Online defensive driving courses have become a popular choice for people looking to improve their driving skills, reduce insurance premiums, or dismiss traffic tickets. The convenience and flexibility of online courses make them an attractive option for busy individuals who cannot attend traditional in-person classes. However, one question that many people have when considering an online defensive driving course is, “How long are they?” In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and provide some additional information on online defensive driving courses.
If you want to skip straight to our “overall best value” online defensive driver course, you can click here to get started
What is Defensive Driving?
Defensive driving is a driving technique that involves anticipating potential hazards and taking steps to avoid accidents. Defensive drivers are aware of their surroundings, maintain a safe speed, and leave enough space between vehicles to react in case of an emergency. Defensive driving is a skill that can be learned and developed over time, and defensive driving courses are designed to teach drivers these skills.
What is an Online Defensive Driving Course?
An online defensive driving course is a web-based course that teaches drivers defensive driving techniques. The course is self-paced, meaning that students can complete it at their own convenience. Most online defensive driving courses are approved by state and local authorities and can be used to dismiss traffic tickets or reduce insurance premiums.
How Long Are Online Defensive Driving Courses?
The length of an online defensive driving course varies depending on the state and the course provider. In general, most online defensive driving courses take between 4 to 8 hours to complete. However, some courses can be shorter or longer depending on the state requirements.
For example, in Texas, online defensive driving courses are required to be at least 6 hours long. In California, online defensive driving courses must be at least 8 hours long. However, some course providers may offer shorter or longer courses to meet specific state requirements or to accommodate students’ schedules.
It is important to note that most online defensive driving courses do not have to be completed in one sitting. Students can log in and out of the course as needed, and their progress is saved automatically. This means that students can complete the course over several days or weeks, depending on their schedule.
If you want to skip straight to our “overall best value” online defensive driver course, you can click here to get started
Why Take an Online Defensive Driving Course?
There are several reasons why someone might choose to take an online defensive driving course. Here are a few of the most common reasons:
Dismiss a Traffic Ticket
If you receive a traffic ticket, you may be able to have it dismissed by completing a defensive driving course. The specific requirements for ticket dismissal vary by state and jurisdiction, so it is important to check with your local court to see if you are eligible.
Reduce Insurance Premiums
Many insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who complete a defensive driving course. The amount of the discount varies by state and insurance provider, but it can be as much as 10% or more off your premium.
Improve Driving Skills
Even if you are not required to take a defensive driving course, it can be a great way to improve your driving skills. Defensive driving techniques can help you avoid accidents and stay safe on the road.
Meet Employer Requirements
Some employers require their employees to complete a defensive driving course as part of their job requirements. This is especially true for employees who drive company vehicles or who do a lot of driving as part of their job.
What Do Online Defensive Driving Courses Cover?
The content of an online defensive driving course can vary depending on the state and the course provider. However, most courses cover similar topics, including:
Defensive Driving Techniques
The course will cover various defensive driving techniques, such as maintaining a safe speed, scanning the road ahead, and leaving enough space between vehicles.
Traffic Laws and Regulations
The course will cover traffic laws and regulations specific to your state. This includes information on speed limits, right-of-way rules, and traffic signals.
Hazard Recognition
The course will teach students how to recognize potential hazards on the road, such as other drivers who are distracted or aggressive.
Emergency Situations
The course will cover how to handle emergency situations, such as a tire blowout or an accident.
Alcohol and Drug Awareness
The course may include information on the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Distracted Driving
The course may include information on the dangers of distracted driving, such as texting while driving.
Road Rage
The course may include information on how to handle road rage situations and avoid becoming an aggressive driver.
Vehicle Maintenance
The course may include information on basic vehicle maintenance, such as checking tire pressure and changing a flat tire.
If you want to skip straight to our “overall best value” online defensive driver course, you can click here to get started
How to Choose an Online Defensive Driving Course
If you are considering taking an online defensive driving course, here are some factors to consider when choosing a course:
State Approval
Make sure that the course you choose is approved by your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles or other relevant agency. This will ensure that the course meets the state’s requirements for ticket dismissal or insurance discounts.
Course Length
Check the course length to make sure it meets the state’s requirements for ticket dismissal or insurance discounts. Keep in mind that some courses may be shorter or longer than the minimum required length, so choose a course that fits your schedule.
Course Content
Review the course content to make sure it covers the topics you are interested in learning. Look for a course that covers defensive driving techniques, traffic laws, hazard recognition, emergency situations, and other relevant topics.
Course Price
Compare the prices of different course providers to find one that fits your budget. Keep in mind that some course providers may offer discounts or special promotions, so be sure to check for those.
Course Format
Consider the course format when choosing a course. Some courses may be text-based, while others may include videos or interactive features. Choose a course format that works best for your learning style.
Customer Reviews
Read customer reviews to get a sense of what other students thought of the course. Look for courses with high ratings and positive feedback from previous students.
Conclusion
Online defensive driving courses are a convenient and flexible way to improve your driving skills, reduce insurance premiums, or dismiss traffic tickets. The length of these courses varies depending on the state and course provider, but most take between 4 to 8 hours to complete. When choosing a course, consider factors such as state approval, course length, course content, course price, course format, and customer reviews. By taking an online defensive driving course, you can become a safer and more confident driver on the road.
If you want to skip straight to our “overall best value” online defensive driver course, you can click here to get started
