New York Defensive Driving Course – DMV Approved Point & Insurance Reduction
This New York State DMV-approved Accident Prevention Course defensive driving class is designed to promote safer driving habits while allowing eligible motorists to qualify for point reduction and a potential insurance premium reduction, as permitted under New York law.
The course meets all New York State requirements and is conducted as a minimum of 320 minutes. Instruction focuses on responsible decision-making, hazard recognition, and defensive driving strategies intended to reduce motor vehicle crashes.
Jump to: Program overview · Benefits · Course content · Who should attend · Available dates · FAQ
About the New York Point & Insurance Reduction Program
The New York State Point & Insurance Reduction Program (PIRP) allows eligible drivers who successfully complete an approved defensive driving course to receive specific benefits under DMV guidelines.
- Up to four (4) points may be reduced from the total used by DMV to calculate administrative actions
- A 10% reduction in the base rate of automobile liability, no-fault, and collision insurance premiums for three (3) years, subject to insurer approval
Point reduction eligibility is limited to once every 18 months. All convictions and associated points remain on the motorist’s driving record.
Completion of this course does not affect fines, mandatory assessments, suspensions or revocations already in effect, or actions required by statute.
Why Take a Defensive Driving Course
This course is intended to reinforce safe driving behaviors and provide drivers with tools to better manage risk on New York roadways.
- Refresh knowledge of traffic laws and driver responsibility
- Improve hazard recognition and decision-making
- Reduce risk of future crashes and violations
- Qualify for point and insurance reduction when eligible
What the Defensive Driving Course Covers
The curriculum reflects the serious nature of operating a motor vehicle and follows New York State DMV guidelines for accident prevention training.
- Driver attitude, responsibility, and risk awareness
- Speed control, space management, and following distance
- Effects of alcohol, drugs, and fatigue on driving performance
- Distracted driving and modern roadway risks
- Defensive driving techniques and collision avoidance
- Sharing the road with pedestrians, cyclists, and commercial vehicles
Who Should Take This Course
- Drivers seeking point reduction under the New York PIRP program
- Drivers interested in qualifying for an insurance premium reduction
- Motorists looking to refresh defensive driving knowledge
The individual completing the course must be the principal operator of the insured vehicle to be eligible for insurance reduction.
Available Defensive Driving Course Dates
Space is limited. Select a scheduled course below to view details and reserve your seat.
Defensive Driving Course – Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the New York defensive driving course?
The course is a minimum of 320 minutes, as required by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles.
Does this course remove points from my driving record?
No. All convictions and points remain on your driving record. Successful completion may reduce the total points used by DMV for administrative action calculations.
How often can I receive point reduction?
Point reduction eligibility is limited to once every 18 months.
How does the insurance reduction work?
Successful completion may qualify the principal operator of the insured vehicle for a 10% reduction in the base rate of automobile liability, no-fault, and collision insurance premiums for three years, subject to insurer approval.
Questions or Registration Assistance
If you have questions about eligibility, scheduling, or registration, contact NY SAFE Inc. for assistance.
Phone: (631) 706-8700
Email: [email protected]
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