Most senior drivers have decades of experience behind the wheel and show good judgment on the road. Yet, they should still consider refresher training, which can improve their safety and ensure they keep up with the latest traffic regulations.
In this guide, we’ll tell you more about the different types of safe driving classes for seniors and how to choose one that meets your needs. We’ll also discuss their potential benefits, such as reduced car insurance premiums and a lower likelihood of accidents.
What Are Safe Driving Classes for Seniors?
The American Automobile Association (AAA), the AARP, and other organizations offer safe driving classes for seniors. These are training programs aimed at helping mature drivers (50-55+) stay safe behind the wheel and compensate for changing vision, hearing, and other age-related issues.
Safe driving classes can help seniors cope with these changes and update their knowledge of traffic laws. Some include vision and hearing assessments, reaction time exercises, and self-assessment tools. They last a few hours to a few days and can be completed online or in person.
According to a survey published in 2020, driver training can improve seniors’ confidence and performance behind the wheel and allow them to remain independent for longer. What’s more, it can significantly reduce motor vehicle crashes among adults aged 65+.
Considering this, it comes as no surprise that AAA, State Farm, Nationwide, and other major insurance carriers offer discounts for taking mature driver classes.
For instance, the Allstate mature driver discount is valid for three years and could save you $100 to $229 per year on car insurance. Farmers, on the other hand, will lower your rates by 10-15% if you complete a mature driver course.
That said, let’s go over some of the best safe driving classes for seniors in California.
Types of Safe Driving Classes Available for Seniors
When it comes to safe driving classes, there are a few different types. Let’s take a look at what each offers so that you can decide which one is right for you.
State-Approved Mature Driver Courses
Some states require auto insurance carriers to provide discounts for taking driver safety courses. To qualify, you must complete a state-approved program on a voluntary basis. How much you can save depends on your insurance company.
For instance, California drivers aged 55+ who complete an approved mature driver course can save 5% to 15% on auto insurance for three consecutive years.
- A good example is Geico, which rewards customers who complete DMV-approved mature driver courses with a 5% discount.
- If your car is insured with Amica, you’ll get a discount of around 10%.
- Progressive will lower your premiums by 10% for three years if you take and complete a mature driver course in California.
- The best offer comes from Mercury Insurance, which provides a discount of around 16%.
Similarly, Florida law requires insurance providers to lower their rates for customers aged 55+ who complete a state-approved mature driver course.
These training programs are available online, but some take place in a classroom setting. The curriculum covers topics relevant to senior drivers, such as modern vehicle technology and the impact of medications on driving performance.
Their price varies between $5 and $70 or higher, depending on the provider. At Traffic Safety Institute, you can take our state-approved courses for free and pay only after you pass.
AARP Smart Driver Course
The AARP Smart Driver is an online refresher course for mature drivers over 50. It lasts six hours and can be completed from any device, including smartphones and tablets.
Upon enrollment, you’ll learn more about the following:
- Coping with age-related changes that may impact your driving skills
- How different medications can affect your ability to drive safely
- How to avoid distracted driving
- Accident prevention strategies
- The rules of the road
- Special driving situations (e.g., night driving techniques)
- Safety features in modern cars
And much more.
In a recent survey, nearly 90% of respondents said they were confident about their driving abilities after completing the program. Most participants also reported safer driving habits, such as obeying the speed limit and limiting driving in bad weather.
To date, more than 20 million people have taken the Smart Driver course to refresh their driving skills. All participants receive a certificate of completion, which allows them to save on car insurance.
As far as pricing goes, you’ll pay a flat fee of $29.95 or less, depending on whether you are an AARP member. After registration, you have 60 days to complete the course.
Students in Connecticut or New York must finish the course within 30 days of enrollment. NY residents also have the option to study in a classroom setting.
AAA RoadWise Driver
The AAA RoadWise is a defensive driving course for seniors aged 55 and older. It’s available online, but depending on where you live, you can opt for classroom instruction, too.
This training program promotes responsible driving practices, covering topics like:
- Traffic laws and regulations
- The impact of alcohol and medications on driving
- Distracted driving, aggressive driving, and road rage
- Defensive driving techniques
- Risk management strategies for mature drivers
- Technologies in modern vehicles
In California, AAA’s RoadWise includes an eight-hour initial course and a four-hour refresher course. The former costs $28.95, whereas the refresher course costs $24.95.
You can take one or both courses and submit your certificate of completion to your insurance carrier to receive a discount.
There’s also the option to sign up for on-demand video courses, which cover the same topics as the standard course. The cost of a monthly subscription is $20 per month, but you’ll be charged only $16.66 per month if you pay upfront for a year.
The NSC Mature Defensive Driving Course
The National Safety Council (NSC) has a defensive driving course for seniors aged 55 or older. Participants can study online at their own pace and, upon completion, apply for auto insurance discounts.
Once enrolled, you’ll learn how to drive more safely and respond to medical emergencies on the road. Other topics covered include:
- Risky driving behaviors
- Defensive driving strategies
- Vehicle safety systems
- Hazard recognition and control
- The three-second rule for a safe following distance
- Distracted driving and how to avoid it
- Impaired driving
- Collision avoidance
The NSC’s Mature Defensive Driving Course costs around $54, depending on where you purchase it. After you sign up, you have 365 days to complete the program.
How to Choose a Safe Senior Driving Class
Choosing a safe driving class for seniors isn’t easy, given the large number of options available. While most courses cover similar topics, each presents the information differently. Plus, such programs vary in length, format, structure, and price.
Not sure where to start? Below are some aspects to consider when comparing mature driver courses.
- Accreditation: Ideally, register for a state-approved course to ensure it checks all the right boxes. For example, Californians should look for programs recognized by the state’s DMV, such as the one we offer at Traffic Safety Institute. If a course is not accredited, your insurance carrier may not give you a discount.
- Class Format: Determine whether you feel more comfortable studying online or in person. The former option offers greater flexibility and convenience, while in-person classes allow for a more hands-on experience. Alternatively, choose a program that includes both online and classroom instruction.
- Senior-Focused Content: Senior drivers have unique needs. For example, they may want to address the age-related decline in their driving abilities or learn more about the latest safety features on modern cars. Our advice is to sign up for a program that covers current traffic laws, as well as age-specific challenges and solutions.
- Qualified Instructors: Make sure the course is taught by certified instructors with experience in senior driver education. They should have valid credentials and a deep understanding of age-related changes in driving performance.
- Flexibility: If you prefer online courses, choose one that allows you to study at your own pace. The system should automatically save your progress so you can resume learning where you left off.
- Ongoing Support: The best programs offer 24/7 support, including technical assistance. Ideally, you should be able to contact customer service by email, live chat, or via a ticketing system and get a reply within 12-24 hours.
- Customer Reviews: Read customer reviews and testimonials before you register for a course. These should be available on the company’s website and social media pages, as well as on third-party platforms like the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, or Yelp. For instance, Traffic Safety Institute has hundreds of customer reviews and an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 on Reviews.io.
- Price: A high price tag doesn’t guarantee quality. With that in mind, look for a mature driver course that fits your budget and has the features you need. Also, check the payment options and ask if there are any discounts available. In some cases, you may find discounts or coupon codes on third-party platforms.
Lastly, don’t hesitate to contact the course provider with any questions you may have. A reputable school should take the time to assist you and address your concerns. You could even ask for a sample lesson or an overview of the curriculum.
Final Thoughts
Completing a safe driving program can be an excellent way to refresh your knowledge and learn to address age-related challenges that can make driving more difficult. Plus, it’s an opportunity to lower your insurance premiums.
If you live in Florida or California, you can take our mature driving courses for free and pay only after passing the final exam. Our classes are 100% online and can help you save up to $300 on auto insurance per year for three years.
The courses are approved by the California DMV and the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), respectively.
- Our California mature driver course has 13 modules covering CA driving laws, regulations, and best practices. You can study at your convenience and, when you’re done, take a refresher test. We charge a flat fee of only $24.99, which covers the course materials, free audio read-along, 24/7 support, and a copy of your electronic certificate.
- The FLHSMV-approved mature driver course includes seven modules and a final exam with a 99% first-try pass rate. It includes easy-to-follow learning materials, audio read-along, ongoing support, and other perks – all for only $19.99, which you’ll pay after passing the test.
Ready to give it a try? Start our self-paced course for FREE to hone your driving skills and save big on car insurance.
FAQs about Safe Driving Classes for Seniors
Need more information? Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions.
What is the best defensive driving course for seniors?
Each course has distinct advantages, such as an easy-to-follow format, interactive lessons, or increased flexibility. However, no one program is best for everyone. That’s why you should assess your needs, compare the courses available to you, and pick one that checks all the boxes.
Start by looking for state-approved courses. See what’s included, read customer reviews, and go over the curriculum. Also, ask your insurance provider if they will lower your rates for completing the course you have in mind.
Is defensive driving the same as a driver safety course?
For the most part, yes. “Driver safety” is a broader term, but it is often used interchangeably with defensive driving in states where defensive driver courses are available.
In many cases, how these terms are used depends on the context. Technically, a defensive driving program is a type of driver safety course. Its aim is to teach drivers how to anticipate and respond to potential road hazards, with the goal of promoting safer driving habits and reducing accidents. Taking these courses can also reduce your insurance rates.
Is the AARP Smart Driver course the same as a defensive driver course?
No, they are not the same. The AARP Smart Driver course is a safe driving course for seniors, revolving around age-related changes and how they affect driving. It also serves as a refresher on traffic laws and regulations, accident prevention, and special driving situations. Defensive driver courses, on the other hand, are open to drivers of all ages who are looking to improve their driving skills, dismiss traffic tickets, and qualify for insurance discounts. They tend to focus on responding to potential hazards and emphasize accident prevention.
Is there a free defensive driving course?
Some organizations offer free defensive driving courses, but these only cover the basics and are not specifically designed for seniors.
A better option is to choose an affordable online course like the ones we offer.
At Traffic Safety Institute, we charge a flat fee of only $19.99 for our FLHSMV-approved mature driver course or $24.99 for our California mature driver course – and you pay nothing until you pass the final exam. Get started now.
