Carrier vs. Carrier Comparisons
Related Companies
The best defensive driving car insurance discount are with Progressive, Travelers, and Geico. Drivers save an average of $12 per month with these providers.
These top ten providers offer very large discounts to safe drivers who have completed a qualified defensive driving course compared to their competitors.
| Company | Rank | A.M. Best | Defensive Driving Discount | Who Qualifies? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
#1 | A+ | 31% | Drivers 55+ who complete a state-approved course |
 |
#2 | A++ | 20% | Drivers 55+ who take an approved course |
 |
#3 | A++ | 15% | Drivers 50+ who complete an online course |
 |
#4 | A++ | 15% | Drivers 55+ who complete a safety program |
 |
#5 | A+ | 10% | Drivers 55+ who take a defensive class |
 |
#6 | A+ | 10% | Drivers 55+ who complete an approved course |
 |
#7 | A+ | 10% | Drivers 50+ who finish a defensive course |
 |
#8 | A | 10% | Drivers 55+ who take a certified course |
 |
#9 | A | 10% | Drivers 55+ who complete a recognized course |
 |
#10 | A++ | 5% | Military drivers who complete an approved course |
Choose these insurers if you want to really get the most benefit from your driving experience and also significantly reduce the cost of your insurance.
What You Should Know
- Progressive offers defensive driving discount of up to 31%
- Geico has the cheapest defensive driver car insurance rates
- Defensive driving discounts require clean records and completed courses
Get the right car insurance at the best price — enter your ZIP code to shop for coverage from the top insurers.
How to Qualify for Defensive Driving Discounts
To qualify for a defensive driving discount, all you really need to do is complete an approved course—either online or in person, depending on what your insurer allows. Before you start, it's a good idea to double-check with your insurance company or agent to make sure the course counts toward a discount.
You'll also need a clean driving record, and once you've finished, just send in your certificate of completion. From there, your insurer will usually apply the discount to your premium. The discount amount varies by company.
Progressive Insurance offers the highest cut at 31%, while Travelers comes in at 20%, and Geico and State Farm each offer 15%. Progressive leads with the biggest defensive driving discount at 31%, while Travelers offers 20%, and both Geico and State Farm sit at 15%.
| Company | Defensive Driving | Bundling | Good Student | Anti-Theft | UBI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
10% | 25% | 25% | 10% | 30% |
|
10% | 20% | 30% | 10% | 30% |
|
15% | 25% | 26% | 25% | 25% |
|
10% | 25% | 20% | 35% | 30% |
|
10% | 20% | 40% | 5% | 40% |
|
31% | 10% | 30% | 25% | 30% |
|
15% | 17% | 25% | 15% | 30% |
|
10% | 5% | 12% | 5% | 20% |
|
20% | 13% | 10% | 15% | 30% |
|
5% | 10% | 10% | 15% | 30% |
Most others—like Allstate, Farmers, Liberty Mutual, Nationwide, and The Hartford around 10%. USAA's lower at 5%, but it's still something. If you're looking to trim your premium without touching your coverage, this is one of the easiest ways to do it.
Defensive Driving Car Insurance Discounts From Top Providers
Defensive driver car insurance discounts can significantly lower your premiums, but the rates vary among insurers. Progressive has the biggest safe driver discounts for those who take defensive driver programs and sign up for its usage-based insurance, Snapshot (Learn More: Progressive Snapshot Review).
| Company | Defensive Driving Discount |
|---|---|
|
10% |
|
8% |
|
15% |
|
10% |
|
10% |
|
31% |
|
15% |
|
7% |
|
20% |
|
5% |
You can expect a discount of 10% as an average, but Progressive, Travelers, and Geico are our top three picks because they offer larger-than-average discounts for safe drivers.
Picking the right insurer is about balancing the discount with the level of service and policy features to make sure you're getting the best value for your circumstances.
For instance, State Farm has better customer service ratings than Progressive and Geico and offers a competitive 15% defensive driver auto insurance discount. Compare State Farm vs. Progressive car insurance to learn more.
Save With Defensive Driving Insurance Discounts
As one of the best good driver car insurance discounts, a defensive driver discount provides additional savings when you complete defensive driving courses. Rates vary greatly depending on your driving record and the coverage level you need.
Defensive Driver Discount & Minimum Coverage Rates
Defensive driver discounts for minimum coverage insurance show significant savings across multiple providers. Geico offers the lowest monthly rate at $68 after the discount (down from $81).
| Company | Before Discount | After Discount |
|---|---|---|
|
$110 | $99 |
|
$112 | $103 |
|
$80 | $68 |
|
$115 | $104 |
|
$108 | $97 |
|
$110 | $76 |
|
$99 | $89 |
|
$86 | $77 |
|
$100 | $80 |
|
$85 | $81 |
Travelers and Nationwide have the biggest overall savings of $20 or more per month, but their rates are still on the higher side at $80 and $76 per month, respectively. Allstate vs. Farmers car insurance sees some of the slightest reductions on the highest rates, showing that discounts don't always save money if your rates are already high.
Defensive Driving Discount & Full Coverage Rates
The defensive driver discount for full coverage car insurance shows notable savings across multiple providers. Geico remains one of the cheapest options with the most significant reduction, dropping from $95 to $81 per month.
| Company | Before Discount | After Discount |
|---|---|---|
|
$160 | $144 |
|
$105 | $94 |
|
$95 | $81 |
|
$160 | $144 |
|
$113 | $105 |
|
$115 | $103 |
|
$105 | $91 |
|
$118 | $110 |
|
$139 | $128 |
|
$174 | $157 |
Progressive also offers affordable premiums after the discount at $91 monthly (down from $99). Drivers who combine these savings with its Snapshot UBI get even cheaper rates.
Some drivers may not be able to qualify for defensive driver auto insurance discounts based on their records, including those with DUIs. Keep reading to see how and when defensive driving courses can improve your insurance rates based on driving record.
Defensive Driving Discount & Rates by Driving Record
For a clean driving record, USAA offers the lowest monthly rate at $84, while Liberty Mutual charges $248. Progressive, on the other hand, lives up to its top spot ranking with rates as low as $150.
Rates can spike if a driver has a DUI. As for Progressive, it's monthly premiums are a mere $200, while Liberty Mutual charges an average of $447 per month.
Read More: Top 10 Car Insurance Companies For High-Risk Drivers
Getting The Most Out of Defensive Driving Discounts
Use defensive driver discounts to cut down your car insurance rates, but keep in mind that some companies have strict restrictions and requirements for earning the discount.
- Eligibility: Complete an approved course to unlock insurance discounts. Eligibility varies by driving record and state regulations.
- Course Requirements: Some companies offer a free defensive driving course online, while others require drivers to take state-approved courses.
- How to Apply: You may have to submit a defensive driving course completion certificate to your insurer or earn it exclusively through the insurer's course program.
- Duration of Discount: The discount isn’t permanent. It usually lasts for three years if no driving violations occur. Check with your insurer for specific renewal policies.
Taking a free defensive driving course for seniors can sometimes help lower costs for eligible drivers. Don't forget to look for hidden auto insurance discounts that could lower your costs even more.
Check with your insurance provider to see which courses are approved under their discount program, then use this car insurance shopping guide to find the best rates and start saving.
What a Defensive Driving Course Covers
A defensive driving course teaches you how to avoid accidents by being more alert, aware, and prepared behind the wheel. It covers how to spot hazards early—like distracted drivers or changing road conditions—and how to adjust your speed and following distance to give yourself more time to react.
You’ll also learn how to handle aggressive drivers calmly, avoid distractions, and deal with emergencies like hydroplaning or sudden stops. Most courses include a refresher on current traffic laws, including newer rules you might’ve missed, such as updated hands-free or school zone regulations.
The cost benefits to taking a defensive driving course go beyond safety—it’s real-world training that can also knock some dollars off your monthly car insurance.
How to Save Money With Defensive Driving Insurance Discounts
To get the best defensive driving car insurance discount, focus on companies like Progressive, Travelers, and Geico that make it easy to take a defensive driving course online. These discounts often require proof of completion, but they can significantly reduce your premiums.
Standing on the sidelines ❌
— Progressive (@progressive) February 15, 2025
Saving with Progressive ✅ pic.twitter.com/7tbCtdJsmf
By maintaining a clean driving history and completing defensive driving courses, you can lower your rates. Use this approach to save money on your car insurance rates while improving your overall driving habits.
Enter your ZIP code into our free comparison tool to see how much car insurance costs in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a free defensive driving course that qualifies for a discount?
Free defensive driving courses are limited, but some community centers, state programs, or senior organizations like AARP occasionally offer them at no charge. However, free doesn’t always mean eligible — always verify with your insurer before enrolling.
How can a person lower the cost of his car insurance with defensive driving?
One of the simplest ways to reduce your premium is by completing a defensive driving course. Most major insurers offer a discount of 5% to 15% for passing an approved course, and some states require insurers to apply this discount for eligible drivers.
What is the best car insurance company for high-risk drivers?
State Farm, Progressive, and Geico are the best car insurance companies for high-risk drivers. They offer competitive rates and flexible policies for those with poor driving records or DUIs. Compare Progressive vs. Geico car insurance to learn more.
How much does a defensive driving course lower insurance with Geico?
Geico typically applies a 5% to 10% discount for eligible drivers who complete a defensive driving course. In real numbers, that can mean saving $50 to $150 annually, depending on your current rate, coverage level, and location.
Is the Geico defensive driving course discount worth it?
Yes — especially if you’re a high-risk or senior driver. For example, if your Geico premium is $1,200 a year and you qualify for a 10% discount, that’s $120 in annual savings. Considering most courses cost under $40, the math checks out quickly.
How much does a defensive driving course lower insurance with Progressive?
Progressive offers defensive driving discounts that range from 5% to 10%, and if you also participate in Snapshot, their usage-based insurance program, total savings can reach up to 31%, depending on your driving behavior and policy details.
Can you take an online defensive driving course for an insurance discount?
Absolutely. Many states and insurers accept online courses, which are often cheaper and more flexible than in-person classes. Just be sure the course is state-approved and accepted by your insurance provider before enrolling.
Is the Geico defensive driving course free or paid?
Geico doesn’t offer its own free course, but it does accept many paid options approved by the state. Most of these online courses cost between $20 and $40 and take four to eight hours to complete.
Which gender pays more for car insurance?
Statistically, men often pay more for car insurance than women, particularly younger men under the age of 25, due to the higher risk of accidents. Learn why car insurance is so expensive for some drivers more than others.
What does Reddit say about Progressive’s defensive driving discount?
According to Reddit users, Progressive’s discount works best when paired with Snapshot. Many mention saving between $75 and $200 per year but note that the company’s criteria can vary by state and driving history.
How much does Geico lower insurance after defensive driving, according to Reddit?
Reddit users report that Geico typically applies discounts ranging from $60 to $120 annually after completing a defensive driving course. Some say the savings continue for three years if your record stays clean.
Does USAA give a discount for taking a defensive driving course?
Yes, USAA offers a 5% to 10% discount for members who complete a state-approved course. This is available in most states and can apply for up to three years, though it’s generally reserved for drivers with clean records.
Are there free defensive driving courses for seniors that count toward insurance savings?
Yes. Programs like AARP Smart Driver offer courses that are occasionally free or discounted for drivers over 55. Many insurers, including Allstate and Nationwide, honor these courses with a 5% to 15% discount, especially in states with mature driver discount laws.
How much is the Progressive defensive driver discount in dollar terms?
On average, Progressive’s defensive driver discount saves customers between $75 and $150 per year. If you pair the course with Snapshot, the combined savings could be significantly higher — in some cases, up to 31% of your total premium.
Find the cheapest defensive driver car insurance companies near you by entering your ZIP code into our free comparison tool.
Does Allstate give discounts for completing a defensive driving course?
Allstate offers up to a 10% discount on auto insurance for drivers who finish an approved defensive driving or accident prevention course. Seniors often qualify for additional savings through Allstate’s mature driver discount programs.