Yes. Completing a defensive driving course can lower your car insurance costs in Illinois. Insurance companies often reward safe driving habits with discounts on premiums. In fact, Illinois drivers – especially those 55 and older – may qualify for reduced rates after finishing an approved defensive driving class. By improving your driving skills and keeping a clean record, you not only become safer on the road but also stand to save money (often around 5% to 10% off your premium).
This guide will explain how defensive driving courses work, who is eligible for discounts, and how to take advantage of these savings. (For personalized advice on lowering your auto insurance, call Insure on the Spot at 773-202-5060.)
What Is a Defensive Driving Course and Why Do Insurers Care?
A defensive driving course is a traffic safety class that teaches motorists techniques to drive more safely and anticipate hazards. It covers topics like avoiding distractions, driving in bad weather, accident prevention strategies, and understanding traffic laws. The goal is to make you a more cautious, proactive driver who can avoid accidents.
Insurance companies care about defensive driving courses because safer drivers pose less risk. If you’re less likely to get into an accident or incur traffic violations, your insurer is less likely to have to pay out claims.
This risk reduction often translates into lower premiums for you. In other words, taking a defensive driving class signals to your insurer that you’re committed to safe driving, which can earn you a discount on your car insurance.
Key Benefits of Defensive Driving Courses:
- Refreshed Driving Knowledge: Even experienced drivers learn valuable tips (like proper following distances and hazard anticipation) that reduce the chance of a crash.
- Accident Avoidance: Techniques taught in class help you steer clear of potential collisions, keeping your driving record clean.
- Long-Term Savings: Fewer accidents and tickets mean you avoid surcharges or rate hikes. You may also become eligible for a “good driver” discount by staying incident-free.
- Immediate Insurance Discount: Many insurers provide an immediate discount on your premium once you show proof of course completion.
How Much Can a Defensive Driving Course Save You on Insurance?
Defensive driving discounts typically range from about 5% to 15% off your car insurance premium. The exact savings depend on your insurance provider and your state’s rules. In Illinois, a common discount is around 5% to 10% off, though some companies might offer more. For example, if your annual premium is $1,500, a modest 5% discount would save you about $75 per year – and potentially more if the discount is larger. Over the course of a few years, those savings can really add up.
Consider These Points About Potential Savings:
- Illinois Law for 55+ Drivers: Illinois state law requires insurance companies to offer a discount on liability coverage to drivers 55 years or older who voluntarily complete an approved defensive driving course. This mandated discount applies for three years after course completion. While the law doesn’t specify the exact percentage, insurers commonly give around a 5% (or higher) premium reduction for qualifying mature drivers. After three years, the driver can take a refresher course to continue the discount.
- Younger Drivers and Others: If you’re under 55, many insurers still offer defensive driver discounts as an incentive, even though it’s not mandated by law. These are usually voluntary discounts (often called “safe driver” or accident prevention discounts), and the percentage can vary by company.
- Course Cost vs. Savings: Defensive driving classes aren’t free, but they are usually inexpensive, often between $20 and $60 in Illinois for an online course. In many cases, the insurance savings you get within the first year will offset the course fee (and then some).
Who Qualifies for a Defensive Driving Insurance Discount in Illinois?
Eligibility for a defensive driving discount in Illinois depends on your age, driving record, and your insurance company’s policies. Here are the typical qualifications and requirements:
- Drivers 55 and Older: In Illinois, if you are age 55+ and complete an approved 8-hour defensive driving or motor vehicle accident prevention course, you automatically qualify for a discount on your car insurance premium (this is mandated by Illinois law). The course must meet Illinois Secretary of State standards (such as the National Safety Council’s Defensive Driving Course) and be taken voluntarily. Upon completion, the discount applies to your policy for three years.
- Drivers Under 55: For drivers under 55, eligibility varies by insurer. Many insurance companies in Illinois do offer a defensive driver discount to younger adults as well, even though not required by law. Typically, you must take the course voluntarily (not court-ordered) and have a relatively clean driving record.
- Clean (or Mostly Clean) Driving Record: Insurance companies may require that you have no recent at-fault accidents or serious traffic violations to qualify for the discount.
- Voluntary Course Completion: To get an insurance discount, the defensive driving class must be taken voluntarily. If you were ordered by a court to attend a traffic school or defensive driving course due to a ticket, that usually will not make you eligible for an insurance discount.
How to Get a Defensive Driving Course Insurance Discount in Illinois (Step by Step)
Ready to lower your premium? Here’s a simple step-by-step process to follow to ensure you get the defensive driving discount on your insurance:
- Check with Your Insurance Company First: Verify with your insurer that they offer a defensive driving discount and ask about their specific requirements.
- Enroll in an Illinois-approved Defensive Driving Course: Ensure the course you choose is state-approved. Options include online and in-person classes.
- Complete the Course and Pass Any Required Tests: Most courses require you to complete all sections and pass a final exam.
- Submit the Completion Certificate to Your Insurer: Contact your insurer and submit the proof of course completion.
- Enjoy Your Discount – and Keep Driving Safely: Once the discount is applied, you’ll start paying a lower rate for at least the next three years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Defensive Driving and Insurance
Q: Can I take a defensive driving course online in Illinois to get the discount?
A: Yes. Illinois allows online defensive driving courses for insurance discounts, and most insurance companies accept online course certificates just as they would for an in-person class.
Q: How long does the insurance discount from a defensive driving course last?
A: The discount typically lasts for three years in Illinois, after which you will need to take the course again to renew the discount.
Q: What does a defensive driving course cost, and is it worth it?
A: A typical defensive driving course in Illinois costs about $20 to $60. In terms of value, it is usually worth it. If your insurance discount saves you more than the cost of the course, you’ve come out ahead financially.
Q: Will a defensive driving course keep a traffic ticket off my record?
A: Yes, if it’s part of a court supervision agreement. However, a court-ordered course will not qualify you for an insurance discount.
Get a Quote Today!
If you’re looking to save on auto insurance, consider signing up for a defensive driving course and then reach out to Insure on the Spot at 773-202-5060 for a free quote on your policy. Our Chicago-based agents can help you understand which discounts you’re eligible for – from defensive driving credits to good driver discounts and more.