How An Online Defensive Driving Course Can Save You Money

Saving money is one of the best financial moves you can make for your future self. While there are many money saving strategies, one unique method is to take an online defensive driving course.

An online defensive driving course is where you learn about things like defensive driving techniques, state traffic laws, and how to avoid traffic accidents. The course typically takes 4 to 6 hours, although it does not have to be completed in one sitting, and is packed with benefits.

Not only is a defensive driving course useful for keeping points off your license and improving your driving skills, it can also help you save major dollars on your auto insurance and avoid having your license suspended.

Here are the exact financial benefits of an online defensive driving course and how you can register and complete a course in your state.

Earn a 10 Percent Car Insurance Discount

An online defensive driving course provides a great opportunity to lower your monthly rates on car insurance. The discount depends on the state - it normally ranges between 5 to 10 percent - but any percentage is helpful, especially if you are currently struggling with high premiums.

According to NerdWallet, good drivers with poor credit pay over $2,500 per year on auto insurance. With a 10% discount, you can save over $250 per year or $20 per month. Over the course of 3 years, you will save $750!

Safe driving also has a direct impact on your insurance rates. One at-fault accident can raise your auto insurance rates by 31% or more. In addition, you will likely have to pay accident costs and possibly medical bills. A defensive driving course helps ensure that your future finances do not suffer.

Save Money on Transportation

An online defensive driving course helps you save money on transportation in two ways. By taking the course online, you don’t have to drive to a stuffy classroom to attend the course and waste money on gas.

A defensive driving course also protects your future self from losing your license. When you receive multiple speeding or traffic violations, you risk having your license suspended.

If your license is suspended, you have to rely on public transportation such as buses or subways to get around. These transportation options can quickly get expensive depending on what city you live in. Too, you miss out on the freedom of having your own vehicle!

Protect Yourself from High Accident Fees

Car accidents cost $230.6 billion every year in the U.S. That’s an average of $820 per person. This amount doesn’t count medical bills, time away from work if you’re injured, or even possible costs for your damaged vehicle.

If you’re involved in a car accident, you could be paying major amounts of money for years to come. Defensive drivers are less likely to be involved in car accidents. In short, a defensive driving course keeps you safe on the road and at less risk of losing money on accident fees and charges. 

How to Register for a Defensive Driving Course

Ready to save money? If you’re taking a defensive driving course to qualify for an auto insurance discount, contact your insurance company to ensure that they offer the discount and that you meet the requirements. Also ask if they accept certificates from online defensive driving courses (not every company or state does). 

If everything checks out, you’re free to register for a course. Registering for an online defensive driving course is simple. Open an account with a service provider by filling out your contact information. 

Here are options to register for an online defensive driving course by state:

• New jersey defensive driving course
• Florida basic driver improvement course
• California traffic school
• Delaware defensive driving course
• Texas defensive driving course
• Tennessee traffic school
• Virginia driver improvement course
• Georgia Defensive Driving Course
• Missouri Driver Improvement Course
• Nevada traffic school online

The course also typically costs between $20-$40, but you’ll earn back this money quickly in financial benefits. Once you’ve paid for the course, you can then complete the lessons and the final exam (hint: choose a course provider that offers unlimited exam retakes for free).

You’ll receive a certificate of completion - normally available for immediate download or via mail - that you can give to your insurance provider. You’ll also have the confidence that you can drive safely and avoid costly accidents and fees.

Save with an Online Defensive Driving Course

An online defensive driving course doesn’t just make you a better driver. It also gives you the opportunity to save and improve your finances. And by taking the course online, you can complete on your own schedule without having to drive to a physical location. It’s a win-win for you and your wallet!