Driver Safety Class is Online in N.M. ; Completion May Trim Insurance

By ROSALIE RAYBURN Journal Staff Writer

New Mexico is the first state to offer an online driver safety course that qualifies those who pass to get cheaper car insurance.

AARP introduced a Web version of its driver safety program last fall. The program provides eight hours of instruction to sharpen road skills for drivers ages 55 and older.

By state law, drivers who pass get a certificate that entitles them to a discount of up to 10 percent on their car insurance. The certificate is valid for three years.

In late December, the traffic safety bureau of the state Department of Transportation accepted the online course as meeting requirements for the insurance discount, said Gene Varela, AARP's associate state director. "New Mexico is the first state to recognize the online course," Varela said.

Drivers of any age can take the course, but, by law, discounts are limited to those 55 and older.

Courses focus on driving habits and safety for older drivers, such as vision changes, effects of medication and interaction with other drivers.

Drivers can register to take the online course at www.aarp.org. The cost is $15.

Until recently, drivers had to attend the courses in person and that was sometimes difficult for working people or residents of rural areas, Varela said.

AAA runs a similar program; it charges $12.77 for members and $15.44 for others. Prices include tax.

Call 291-6611 during business hours or 291-6680 after business hours to register.

(c) 2007 Albuquerque Journal. Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. All rights Reserved.