Once a driver reaches 65 years old, their auto insurance rates usually go up. While seniors pose nowhere near the risk that teenage drivers do, auto insurance providers still consider drivers past a certain age to be a high-risk group.

At the same time, senior drivers are seen as being cautious on the road. Because of this, many car insurance providers offer discounts to help seniors lower their premiums. On top of discounts, there are other money-saving steps senior drivers can take to keep their auto insurance rates low.

This article will cover:

Car insurance discounts for senior drivers

Age is a factor in car insurance rates. As drivers get older, senses and reaction time weaken. This may lead to high-risk driving and higher car insurance premiums.

At the same time, most car insurance companies respect the experience that senior drivers have under their belt. Older drivers tend to be safer and slower behind the wheel. They also tend to spend less time on the road, which means less chance of being in an accident. Because of this, senior drivers have access to various discounts to help cut auto insurance costs.

Mature driver discount

Once you hit a certain age, usually between 55 and 65 years old, many insurers give a driver a “mature driver” discount. The amount of the discount and the age at which you get the discount varies from driver to driver. An auto insurer may have conditions to get the discount, such as completing a qualifying safe driving course.

Keep in mind that this discount relies on you continuing to be a safe driver. If you’re involved in an at-fault car accident, the discount could be removed.

Low-mileage discount

Older drivers, especially retired drivers, tend to spend much less time driving. This reduces the chances of being in a car crash. As a result, insurance companies may offer a low-mileage discount.

The amount of the low-mileage discount varies from company to company. Some companies provide lower car insurance rates based on your annual driving miles. These companies may provide greater savings in the long term.

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the number of accidents involving older drivers is decreasing as well. In 2019, 5,195 drivers 70 years and older were involved in fatal crashes. That’s 12% lower than in 1997.

Retired military discount

Some auto insurance companies have discounts tailored towards retired military veterans. For example, GEICO offers a 15% car insurance discount to retired military members. In most cases, USAA offers the best car insurance for military members and their families.

Car insurance providers with senior discounts

Many auto insurance companies have discounts for senior drivers, giving you plenty of options. However, it’s important to compare car insurance quotes from multiple providers to get a great deal. Some car insurance providers may have even lower rates than those with senior driver discounts. Some noteworthy auto insurers providing such discounts include:

Allstate

Allstate offers up to a 10% mature driver discount for drivers age 55 and older. Eligibility requires that you not have or be seeking full-time employment at the time.

Farmers

If you’re eligible, you may take advantage of Farmers’ defensive driver discount. Depending on the state you live in, the age criteria is usually 55 years old, however some states set the age minimum at 65. They also require you to complete an approved driver’s education course.

GEICO

If you complete an approved defensive driving course and are at least 50 years old, GEICO offers up to a 10% discount on your annual auto insurance premium.

Other ways to get cheap car insurance for seniors

Along with discounts, there are other options for seniors to lower their auto insurance rates. These include:

Third-party discounts

AARP offers a Smart Driver course that can give senior drivers a discount on their auto insurance in many states. This discount is valid for two to three years, at which time you can retake the course to get the discount again.

AAA also offers a defensive driving class for drivers age 55 and older that can get you a discount.

Compare quotes

Finding auto insurance coverage at your best rate is as important as any discount you may find. Compare quotes from multiple providers to find your best auto insurance.

See which car insurance discounts you qualify for as a senior driver.

Increase your deductible

Raising your car insurance deductible can be a great way to save money on your premium. The higher your deductible, the lower your rate. Of course, this means you'll have to pay more out of pocket in the event of a claim. 

Choose your car wisely

The less it costs to repair or replace parts of your car, the lower your auto insurance premium will be. Finding an affordable car goes a long way towards keeping your rates low. Also, make sure to take note of your car’s features. Security systems and safety features such as anti-lock brakes can get you a discount on your car insurance as well.

Bundle your insurance policies

Bundling your life or home insurance with your car insurance can save you money on more than just your auto policy. When you bundle your insurance, you can save money on both policies.

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