01 Aug Greetings from the editor – August 2019

Greetings from the editor

Did You Know

Mature Drivers, 55 and older, may qualify for reduced premium rates for motor vehicle liability insurance?

The requirement includes completing an initial 400 minute mature driver improvement course approved by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).  To maintain eligibility a subsequent 240 minute mature driver improvement renewal course must be completed prior to the certificate expiration date.  Course instruction may be obtained in a classroom or non-classroom setting.

Contact your insurer.  State law requires insurance companies to determine the percentage of premium reduction and also allows insurers to refuse to give a reduced rate to those who have poor driving records.  Ask about your eligibility and the amount of discount prior to taking an approved mature driver improvement course.  The insurance company may also have a list of approved schools.

Time Commitment.  Actual classroom time is at least 400 minutes (close to 7 hours) of instruction for the initial course and 240 minutes of instruction for the renewal course, not including registration time, breaks, lunch periods, or issuance of completion certificates.  Please note that the initial course and the renewal course must be separate classes, held at separate times.

Fees. The maximum fee for the classroom or non-classroom course is $30.00 plus a $1.00 charge for a DMV certificate to be presented to your insurer as proof you have completed the course.

For more information and a list of DMV approved schools, check the website at www.dmv.ca.gov/vehindustry/ol/md_programs.htm.