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Does a defensive driving course lower insurance costs?
I received a ticket for speeding, but it was my first offense. The officer who ticketed me said that I could probably take a defensive driving course to have the ticket dismissed or points reduced because it was my first violation. But will a defensive driving course help lower my insurance costs?
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
A speeding ticket can increase your insurance rates, but the friendly officer is correct. A defensive driving course can lower insurance costs, or at least in the idea that your car insurance won’t increase.
If your ticket is dismissed and you take a defensive driving class approved by your insurance company, completion of the course may lower your insurance costs by up to 20%.
Here’s a bit of information about defensive driving courses:
- Availability: Most states have a defensive driving program for first-time offenders.
- Purpose: Defensive driving programs are meant to teach first-time offenders the error of their driving habits.
- Accessibility: Defensive driving courses are usually available online and take approximately four to eight hours to complete.
- Outcomes: While the result will vary by state, you might be eligible for ticket dismissal or a reduction in points on your license.
Since you can get an insurance discount of up to 20% over a three-year period, taking the class is a no-brainer.
View full answer
- Gregory R.
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