StateCover Guide
Glossary

Good driver discount

By Editorial team, last reviewed

Quick answer

A good driver discount, sometimes called a safe driver discount, is a lower price for drivers with a clean record, meaning no or few accidents, claims and traffic violations. In most states it is up to each insurer, but California requires every auto insurer to offer one.

How it works

  • Most states: each company sets its own discounts. Texas, for example, lists a discount for having no claims and a good driving record among those insurers may offer. The look-back period, what disqualifies you and the size of the discount vary by company.
  • California: every auto insurer must offer coverage to Good Drivers. You qualify if you have been licensed for at least 3 consecutive years and have no more than 1 point on your driving record, among other conditions. Good Driver rates must be at least 20% lower than the same company's rates for drivers who do not qualify.

A ticket or an at-fault accident can cost you the discount as well as add a surcharge, so the total price effect can be larger than the surcharge alone. Ask your insurer what would remove the discount and for how long, and compare discounts when you shop for car insurance quotes.

Sources

Last reviewed by the StateCover Guide editorial team. See our editorial policy. Spotted an error? Tell us.