one factor, though. Your insurer’s rules and your previous course history can also determine which course is appropriate.
4. Consider whether you’ve completed a course before.
If you’ve taken a defensive driving course for an insurance discount in the past, check when you completed it before signing up again. Your insurer may have rules about how often you can receive the discount or when you need to complete another course.
Ask whether your previous certificate is still valid, whether you need a refresher, and when your next course must be completed. Taking another course before you’re eligible may not provide an additional discount.
5. Find out how to submit your certificate.
Once you’ve confirmed which course you need, ask your insurance company how it wants to receive your completion certificate. Some insurers may accept a digital copy, while others may require a physical form of documentation.
Keep a copy of your certificate and any confirmation that you submitted it. You may need this information later to verify that you completed the course and qualified for the discount.
How do you know which course is right for you?
The right defensive driving course depends on your individual situation. Before enrolling, ask your insurance company:
- Which course qualifies for my policy?
- Do I qualify for a mature-driver discount?
- Do I need a standard course or a refresher?
- When do I need to complete the course?
- How often do I need to renew my discount?
- How should I submit my certificate?
Taking a few minutes to confirm these details can help you avoid completing a course that doesn’t meet your insurer’s requirements. Once you know what your insurance company accepts, you’ll know which course to take and what to do with your certificate afterward.
Interested in learning more about traffic safety?
Are you looking for defensive driving and traffic school courses? Do you want a discount on your auto insurance? Do you know a teen who’s ready to take an online driver education course?
Safe2Drive is here to help! We offer convenient online courses for drivers of any age! Visit our website today to learn about the online courses we offer in your state.