If you’re 55 or older and drive in Pennsylvania, taking an approved driver improvement course could lower your car insurance premium.
Pennsylvania law requires insurers to provide a discount of at least 5% when the policy and drivers meet the state’s requirements.
But there’s an important catch: simply turning 55 and taking the class isn’t enough in every situation. Pennsylvania has additional rules about who is named on the policy and your driving record.
Here’s how it works.
Who Can Qualify?
Pennsylvania’s Mature Driver Improvement Course program is designed for drivers age 55 and older.
To qualify for the state-required insurance discount, you’ll need to successfully complete a PennDOT-approved Mature Driver Improvement Course.
There’s also an important rule for policies with multiple named insureds: all named insureds must be at least 55 years old and must successfully complete an approved course for the policy to qualify under the state law.
That means if you’re 60 but another person named on your policy is younger than 55, simply completing the course yourself may not make the policy eligible for the state-required discount.
Because insurance situations vary, it’s a good idea to check with your insurer before enrolling.
How Much Could You Save?
Pennsylvania law requires a premium discount of at least 5% for qualifying policies.
The law specifies a discount of not less than 5% for all coverages on a qualifying vehicle.
Your insurer may have additional discounts available, so it’s worth asking what your total savings could be before you sign up.
What Is the Mature Driver Improvement Course?
The course is designed to help older drivers understand how aging can affect driving and to review current roadway rules and driving conditions.
PennDOT says there are no written or practical driving tests required by the program.
However, individual course providers may have quizzes or other requirements that you need to complete to receive your certificate.
Once you successfully complete an approved course, you’ll receive a certificate that serves as the basis for qualifying for the insurance discount.
How Long Does the Discount Last?
To remain eligible, you’ll need to complete an approved course every three years.
PennDOT offers a Refresher Mature Driver Improvement Course for drivers maintaining their eligibility.
Don’t treat the first class as a permanent discount. Keep track of when your course was completed so you know when it’s time to renew your eligibility.
It’s also a good idea to ask your insurance company how and when it wants your updated course certificate.
Can You Lose the Discount?
Yes.
Taking the course isn’t the only requirement for maintaining eligibility.
Pennsylvania law includes driving-record conditions that can affect your eligibility during the three-year period after completing the course.
For example, eligibility can be affected by a chargeable accident, a conviction for a moving violation, or certain DUI-related convictions or dispositions.
If something changes on your driving record, contact your insurance company to find out how it affects your discount.
How Do You Sign Up?
PennDOT maintains a list of approved Mature Driver Improvement Course providers.
The list includes organizations such as AARP and AAA, along with other approved providers.
Depending on the provider, course options may be available online or in person. Fees also vary, so compare your options before enrolling.
You can find the current list on PennDOT’s Mature Driver Improvement Course page.
Make sure you choose a PennDOT-approved provider if you’re taking the course specifically to qualify for the Pennsylvania insurance discount.
What Should You Do With Your Certificate?
After successfully completing an approved course, you’ll receive a certificate.
Check with your insurance company about how it wants you to submit proof of completion and when the discount will be reflected on your policy.
Calling your insurer before enrolling can also help you confirm that your policy meets the other requirements, especially if more than one person is listed as a named insured.
Is This Still Available?
Yes. Pennsylvania continues to maintain its Mature Driver Improvement Course program, and the insurance discount is established under Pennsylvania law.
The basic rule is straightforward: qualifying drivers and policies can receive a premium reduction of at least 5% after successful completion of an approved course.
Just remember that age and course completion aren’t the only requirements.
Relief Recap
Pennsylvania drivers age 55 and older could save at least 5% on qualifying car insurance premiums by completing an approved Mature Driver Improvement Course.
Before signing up, check who is listed as a named insured on your policy. Pennsylvania’s statutory discount generally requires all named insureds to be at least 55 and successfully complete an approved course.
You’ll also need to maintain your eligibility, including completing an approved course every three years and meeting the state’s driving-record requirements.
If you’re trying to cut other driving expenses, check out our guide to getting help paying for a driver’s license and our guide to vehicle registration assistance for additional ways to save.
