The mature driver discount is one of the most reliable ways for seniors to save. Here is how it works and how to get it.
What Is the Mature Driver Discount?
The mature driver discount rewards older drivers who complete an approved defensive driving or refresher course. Offered through providers like AARP, AAA, and the National Safety Council, these courses cover safe-driving updates relevant to aging drivers. Completing one typically earns a 5-15% discount that lasts about three years, after which a refresher renews it. Many states legally require insurers to offer this discount to drivers over a set age, often 55, who finish an approved course. It's one of the few discounts you can actively earn rather than passively qualify for, making it a dependable way to lower your premium.
How Do Seniors Earn and Apply the Discount?
Earning the discount is straightforward. Choose a state-approved course from a recognized provider — many are available online and take only a few hours. Confirm with your insurer beforehand that the specific course qualifies for their discount. After completing it, submit your certificate of completion to your insurer to have the discount applied; it usually isn't automatic. The credit typically lasts three years, so set a reminder to retake the course before it expires. Costs for the course are modest and often recouped quickly through premium savings. 1-800-MEDIGAP can help you confirm eligibility and make sure the discount is applied to your policy.