Driver Education, DMV Insights & Safe Driving Resources
Lower Your Virginia Auto Insurance with a Defensive Driving Course
8 min read
Defensive Driving Tips
Feb 20, 2026
Virginia law allows auto insurance companies to offer premium discounts to drivers who voluntarily complete a DMV-approved driver improvement course. By completing an 8-hour defensive driving course with ABC Driving Improvement, you could save up to 10% on your auto insurance premiums for up to 3 years.
How the Insurance Discount Works
Under Virginia Code Section 46.2-492.1, drivers who voluntarily complete a DMV-approved driver improvement course are eligible for an auto insurance discount. The discount amount varies by insurer but typically ranges from 5% to 10% on your liability and collision premiums. The discount generally remains in effect for 2 to 3 years after course completion.
To claim the discount, simply send your course completion certificate to your insurance provider. Most insurers apply the discount at your next renewal. You can retake the course every 24 months to maintain the discount.
Which Insurance Companies Offer the Discount
Most major auto insurers in Virginia offer a defensive driving discount. While specific discount amounts vary, companies that commonly offer this benefit include GEICO, State Farm, Progressive, Allstate, USAA, Nationwide, Liberty Mutual, and Erie Insurance. Contact your specific insurer to confirm the exact discount percentage they offer.
How Much Can You Save
The savings depend on your current premium and your insurer's discount rate. For example, if you pay $1,500 per year in auto insurance and receive a 10% discount, you save $150 per year or $450 over three years. Compared to the course cost of $74.99, this represents a return of more than 5x your investment.
Who Qualifies
Any Virginia-licensed driver can take the course voluntarily. You must be at least 18 years old or have parental consent if under 18. The course can be taken once every 24 months for discount renewal. The discount applies regardless of your driving record, and both the policyholder and listed drivers may qualify.
Additional Benefits Beyond Insurance
When you complete the course voluntarily, you also earn 5 safe-driving points on your Virginia DMV record. These points can offset demerit points from traffic violations, helping you maintain a clean record. The course also provides practical defensive driving knowledge that makes you a safer driver on Virginia roads.
Ready to start saving? ABC Driving Improvement offers a 100% online, self-paced course that you can complete from any device. Enroll today and send your certificate to your insurance company to start saving on your premiums right away.
About the Author
ABC Driving Improvement Editors are deeply committed to road safety. With expertise in defensive driving techniques and traffic laws, they craft blogs that are not just informative but potentially life-saving. Their passion for safer roads extends beyond writing, influencing community programs and partnerships aimed at driving change. Trust our editors to guide you toward becoming a more responsible driver.
