HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has approved a 4-hour Mature Driver Improvement Refresher Course, which will allow drivers 55 and older the opportunity to hone their driving skills and continue to qualify for discounted vehicle insurance.
The refresher course will be offered to individuals who have completed the PennDOT-approved, 8-hour Mature Driver Improvement Basic Course within the last three years. Currently, individuals are required to complete this course every three years to continue to qualify for discounted vehicle insurance.
Under Pennsylvania law, drivers 55 and older are eligible to receive a five percent discount on their vehicle insurance by completing the basic course. The requirements for receiving this discount are that each individual named on the policy must be 55 years of age or older and must have completed the course within the past three years. Individuals should check with their insurance carrier for specifics of their program.
“PennDOT is pleased to authorize a refresher course for Pennsylvania’s mature driving population,” said PennDOT Secretary Allen D. Biehler, P.E. “The basic and refresher courses help mature drivers understand how aging affects driving abilities. They also provide insights about driving on today’s roadways, including recently enacted laws that affect all motorists.”
There are four state-approved organizations that conduct courses across the commonwealth. All approved courses address the specific safety needs of the mature driver. There are no written or practical driving tests. The course fees are moderate, but vary with each organization. Contact the following organizations to check fees and availability:
1. AAA
Check local offices for availability.
2. AARP
1-888-227-7669
3. National Safety Council
1-800-459-2556
4. Seniors for Safe Driving
1-800-559-4880
For more information about mature driver safety, visit PennDOT’s Driver and Vehicle Services Web site.