Gaining a "Steer Clear Certificate" from State Farm can be a fantastic way for young drivers (and even some new adult drivers!) to not only enhance their driving skills but also potentially save a significant amount on their auto insurance premiums. It's a win-win, really. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from initial eligibility to receiving your certificate and enjoying the benefits.
Ready to hit the road to savings and safer driving? Let's get started!
Understanding the State Farm Steer Clear Program
Before diving into the "how-to," it's crucial to understand what the Steer Clear program is. It's a voluntary program offered by State Farm designed to reinforce positive driving behaviors, especially for newer and younger drivers. By participating, you engage in a structured learning experience that covers various aspects of safe driving, ultimately leading to a certificate of completion and, most importantly, a potential discount on your State Farm auto insurance.
Eligibility: Are You Ready to Steer Clear?
The first and most important step is to determine if you (or the driver you're enrolling) meet State Farm's eligibility criteria for the Steer Clear program. While exact requirements can vary slightly by state, here are the general guidelines:
Age Requirement:
Generally, participants must be under age 25.
However, in some states, new drivers over the age of 24 with less than three years of driving experience may also be eligible.
Valid Driver's License or Learner's Permit: You must possess a valid driver's license or learner's permit.
Clean Driving Record: This is a crucial one. You typically need to have no at-fault accidents or moving violations during the past three years (or for as long as you've been driving, if less than three years).
State Farm Insurance: All vehicles in your household must be insured with State Farm Insurance Companies.
Pro-Tip: Even if you think you might not meet all criteria, it's always best to connect directly with your State Farm agent. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date eligibility information specific to your situation and state.
Step 1: Initial Contact and Enrollment
This is where you engage with State Farm and begin your journey. Don't hesitate to reach out!
Sub-heading 1.1: Connect with Your State Farm Agent
Your State Farm agent is your primary resource for everything related to your policy and discounts.
Call Them: Pick up the phone and call your local State Farm agent's office. Explain that you're interested in the Steer Clear program and want to know if you're eligible.
Visit in Person: If you prefer a face-to-face discussion, schedule an appointment to visit your agent. This can be beneficial for getting all your questions answered thoroughly.
Inquire Online/Via App: While direct enrollment usually happens after speaking with an agent, you can often find initial information about the Steer Clear program on the State Farm website or within the State Farm mobile app. You can also text STEER to 42407 to get a direct link to the app.
Your agent will confirm your eligibility and provide you with detailed instructions on how to formally enroll in the program. They will likely explain the program's components and answer any initial questions you have.
Sub-heading 1.2: Download the Steer Clear App (or get the program materials)
The Steer Clear program is primarily conducted through the dedicated Steer Clear mobile application.
App Download: Your agent will likely direct you to download the "Steer Clear" app from your smartphone's app store (Google Play for Android or Apple App Store for iOS).
Manual Program (if applicable): In some rare instances, or if you don't have a smartphone, a manual program with printed materials (like a Trip Log and DVD) might be an option. However, the app is the standard and most streamlined way to participate.
Step 2: Completing the Program Requirements
Once enrolled, it's time to actively participate and complete the program modules. State Farm typically gives you six months to complete all program requirements from the start date.
Sub-heading 2.1: Course Training Modules
The Steer Clear app features interactive course training modules designed to educate you on various aspects of safe driving.
Watch Videos: The modules include educational videos covering topics such as:
Car basics and maintenance
Driving in bad weather
Driving on residential roads, city roads, and highways
Parking lot navigation
Bluetooth usage and distracted driving (texting, games, etc.)
Special driving situations
Take Quizzes: After each lesson or video, you'll typically be required to take short quizzes to test your understanding of the material. Pay attention to ensure you grasp the concepts!
Driving Scenarios: The app may present simulated driving scenarios to help you apply what you've learned.
Sub-heading 2.2: Practice Driving (Trip Logging)
This is where you put your learning into practice on the road. The app will track your driving.
Minimum Driving Hours/Trips: The program requires you to complete a specific amount of practice driving. Generally:
5 hours of driving within at least 10 trips for drivers aged 19-24 and new drivers over 24 with less than 3 years of experience.
20 trips for drivers under age 19.
App-Based Tracking: The Steer Clear app uses your phone's GPS and sensors to automatically track your trips. It will monitor and provide feedback on your driving habits, including:
Braking
Acceleration
Cornering
Phone Distraction (this is a big one!)
Speed (exceeding the speed limit by 8 mph or more)
Mentor Involvement (for some ages):
For drivers under age 19, 15 of those 20 trips must be supervised by a licensed driver over 25. If you have a learner's permit, all 20 trips must be supervised.
Mentors can use a separate login within the app to track progress and provide feedback.
Focus on Safe Driving Habits: The goal is to consistently demonstrate safe driving behaviors. The app will provide feedback, and you should strive to improve your scores over time. Remember, this isn't just about getting the certificate; it's about becoming a better, safer driver.
Sub-heading 2.3: Self-Assessments and Pledges
The program often includes self-assessment forms and pledges to reinforce your commitment to safe driving.
Pre-Log Driver's Self-Assessment: You'll likely complete an assessment before you begin logging your trips.
Post-Log Driver's Self-Assessment: After completing your driving requirements, another self-assessment helps you reflect on your progress.
Safe Driver Pledge: You may be required to sign a safe driver pledge, demonstrating your commitment to safe driving habits.
Parent/Driver Agreement (for under 19): If you're under 19, a parent/driver agreement will likely need to be completed and signed.
Step 3: Receiving Your Steer Clear Certificate
Once you've successfully completed all the required modules, driving hours/trips, and assessments within the six-month timeframe, the exciting part happens!
Sub-heading 3.1: In-App Certificate of Completion
The Steer Clear app will notify you when you've successfully completed the program.
You will be awarded a certificate of completion directly within the app.
This certificate serves as official proof of your successful completion of the Steer Clear program.
Sub-heading 3.2: Submitting Your Certificate to State Farm
To actually receive the discount on your insurance, you need to ensure State Farm receives your certificate.
Direct Submission from App: The app often has a feature to send your certificate directly to your State Farm agent via text or email. This is the most convenient method.
Print and Deliver: You may also have the option to print the certificate and bring it in person to your agent's office.
Electronic Submission (if available): In some cases, your agent might provide a specific email address or portal for electronic submission.
Crucial Note: Make sure your agent confirms receipt of the certificate and that the discount is applied to your policy. It's your responsibility to follow up!
Step 4: Enjoying the Benefits and Maintaining the Discount
Congratulations! You've earned your Steer Clear certificate. Now, let's talk about the perks and how to keep them.
Sub-heading 4.1: The Steer Clear Safe Driver Discount
Premium Adjustment: Upon successful completion and submission of your certificate, you may be eligible for an adjustment to your State Farm auto insurance premium. This is the primary financial benefit of the program.
Savings Potential: While the exact discount amount can vary by state and individual policy, the Steer Clear program can lead to significant savings on your car insurance. Some sources suggest it can be up to 15% or more.
Long-Term Savings: As long as you continue to meet your state's eligibility requirements, you'll continue to receive the Steer Clear Safe Driver Discount.
Sub-heading 4.2: Reinforcing Safe Driving Habits
Beyond the financial savings, the Steer Clear program fosters a deeper understanding of safe driving practices.
Improved Skills: The structured training and feedback from the app can genuinely help you become a more cautious and skilled driver.
Reduced Risk: By adhering to safe driving habits, you naturally reduce your risk of accidents and violations, which benefits everyone on the road and can lead to even more savings in the long run.
Sub-heading 4.3: Maintaining Your Discount
To keep enjoying the Steer Clear discount, remember these key points:
Age Limit: Generally, the discount applies as long as you are under 25 and continue to meet program requirements.
Clean Driving Record: You must maintain a clean driving record with no at-fault accidents or moving violations. Any new incidents could lead to the removal of the discount.
Annual Review: State Farm may require you to confirm your eligibility annually, and in some cases, additional education may be required before turning 21.
Keep in mind: The discount isn't necessarily permanent if your eligibility changes. Stay in touch with your agent to understand the specific rules for maintaining the discount in your state.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 frequently asked questions about the State Farm Steer Clear program, with quick answers:
How to enroll in the State Farm Steer Clear program?
Contact your State Farm agent directly. They will confirm your eligibility and guide you through the enrollment process, which typically involves downloading the Steer Clear app.
How to download the State Farm Steer Clear app?
Search for "Steer Clear" in your smartphone's app store (Google Play or Apple App Store), or text STEER to 42407 to get a direct link.
How to complete the driving requirements for Steer Clear?
The Steer Clear app automatically tracks your trips. You need to complete a minimum number of driving hours and trips (e.g., 5 hours/10 trips for ages 19-24, or 20 trips for under 19) while demonstrating safe driving habits.
How to know if I'm eligible for the Steer Clear discount?
You must generally be under 25 (or a new driver with less than 3 years experience over 24), have a valid license, no at-fault accidents or moving violations in the last 3 years, and have all household vehicles insured with State Farm. Always confirm with your agent.
How to submit my Steer Clear certificate to State Farm?
Once completed, the Steer Clear app allows you to send your certificate directly to your agent via text or email. You can also print it and bring it to their office.
How to track my progress in the Steer Clear program?
All your progress, including course modules and driving trips, is tracked directly within the Steer Clear mobile application.
How to maintain the Steer Clear discount on my policy?
You generally need to maintain a clean driving record (no at-fault accidents or moving violations) and continue to meet the age and eligibility requirements set by State Farm for your state.
How to involve a mentor in the Steer Clear program?
For drivers under 19, a licensed driver over 25 can log in as a mentor within the Steer Clear app to supervise and track progress for a certain number of trips.
How to know how much I will save with the Steer Clear discount?
The exact discount amount varies by state and individual policy. Your State Farm agent can provide you with a personalized estimate of your potential savings.
How to get help if I have issues with the Steer Clear app?
For app-related issues, check the app's support section or contact State Farm's customer service or your local agent for assistance.