Learning to drive is exciting. The possibility of going wherever you want without relying on a ride or public transportation is freeing. As liberating as driving can be, however, there are certain responsibilities and expenses tied to driving, such as car insurance, which all drivers are required to have. Car insurance is a significant expense for any driver, but it’s even more expensive for younger drivers — young drivers are inexperienced and often reckless, hence the higher insurance cost. While there’s no way around paying for car insurance, it’s possible for young drivers to lower the cost of insurance by completing a driver’s education course at a driving school near you — an online driving school is also an option.
In the blog below, we’ll navigate the nuances of car insurance and its ties to driver’s ed, including discounts, requirements, and the overall benefits of enrolling in a driver’s ed program.
What’s the Connection Between Driver’s Ed and Car Insurance?
Driver’s education, which most people commonly refer to as driver’s ed, teaches new drivers how to navigate the road safely. Whether it’s memorizing road signs or learning the intricacies of a four-way stop, driver’s ed breaks down the basics of driving over several classes — a 30-hour driver’s ed course is recommended for most young drivers. Aside from helping new drivers learn the rules of the road, insurance discounts are a major incentive for enrolling in a driver’s ed program.
Car insurance quotes are higher for underage drivers because they are more at risk of being involved in an accident. Drivers between 16 and 19 are more likely to get into a car accident than drivers in other age groups. But, when young drivers undergo driver’s ed, insurance companies see that as an investment in safer driving. Knowing the rules of the road inside and out makes accidents less likely, meaning fewer claims. While driver’s ed is not mandatory all over the country for young drivers, it’s beneficial for all young drivers because of the car insurance discounts.
Insurance Discounts for Completing Driver’s Ed
Most insurers offer discounts for young drivers if they can prove they finished a driver’s ed course. The amount varies from one insurance company to another, and it can also vary depending on the policy. Car insurance discounts for young drivers who have completed a driver’s ed course range from 5% to 20%, though the average is closer to 10%. While it may not sound like a lot, it can be over time once the savings are tallied up.
Drivers need not do much to claim these discounted rates aside from providing the insurance company with a certificate of completion from the driver’s ed program.
Requirements for Insurance Discounts
While insurance discounts are available for many drivers, there are certain criteria drivers must meet. In this case, insurance discounts are typically for teenage drivers, who are at a higher risk on the road and, as a result, pay more for their insurance premiums. However, these kinds of insurance discounts can be extended to adult drivers who have taken refresher courses, proving they are up-to-date on road rules and best practices.
Drivers hoping to get an insurance discount by completing a driver’s ed course must enroll in a course that is either approved by the state or another authority. This is to ensure programs meet the same standards. On that note, while online driver’s ed courses are convenient, they may not all meet the standards set forth by the state. It’s best to check in with your insurance before enrolling to ensure you get a discount.
How Driver’s Ed Benefits New Drivers Beyond Discounts
While discounted insurance is a good reason to take driver’s ed courses, there are other reasons. Drivers who enroll in a driving program develop safer driving habits, resulting in fewer accidents in the long term. In addition, driver’s ed builds confidence behind the wheel. Navigating traffic, handling emergencies, and mastering vehicle control are skills that require hands-on practice, and a structured program provides a safe environment for learning. More importantly, driver’s ed courses lead to long-term cost savings. Drivers with fewer accidents pay lower premiums over time, making driver’s ed a wise, cost-effective investment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Driver’s Ed and Insurance
It’s okay to have questions about car insurance discounts. Below are a few of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to car insurance discounts based on driver’s ed completion.
Do online driver’s ed courses qualify for insurance discounts?’
Yes. Online driver’s ed courses are extremely convenient, especially for young drivers who don’t have a driving school nearby. However, not all online driver’s ed courses are valid. To ensure you get a discount on your car insurance, you’ll need to pick a state-approved driver’s ed course that meets the standards of your insurance provider. Check in with your insurance provider if you’re unsure.
Are discounts available for adults taking driver’s ed?
Yes and no. Car insurance discounts for drivers who have completed driver’s ed primarily target teenage drivers. New drivers are most at risk of making mistakes and being involved in an accident, resulting in higher premiums, which is why they get the discount. But there is something of a loophole, so to speak. It’s possible for adult drivers to get an insurance discount when taking refresher courses, though it depends on the insurance company.
How long do discounts last after completing driver’s ed?
That can depend on the insurance company, the policy, and the driver. On average, discounts can last until the driver reaches a specific age, such as 25, or for a set number of years. It’s worth checking in with your insurance company to know exactly when the discount expires.
Guarantee Lower Car Insurance Premiums — Sign Up for Driver’s Ed Today
Driver’s ed is a smart investment in your long-term safety and finances. Completing a driver’s ed program will allow you to earn significant car insurance discounts, develop safer driving habits, and save money in the long run.
Ready to get started? Explore the driver’s ed programs offered by American Driving Academy to learn more. Contact us today to sign enroll for a driver’s ed program either in person or online.
American Driving Academy is Colorado's largest driving school, serving drivers across 15 Colorado locations since 1999, with more than 400,000 customers served through driver's ed, permit testing, drive testing, and behind-the-wheel lessons.
