Traffic Safety Driving Programs 

AAA has always been committed to making sure our members stay safe on the road. The AAA Safe Driving Programs are designed to help new drivers learn the rules of the road, practice driving safely, and ultimately pass their driver’s exam, but drivers of all ages can benefit from learning safe driving from AAA.

5-Hour Pre-Licensing Course 

Individuals who have obtained their legal permits from the New York Department of Motor Vehicles and want to prepare for the road test can take the AAA pre-licensing course at the AAA Hudson Valley office in Albany.

Not only is it a good idea to have professional road instruction before taking a driver’s license exam, but the DMV requires new drivers to take a pre-licensing safe driving class before taking the road test. After completing the five-hour course, students receive a certificate that is valid with the DMV for up to one year. The course is open to anyone, but AAA members receive a discount on the cost of the course ($10 off as of 2023). The registration fee for the course must be paid at least one week in advance.

Child Safety Seats 

Safe driver training covers many rules of the road, but the fact remains that most people are not experts on child safety seats, even when they use one every day. Some statistics suggest that just one out of five child safety seats are installed correctly, even though a child’s life could depend on proper installation. AAA members can make an appointment with a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician who is a member of the AAA Hudson Valley Traffic Safety Team to learn about proper car seat usage and how to install your own child safety seats correctly.

AAA members are also eligible for free child safety seat rentals. For up to 30 days, you can rent a child safety seat from AAA Hudson Valley at no cost. The child safety seats that are available are properly maintained, and a trained technician can also install the seat for you for the ultimate peace of mind.

Call 518-426-1000 ext. 2442 for an appointment.

Defensive Driving 

Drivers in New York state are eligible for Point and Insurance Reduction Programs (PIRP), whether they have had points added to their license due to traffic violations or simply want to reduce their insurance premiums through safe driver training. PIRP courses must be approved by the DMV for drivers to be eligible for benefits.

AAA Hudson Valley offers a six-hour defensive driving course that has been approved by the DMV. Drivers who complete the course may be able to reduce up to four points on their driving record and will receive a minimum of 10 percent reduction in their vehicle or motorcycle liability and collision insurance premium.

School Programs 

AAA Hudson Valley is dedicated to helping students learn important safety habits, including car and bicycle safety. We have developed several programs exclusively for school-age children, including

• Otto presentations 
• AAA School Safety Patrol Program 
• Safe School Bus Driver Awards 
• School Crossing Guard of the Year Awards

Senior Driving Programs 

Safe driving is a learned skill that improves with experience. However, driving ability can be affected by changes to our bodies as we age. AAA Hudson Valley is dedicated to keeping seniors driving as long as possible. We offer expert advice on how aging affects the ability to drive safely as well as guidelines for how to begin a conversation with an older driver about the need to work together on an action plan for maintaining mobility safely. When physical limitations do stop you from driving safely, AAA remains committed to helping you get around through the AAA Senior Transportation Mobility Planner.  

Teen Driver Programs 

Obtaining a driver’s license can be life-changing for teens, but teen drivers are more likely to be involved in a motor vehicle crash because of their inexperience and likelihood to engage in risky driving behaviors. Driving is a privilege as well as one of a teen’s first responsibilities as an adult. That’s why AAA Hudson Valley is committed to providing teens with the training and education they need by providing safe drivers’ courses to help them learn how to stay safe and responsible on the road.