According to a report from NHTSA, every year, over 6 million car accidents occur in the U.S. alone. That’s an alarming number, and while there’s no magic solution to bring this to zero, there’s something that can make a big difference: a driver improvement course.
These aren’t just for truck drivers who’ve gotten into trouble; they’re for anyone who wants to improve their driving skills, stay up-to-date with road safety techniques, and be better prepared for the unexpected.
As an owner-operator or truck driver, having the right tools and knowledge can help you confidently tackle any situation on the road. With a reputable driver improvement course, drivers can take advantage of advanced techniques and insights, significantly reducing their risk on the road and improving driver turnover rates.
What is a driver improvement course?
A driver improvement course, often called a defensive driving course, is designed to sharpen your driving skills and reduce the risk of accidents. These courses focus on critical areas such as hazard perception and risk assessment.
These courses are for more than just those the court orders to attend. Many truck drivers voluntarily take them to refresh their skills, qualify for insurance discounts, or meet specific CDL requirements. The ultimate goal? To create safer roads for everyone.
Three reasons to take the driver improvement course
When most drivers think about a driver improvement course, they focus on the usual benefits—improving safety and their driving skills. While these are critical, there’s much more that these courses offer. They equip drivers with insights and tools that go beyond the obvious, addressing areas often overlooked. Here are four reasons why taking a driver improvement course is a smart investment for your career and personal growth.
-
Improved relationships with dispatchers and fleet managers
A successful trucking career isn’t just about what happens on the road; it’s also about teamwork and communication. A driver improvement course often emphasizes professionalism and interpersonal skills, teaching drivers how to communicate effectively with dispatchers and fleet managers. This can lead to fewer misunderstandings, smoother operations, and a better work environment.
-
Gain an edge in technology adoption
The trucking industry is becoming increasingly tech-driven, with tools like electronic logging devices (ELDs), advanced GPS systems, and fleet management software now essential for day-to-day operations. These courses often include discussions on these technologies, helping drivers familiarize themselves with the latest tools and trends.
These courses guide drivers who may feel intimidated by new systems, making technology adoption much easier.
-
You’ll know the art of saving time and money
Time and money are two of the most valuable resources for CDL drivers, and these courses can help you manage both more effectively. Many courses offer tips on fuel efficiency, such as avoiding excessive idling, maintaining steady speeds, and proper vehicle maintenance. Implementing these strategies can lead to significant savings over time.
These courses also provide insights into time management strategies, such as planning better routes and optimizing hours-of-service. The result? Faster deliveries, less downtime, and more earnings.
The entire course outline summarised
A driver improvement course goes beyond the basics, providing valuable insights and training that prepare CDL drivers for the challenges they face on the road. Here’s a quick summary for what to expect from the course.
Curriculum topics
-
Defensive driving techniques: You’ll learn to deal with reckless drivers, adverse weather conditions, sudden stops, and more. These techniques focus on proactive driving, helping you stay one step ahead of potential dangers.
-
Federal motor carrier safety regulations: Courses cover essential topics like drug and alcohol testing policies, hours-of-service rules, cargo securement, and more, ensuring you’re up to date with the latest standards.
-
Accident prevention strategies: Teach methods for maintaining safe following distances, proper braking techniques, and effective lane management.
-
Handling fatigue and stress: Helps you recognize the signs of fatigue and how to handle it.
-
Vehicle inspections and maintenance: Pre-trip and post-trip inspection checklists and basic maintenance practices to prevent unexpected breakdowns on the road.
-
Hazmat protocols: Covers safe handling procedures, emergency response techniques, and the importance of proper documentation.
Course formats
Driver improvement courses are designed to accommodate the busy schedules and different learning preferences of drivers. In-person classes, led by certified instructors, provide interactive learning experiences through group discussions, role-playing scenarios, and practical demonstrations.
Online courses, on the other hand, offer flexibility and self-paced learning, featuring video tutorials, interactive quizzes, and downloadable materials that drivers can access anytime.
For those seeking a blend of both, hybrid programs combine the convenience of online theoretical learning with the real-world experience of in-person practical sessions, offering the best of both approaches.
Duration and cost
Most driver improvement courses are designed to be efficient and manageable, taking between 4 to 8 hours to complete. Advanced courses may require additional time, depending on the content's depth and specific focus areas.
The cost of driver improvement courses, especially for obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), can vary significantly depending on the location, school, and program type. Typically, they range from $50 to $1000.
Companies that offer a driver improvement course
While many companies provide these courses, a few are among the top eight. Let’s examine each one in detail.
-
Smith System Driver Improvement Institute, Inc.
Fee: $500 - $700 (varies by location and course)
Offered: In-person, with custom on-site training for companies
States available: Nationwide
Smith System offers various driving courses, specializing in practical, behind-the-wheel training for CDL drivers. Their hallmark program, The Smith5Keys, teaches drivers to anticipate hazards, make better decisions, and improve fuel efficiency. Unlike many other courses, Smith System emphasizes real-world application through its DriverDirect training, which pairs classroom instruction with practical driving exercises.
The program also includes a customizable curriculum for fleets, allowing companies to address their specific safety needs. Smith System's courses have been adopted by numerous Fortune 500 companies, which makes it our No. 1 choice.
-
Driving Academy
Fee: $50 - $1,000 (depends on the course package)
Offered: Online, in-person, and hybrid
States available: Primarily New Jersey, but open to students nationwide
Driving Academy caters to Class A and Class B CDL drivers. The hybrid format allows drivers to complete theoretical portions online, followed by practical sessions in their modern training facilities.
Driving Academy emphasizes financial literacy for drivers. They incorporate sessions on managing trucking-related expenses, such as fuel costs and maintenance, helping drivers save money in the long run. This focus on financial planning is a rare and valuable addition to their driver improvement curriculum.
Their flexible course structure appeals to busy drivers who may not have the time to attend in-person classes full-time. The school’s programs are highly accessible, with payment plans and discounts available to make the courses more affordable.
-
SAGE Truck Driving Schools
Fee: $1,500 - $4,000 (depending on program length and location)
Offered: In-person only
States available: Multiple states nationwide, including Colorado, New York, and Texas
SAGE Truck Driving Schools offers personalized coaching tailored to a driver’s strengths and weaknesses.
Their driver improvement courses focus on accident prevention, route efficiency, and compliance with FMCSA regulations, but they also emphasize career growth by teaching advanced trucking techniques. SAGE integrates real-world scenario training into its curriculum, preparing drivers to handle challenges like extreme weather or high-traffic conditions.
Their facilities feature a wide range of modern equipment, and their partnerships with trucking companies mean many students are hired shortly after completing the program.
-
AARP
Fee: $19.95 for members, $24.95 for non-members
Offered: Online and in-person
States available: Nationwide
AARP’s Smart Driver course is specifically tailored to meet the needs of older drivers, ensuring they remain confident and safe on the road. This program offers a refresher on essential driving skills, current traffic rules, and defensive driving techniques.
Participants also learn practical tips on vehicle adjustments, like optimizing seat positions and mirror placements for comfort and visibility. Another major perk is the potential for insurance discounts upon course completion, with many insurance providers recognizing AARP’s program. AARP members benefit from discounted course fees, making it an affordable and accessible option for seniors.
-
DriveSafe Online
Fee: Starting at $24.95
Offered: Online only
States available: Nationwide
DriveSafe Online has earned recognition as the "Best Overall Online Defensive Driving Course" by Investopedia. This program caters to drivers of all ages, offering defensive driving skills applicable for ticket dismissal, point reduction, or securing insurance discounts.
The course emphasizes hazard recognition, safe driving strategies, and defensive techniques with interactive elements such as videos, quizzes, and real-life scenarios to keep the training engaging and practical.
-
American Safety Council (ASC)
Fee: $19.95 - $34.95, depending on the state
Offered: Online only
States available: Primarily California, with other state-specific programs
ASC offers a Mature Driver Improvement Program for older drivers seeking to maintain their driving skills. This DMV-approved course in California highlights the importance of adapting to age-related factors, such as slower reaction times, reduced vision, and hearing challenges.
Its state-specific customization sets ASC apart, ensuring that drivers receive training tailored to their local traffic laws and conditions. Topics include defensive driving, managing traffic congestion, and navigating adverse weather, helping mature drivers feel more confident.
-
National Safety Council (NSC)
Fee: $25 - $100, depending on the course
Offered: Online and in-person
States available: Nationwide
NSC is a leader in driver safety, with its Defensive Driving Course (DDC) serving as a gold standard in the industry. Designed for drivers of all experience levels, the program helps participants identify and manage hazards, prevent collisions, and address high-risk behaviors like distracted or aggressive driving.
NSC’s courses are uniquely structured around real-world driving scenarios, offering practical applications that resonate with CDL drivers and everyday motorists alike. The flexibility of online and in-person options makes it accessible nationwide, catering to individual schedules and preferences.
-
AAA Driver Improvement Program
Fee: $20 - $30 for members, varies by state for non-members
Offered: Online and in-person
States available: Nationwide
AAA’s Driver Improvement Program combines over a century of expertise in road safety with modern educational practices. This course is open to drivers of all ages, focusing on defensive driving techniques, situational awareness, and risk management strategies.
Participants receive tools to navigate better complex road situations, such as highway merges or heavy traffic, and strategies for remaining calm under pressure. Many states offer insurance discounts for course completion, and AAA members enjoy reduced fees.
The program’s flexibility—offering both online and in-person formats—ensures accessibility for a wide audience.
Better safe than sorry!
Enrolling in a driver improvement course is more than just a means to meet regulatory requirements or refresh your skills; it’s an investment in your future on the road. These courses provide valuable insights into defensive driving, regulatory updates, and effective strategies for handling challenges like fatigue and inclement weather.
Ultimately, taking a driver improvement course depends on your dedication to road safety, not just for yourself but for everyone sharing the road. It’s a step that reflects your professionalism, responsibility, and commitment.