What is Defensive Driving?
Defensive driving may look a little different today than when we first got our licenses—and it's not just about wearing a seatbelt. Defensive driving uses key tactics to help you stay safer on the road, including:
- Managing your speed
- Expecting the unexpected—from other drivers and in general
- Keeping yourself alert and distraction-free
- Practicing a safe following distance
- Driving according to road and weather conditions
What are the benefits of defensive driving?
Now that you’re more familiar with defensive driving, let's get to know the benefits of practicing it. By taking measures to drive defensively, you can:
- Increase your and your loved ones' safety on the road
- Boost your sense of driving confidence, no matter your destination
- Reduce the likelihood of having a crash
- Adapt to changes that affect your driving ability
Why take a defensive driving course online?
Defensive driving is a no-brainer for your safety and your peace of mind. Which begs the question: How do you go about getting better at it?
By taking a defensive driving course online, you may:
- Learn from the comfort of your home and enjoy the benefits of defensive driving
- Qualify for a multi-year discount on your auto insurance premiums*
- Explore even more great reasons to take the AARP Smart Driver™ Course
How long is a defensive driving course online?
The AARP Smart Driver online course is 4, 6, or 8 hours total (depending on your state's regulations) and can be taken at your own pace, whenever it works best for you. You'll have 60 days (30 days in CT and NY) to complete the course once you register.
What People Are Saying About the Course
9/10
reported improving at least one behavior††
89%
would recommend the course to a friend††
4.2
average course rating†
AARP Smart Driver Online Course
Refresh your driving skills and become a safer, more confident driver!
Over 20 million Smart Drivers and counting
*Upon completion, you may be eligible to receive an auto insurance discount. Other restrictions may apply. Consult your agent for details.
**You are able to receive a refund if for any reason you do not complete the course or do not wish to continue it. You will have 60 days (30 days in NY and CT) from the date of registration to request that a refund be credited back to your credit card account.
†Data derived from online course participants. AARP Research. 2023 AARP Driver Safety Smart Driver™ Course Evaluation. July 2023
††Data derived from classroom participants who took part in a survey administered approximately 30 days after the course. Binette, Joanne. Smart Driver Classroom Course Evaluation. Washington, DC: AARP Research, July 2024.