For drivers 55 and older

Turned 55? Your Car Insurer May Owe You a Discount You Never Asked For

A number of states make insurers offer a price cut to mature drivers who take a short safety course. Most policies renew without it.

By the BumperZen editorial team · Updated · 3 min read

Car on an open country road at sunset — Compare car insurance quotes in **your state**

Most discounts on a car insurance bill exist because a company decided to offer them. This one is different: in a group of states, it exists because lawmakers required it.

The idea is simple. If you are 55 or older and you complete a state-approved accident prevention (defensive driving) course, insurers in those states have to offer you a reduced premium. How long the course takes, how long the discount lasts and how big it is all depend on your state and on the company.

What it usually takes

The main driver is 55 or older
A course approved in your state, often available online
A completion certificate sent to your insurer

Two steps to see where you stand

Pick the age of the main driver on the policy below.
Add your ZIP code and compare quotes. When you talk to an insurer, ask what the course discount is worth with them.

How old is the main driver on your policy?

55–64 65–74 75+Under 55

Why it slips through the cracks

Insurers don't add it for you. You finish the course, you send in the certificate, and only then does the price change. Skip that last email and the next renewal arrives at full price, every term.

Ask these before your next renewal

1. "Do you have a mature driver course discount, and what is it worth?"

Amounts are not the same from company to company.

2. "Which courses will you accept?"

Choose one that your state has approved, or the certificate may not count.

3. "Is my base price still competitive?"

A discount on an expensive policy can still cost more than another company's standard rate. The only way to know is to compare.

Example old 6-month car insurance statement: 6 month premium $717.04, about $119.50 a month — *Example savings, for illustration only and not a quote. Your price depends on your driver profile, vehicle, ZIP code, coverage and insurer.

Example new 6-month car insurance statement: 6 month premium $354, about $59 a month or $13.62 a week — *Example savings, for illustration only and not a quote. Your price depends on your driver profile, vehicle, ZIP code, coverage and insurer.

Comparing is free, takes a few minutes and doesn't commit you to anything.

What happens after you click

You answer a short set of questions and see quote options from insurers that serve your area. If you like one, you buy directly from that company. If not, you keep what you have.

Switching mid-term is allowed. You can usually cancel your old policy at any point and get back the unused premium, though some insurers charge a cancellation fee. Start the new policy first so there is no gap in coverage.

Check quotes for drivers 55+

Free · No obligation · Takes about 2 minutes

Questions readers ask

Does getting quotes hurt my credit score?

Insurers generally run a soft credit inquiry for quotes, and soft inquiries do not affect credit scores. Some states restrict the use of credit in pricing altogether.

Will someone call me?

Only if you provide a phone number and agree to be contacted on the form. You can opt out at any time, for example by replying STOP to a text.

Can I change insurers before my term ends?

Yes. Check your policy for a cancellation fee, and have the new coverage start before the old one ends.

Do I have to switch?

No. If your current company still comes out ahead for the same coverage, you have simply confirmed your renewal price is fair.

Course discount rules come from state insurance codes and change over time. Confirm the details with your insurer or your state's department of insurance. This page is not insurance, financial or legal advice.