Get an Easy Auto Insurance Discount with a Driver Safety Course

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Written by J.J. Starr Edited by Quiana Darden Reviewed by Amanda Clear

Updated April 11, 2023

Drivers who complete driver safety training courses receive a lot of benefits. They gain confidence on the road and significantly reduce their chances of getting into a severe car accident. But did you know they could earn between 10 and 15% off their car insurance premium?

This article covers all the essential details for getting the driver safety course discount. By the end, you’ll know how to earn one for yourself (and you can dazzle your friends with your fantastic insurance savings at your next get-together).

Sounds good? Let’s do this. 

Key Takeaways

• Driver safety courses are popular online, in-person, and hybrid classes that teach students safe driving techniques.
• Drivers who complete safety training can often earn a discount on their auto insurance premiums. Most car insurance companies offer around 10% on policies if drivers have completed training.
• To earn the discount, students must complete the coursework and examination from an insurer-approved educator.
• Drivers must submit proof of course completion to their insurance provider and follow any additional rules before they receive the discount. 
• Policyholders can combine the driver safety course discount with any other discount they qualify for at their insurance company. Combined with comparing car insurance rates, this discount is a great way to save money.

What is the Driver Safety Course Discount?

Drivers who complete additional driver safety training can often earn a Driver Safety Course discount. Many courses are open to drivers of any age. However, some options target specific drivers, such as mature drivers or teens.

Coursework varies, as does the course length and how instructors teach it. In addition, drivers can take classes online, in person, and through hybrid classrooms. Depending on where you live (the courses approved by the insurers), students can often find classes in many languages other than English, including:

• Spanish
• Chinese
• Tagalog
• Vietnamese
• Arabic

How Much Can You Save?

Most insurance companies offer a 10% discount for completing a course, but some advertise steeper cuts. The largest we could find comes from GEICO at up to 20% off. Discounts last for three years on average, so those savings add up. 

Note: These are examples. There’s no guarantee you’ll save this amount of money with your discount. 

In addition to the savings awarded from course completion, you may also save via the safe driver discount. It typically saves you between 10% and 15%, with some companies offering as much as 30% off car insurance premiums.

Who Is Eligible for a Driver Safety Course Discount?

Eligibility depends on the insurance company. Some insurers only offer a discount to teen drivers or drivers over 55. But most companies extend it to any driver so long as they complete an approved course and submit supporting documentation. 

5 Steps to Earn the Discount 

You can take five steps to earn the safety driver course discount. Let’s go over each in detail.

Find an Insurance Company Offering the Discount

Many insurers offer a discount for completing driver training, even your current insurer. You can look up insurers in your area one by one or use our auto insurance comparison calculator to generate a list for you (with quotes) and narrow your choices using that list.

Enroll in an Approved Course

To qualify, you’ll need to take a course from an educator-approved by your insurance company. Many insurers provide a list of approved courses. Check their websites for the list. You can also contact your insurance company if you have questions about course approval.

Courses can cost anywhere from $15-$100. Some insurers partner with specific educators and offer discounted tuition to policyholders.

Complete Coursework and Examination

Most classes last four to eight hours and take students through specific coursework (no homework). At the end of the course, students take a test and often receive their scores immediately. 

Online classes offer instant certificates emailed directly to the students’ inboxes. Each course provider will have their way of conducting business.

Submit Your Certificate of Completion to Your Insurer

Once you receive your certificate, you’ll need to submit it to your insurer. Some insurance companies will allow you to submit your documents online, but others may require you to email, fax, or mail it. 

Follow Up

It can take several days for your car insurance company to process your certificate. Often, policyholders receive a notification email when it’s done. We recommend following up when you receive your next bill to ensure the provider applied the discount. 

What Are Driver Safety Course Courses?

A driver safety course is a short educational session that provides drivers with theoretical and hands-on experience with safe driving. Course curriculum and classroom settings can vary, so let’s take a closer look at those next.

What’s Covered?

Most driver safety courses focus on safe driving practices and accident prevention techniques. The curriculum goes beyond not driving under the influence or following the speed limit and typically teaches students:

• How to assess and maintain safe driving distance (hint: it’s three seconds during good conditions).
• How to quickly identify and avoid road hazards, including common road hazards such as parked vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists.
• How to avoid hydroplaning in rainy weather and what to do if you hydroplane.
• How to drive safely in snowy conditions. 
• When and where car accidents typically occur, such as at intersections.

Classes may include virtual driving experiences where students can practice their new skills. Some in-person and hybrid courses involve real-life driving experiences where instructors accompany students on the road.

Online vs. In-person Courses: Pros and Cons

Online courses come with many advantages, but there are significant drawbacks. Consider the following.

• Pro: Easier to learn at your own pace and on your own time.
• Pro: No distractions from other students in the classroom.
• Pro: No commute time.
• Con: Lacks one on one, in-person interaction with the instructor.
• Con: Students will need specific technological tools, such as a computer or laptop, to complete the course.

Of course, in-person classes aren’t perfect either.

• Pro: The chance for a one-on-one learning experience.
• Pro: Easier to ask questions and get answers right away.
• Con: Inflexible scheduling requirements.
• Con: Typically more expensive than online courses.

Find Driver Safety Discounts and Courses by State

Though it would make sense to start with state-approved courses, you should actually begin your journey with your insurance company. Find out which courses can earn you a discount. You may need to call customer service to find a list, but most insurers have information on their website. 

Below is a list of insurance companies that offer discounts for completing driver safety training to help you get started.

Driver Safety Course Discount FAQs

Where can I take a driver safety class?

Most drivers can complete driver safety courses online, in person, or hybrid classroom. But, rules and regulations vary by state and insurance company. Always check with your insurance company and your state’s Department of Transportation or DMV.

What is the insurance discount for taking a class?

The discount for driver safety courses ranges by state and insurance company. On average, insurers advertise discounts of 10%, but some offer ranges. For example, GEICO states on its website that drivers can earn anywhere from 5% to 20% off their premiums. The company does not state which factors affect the degree of discount awarded. 

How long does the discount last?

On average, discounts for driver safety courses last three years from the completion date. Driver safety courses for young drivers last until the driver ages out of the program. Age limitations are typically set between 21 and 25 years old. 

J.J. Starr Insurance Writer

J.J. Starr is an insurance writer for Compare.com who specializes in auto insurance and personal finance. She has a passion for helping people save money by explaining complex topics like car insurance in a way that is simple and easy to understand. Prior to writing for Compare.com, J.J was a registered banker and life insurance consultant. She holds a master's degree in writing from New York University and a bachelor's degree from Stephens College.