USAA SafePilot Review: Pros, Cons, & Alternatives (2025)
USAA already has very competitive car insurance rates, but members can save up to 30% more with SafePilot if they're safe drivers. Our USAA SafePilot review details how USAA's usage-based insurance program works, its benefits and drawbacks, and how it fares against similar offerings from other car insurance providers.
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Insurance and Finance Writer
Imani Francies is a finance and insurance writer who has strong media and communication skills with a bachelor's degree from Georgia State University. She began her writing career freelancing with various blogs and internships while working full-time as an early childhood educator. She has significant experience in both print and online media as a writer, editor, and author. She works efficient...
Imani Francies
Licensed Insurance Agent
Tim Bain is a licensed life insurance agent with 23 years of experience helping people protect their families and businesses with term life insurance. His insurance expertise has been featured in several publications, including Investopedia and eFinancial. He also does digital marking and analysis for KPS/3, a communications and marking firm located in Nevada.
Tim Bain
Updated January 2025
Our USAA SafePilot review shows that SafePilot is valuable for improving your driving habits and helping to prevent distracted driving. It is free and simple to use, and it can help you save money. USAA customers that use SafePilot offer good reviews. Even though the app is supposed to understand whether you are a driver or a passenger, users report this is one weakness of their app.
Stacking a military discount with a usage-based car insurance policy could mean big savings. That’s why it’s important to get multiple auto insurance quotes from multiple auto insurance companies before choosing USAA and signing up for SafePilot. Enter your ZIP code to compare quotes today.
- Everyone gets a 5% discount just for trying SafePilot
- Only military and their family members can get auto insurance from USAA
- Discounts of up to 30% are possible depending on your driving habits
USAA SafePilot Overview
SafePilot is an app offered by USAA insurance to promote safe driving habits resulting in up to a 30% discount on your next six-month policy renewal. The app determines whether you’re a certain type of bad driver or whether your safe driving habits warrant a discount.
Several of the top auto insurance companies collect your driving information for only 90 days, and you get only one chance to try for a discount. SafePilot is different.
SafePilot consistently monitors your driving behaviors and adapts your discount, which applies to your upcoming six-month policy term. This discount is subject to change from one policy period to another, depending on your driving habits and eligibility for discounts such as the USAA low mileage discount and USAA legacy discount.
You can use your USAA login to view each of your trips. SafePilot records your vehicle location, whether you’re driving during the day or night, hard braking, any hands-free calls you make, how often and for how long you handle your phone, and if you are the driver or the passenger.
Daniel Walker Licensed Insurance Agent
USAA emphasizes the importance of safe driving and leverages SafePilot to reduce instances of distracted driving. Additionally, it underscores the relevance of completing a USAA-approved defensive driving course to enhance driving skills and safety awareness. Furthermore, it acknowledges the elevated risk of fatal accidents occurring during late-night hours.
USAA is committed to this belief. In 2019, more than 3,000 people were killed, and about 424,000 were injured through some form of distracted driving, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports.
SafePilot especially encourages teen driver safety. If the entire family participates in these efforts to reduce distracted driving, you will have for sure earned your discount.
One downside, however, is that SafePilot is always collecting data in the background, no matter if the app is open or not on your smartphone. This can cause your phone battery to deplete, or you could use all of your data plan.
If you choose to use SafePilot, be sure to keep a phone charger in the car and consider an unlimited data plan with your cell service provider.
USAA maintains the privacy and security of your data, employing it exclusively for further research. Telematics is in its early stages, and USAA is actively enhancing the SafePilot program to collect data during accidents, ensuring the integrity of safe pilot insurance and the safe pilot program USAA.
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USAA SafePilot Eligibility
The USAA SafePilot car insurance discount is available to USAA members who meet the following criteria:
- USAA Membership: To be eligible for the SafePilot discount, you must be a USAA member. USAA membership is available to active-duty and retired military personnel, as well as their eligible family members. USAA also extends membership to certain honorably discharged veterans and cadets or midshipmen at U.S. service academies.
- SafePilot Enrollment: In order to participate in the SafePilot program and be eligible for the discount, you must enroll in the program through the USAA mobile app. The app is available for download on both iOS and Android devices, making it accessible to most USAA members.
- Safe Driving Habits: To qualify for the discount, you must exhibit safe driving habits and accumulate points through the SafePilot program. The number of points you earn will determine the percentage of the discount you are eligible for, ranging from 5% to 30% off your car insurance premiums.
The availability of the SafePilot discount varies by state and location. For specific eligibility details in your area, it’s best to check directly with USAA or refer to the program’s terms and conditions. This is especially important for those interested in USAA’s auto pilot program or seeking information on defensive driving course eligibility with USAA.
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What the SafePilot Discount Covers
The USAA SafePilot car insurance discount covers a wide range of safe driving behaviors, giving you multiple opportunities to earn points and potentially lower your car insurance premiums. Here are some of the key behaviors that may be eligible for the discount:
- Safe Speeding: If you consistently obey posted speed limits and avoid speeding violations, you may earn points towards the discount. By driving at safe speeds, you not only reduce the risk of accidents but also demonstrate responsible driving behavior, which is rewarded by the SafePilot program.
- Smooth Acceleration and Braking: Abrupt acceleration and braking can increase the risk of accidents and wear down your vehicle faster. The SafePilot program encourages smooth and gradual acceleration and braking, rewarding drivers who exhibit careful and responsible driving habits.
- Distraction-Free Driving: Distracted driving, such as texting or talking on the phone while driving, can significantly increase the risk of accidents. The SafePilot program promotes distraction-free driving by rewarding drivers who avoid using their mobile devices while behind the wheel.
- Nighttime Driving: Driving at night can be more challenging due to reduced visibility. The SafePilot program incentivizes safe nighttime driving by rewarding drivers who limit their driving during nighttime hours and exercise caution when driving in the dark. (See tips in our article, Light Pollution Effects on Your Life: Impact on Driving, Health, and Home Safety.)
- Mileage: The SafePilot program also takes into consideration the number of miles you drive. If you drive less frequently or keep your mileage low, you may earn points towards the discount. This is especially beneficial for drivers who commute less or use their vehicles sparingly.
Other USAA Insurance Coverage
USAA provides a range of insurance products to suit your needs, whether you’re focused on protecting your home, assets, or loved ones. Additionally, with features like the USAA driving app and monitoring your USAA driving score, you can further enhance your insurance experience.
- Home Insurance: USAA provides homeowners insurance with coverage options to safeguard your residence and belongings. Explore their policies to ensure your home is protected against unforeseen events.
- Life Insurance: Secure the financial future of your loved ones with USAA’s life insurance offerings. With various life insurance products, you can choose a plan that aligns with your long-term goals. USAA ranks No. 1 for the best whole life insurance.
- Property and Renters Insurance: If you’re renting a property, USAA offers renters insurance to protect your personal belongings. Additionally, property insurance options are available for various types of properties.
For comprehensive insights into these insurance options, you can visit the official USAA website or contact their customer service. It’s crucial to note that USAA provides tailored solutions to accommodate varying insurance needs, including features like the USAA defensive driving discount and the USAA Drive Safe app.
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USAA Insurance Rates Breakdown
Various factors influence the premiums you pay, and being aware of these elements can help you navigate the insurance landscape effectively. Below are key considerations for determining insurance costs:
Factors Affecting Car Insurance Rates
Factor Details
Claims History A history of frequent claims may lead to increased premiums. Maintaining a claims-free record can positively influence your insurance costs.
Comparison Shopping Obtain quotes from multiple insurance providers. Comparison shopping allows you to find the most competitive rates for your desired coverage.
Coverage Add-Ons Additional coverage options and policy add-ons contribute to the overall cost. Evaluate the necessity of add-ons based on your individual needs.
Credit Score In some cases, insurers use credit scores to assess risk. A higher credit score may contribute to lower premiums.
Deductible Amount Your deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in. Opting for a higher deductible often leads to lower premiums.
Discounts Inquire about available discounts. Factors like bundling policies, safe driving records, or loyalty to an insurance provider can lead to cost savings.
Location Where you live can impact insurance costs. Areas prone to natural disasters or high crime rates may result in higher premiums.
Payment Frequency The frequency at which you make payments (e.g., annual, semi-annual, monthly) can impact the overall cost of insurance.
Policy Limits The coverage limits you choose significantly impact your premium. Higher coverage limits typically result in higher premiums, but they offer increased protection.
Policy Renewal Regularly review and update your policy during renewal periods. Life changes and adjustments to coverage needs can influence costs.
Risk Factors Insurers assess your risk profile, considering factors such as your age, occupation, and lifestyle. Certain risk factors may result in higher premiums.
Type of Coverage Different types of coverage (e.g., auto, home, life) come with varying premium costs. Assess your needs to determine the appropriate coverage type.
Vehicle Information (for Auto Insurance) The make, model, and year of your vehicle, as well as its safety features, can influence auto insurance premiums.
By considering these factors, individuals can make well-informed decisions regarding insurance coverage, ensuring they strike a balance between adequate protection and manageable premiums.
Read more: How does the insurance company determine my premium?
USAA Discounts Available
Insurance providers often offer various discounts to help policyholders save on premiums. Understanding the available discounts can lead to substantial cost savings. Explore the potential discounts offered by insurance providers, including those available with USAA SafePilot:
USAA Insurance Discounts
Factor Details
Claims History A history of frequent claims may lead to increased premiums. Maintaining a claims-free record can positively influence your insurance costs.
Comparison Shopping Obtain quotes from multiple insurance providers. Comparison shopping allows you to find the most competitive rates for your desired coverage.
Coverage Add-Ons Additional coverage options and policy add-ons contribute to the overall cost. Evaluate the necessity of add-ons based on your individual needs.
Credit Score In some cases, insurers use credit scores to assess risk. A higher credit score may contribute to lower premiums.
Deductible Amount Your deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in. Opting for a higher deductible often leads to lower premiums.
Discounts Inquire about available discounts. Factors like bundling policies, safe driving records, or loyalty to an insurance provider can lead to cost savings.
Location Where you live can impact insurance costs. Areas prone to natural disasters or high crime rates may result in higher premiums.
Payment Frequency The frequency at which you make payments (e.g., annual, semi-annual, monthly) can impact the overall cost of insurance.
Policy Limits The coverage limits you choose significantly impact your premium. Higher coverage limits typically result in higher premiums, but they offer increased protection.
Policy Renewal Regularly review and update your policy during renewal periods. Life changes and adjustments to coverage needs can influence costs.
Risk Factors Insurers assess your risk profile, considering factors such as your age, occupation, and lifestyle. Certain risk factors may result in higher premiums.
Type of Coverage Different types of coverage (e.g., auto, home, life) come with varying premium costs. Assess your needs to determine the appropriate coverage type.
Vehicle Information (for Auto Insurance) The make, model, and year of your vehicle, as well as its safety features, can influence auto insurance premiums.
USAA also has an incredible garaging and storing car insurance discount. By understanding the discounts available and assessing your eligibility for these cost-saving opportunities, you can optimize your insurance coverage while keeping premiums affordable.
Evaluating Claims Handling: USAA SafePilot
Ease of Filing a Claim
USAA SafePilot offers a streamlined and convenient claims process for its customers. You can file a claim through multiple channels, including online, over the phone, or through the mobile app. This flexibility ensures that you can report incidents and initiate the claims process in a way that suits your preferences and schedule.
Average Claim Processing Time
USAA SafePilot is committed to providing efficient and prompt claim processing. While specific processing times can vary depending on the complexity of the claim and other factors, the company aims to resolve claims swiftly. Customers generally benefit from relatively quick claim settlements, helping them get back on the road without unnecessary delays.
Read more: How long does it typically take for USAA to process a car insurance claim?
Customer Feedback on Claim Resolutions and Payouts
The availability of the USAA SafePilot app for download, including the USAA SafePilot app for Android, has elicited positive responses from users. Many customers have commended the fairness and transparency of the claims settlement process facilitated through the app. USAA’s commitment to providing excellent customer service is evident in its handling of claims, contributing to the trust it has built among its members.
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Unleashing Innovation With USAA SafePilot Digital and Technological Features
Mobile App Features and Functionality
The USAA SafePilot app is a vital part of their innovative usage-based auto insurance plan. It comes with various features to help you improve your driving and understand your performance better. Continuously tracking your driving habits and offering instant feedback, it’s a handy tool for becoming a safer driver. Here’s a tutorial on downloading the USAA SafePilot app for iPhone:
Plus, USAA members can use the USAA body shop portal for managing auto repairs and take the USAA defensive driving course online for additional skill enhancement.
Online Account Management Capabilities
USAA SafePilot provides robust online account management capabilities, allowing policyholders to access and monitor their driving data, discounts, and policy information. Through the online portal, you can easily track your progress, view trip details, and manage your policy preferences, enhancing the overall user experience.
Additionally, USAA offers coverage for salvage titles, and while using SafePilot, it’s crucial to adhere to the hands-free calling policy to avoid infractions.
Digital Tools and Resources
USAA SafePilot goes further than just the app and online account management. It offers various digital tools and resources to help you understand your auto insurance better. These resources include educational materials, safety tips, and insights into your driving behavior.
USAA’s commitment to leveraging technology for safer driving is evident in its comprehensive digital offerings, including services like USAA mileage verification and USAA pilot insurance.
How USAA Ranks Among Providers
USAA SafePilot is an insurance program offered by USAA, known for providing financial services and insurance primarily to the military community and their families. The focus of SafePilot is on usage-based auto insurance, utilizing telematics to monitor driving behavior and offer discounts based on safe driving habits.
SafePilot is one of many programs car insurance companies are using to take advantage of telematics technology to reward safe driving behaviors:
Usage-Based Car Insurance Programs by Provider & Savings Amount
Insurance Company Potential Savings
Allstate Drivewise 30%
American Family KnowYourDrive 15%
DriveSense by Esurance 25%
Farmers Signal 10%
Geico DriveEasy 20%
Liberty Mutual RightTrack 35%
Nationwide SmartRide 10%
Progressive Snapshot 20%
Safeco RightTrack 35%
State Farm Drive Safe & Save 30%
Travellers IntelliDrive 15%
TrueLane by The Hartford 20%
USAA SafePilot 30%
While USAA’s SafePilot program is competitive with all of the major car insurance companies’ usage-based offerings — virtually matching State Farm’s Drive Safe & Save — here are its four most formidable competitors:
Allstate
USAA SafePilot competes with Allstate Drivewise in the telematics space, with differences in target demographics and military-focused benefits. See details in our article, Allstate Drivewise vs. USAA SafePIlot: Which Service Is the Best.
Geico
USAA SafePilot’s emphasis on safe driving aligns with Geico’s commitment to affordable coverage. Geico’s broad market presence may appeal to a wider audience. Read about the Geico DriveEasy car insurance discount.
Progressive
Progressive is a major player in the insurance industry, offering a range of products, including usage-based insurance through their Snapshot program. Check out our Progressive Snapshot Review: Pros, Cons, & Alternatives.
State Farm
USAA SafePilot’s telematics-based approach may attract those seeking personalized discounts, while State Farm’s agent-driven model appeals to customers valuing face-to-face interactions. Learn details in our State Farm Drive Safe and Save Insurance Review & Ratings.
The Bottom Line: USAA SafePilot
The USAA SafePilot car insurance discount is a unique program that rewards safe driving habits and offers the potential for significant savings on your car insurance premiums.
USAA SafePilot is a fantastic initiative that goes beyond just providing insurance discounts. It promotes safer driving habits and offers a tangible way to reduce premiums for responsible drivers. Policyholder highly recommend it to anyone looking to save on insurance while becoming a better and safer driver.
Kristen Gryglik Licensed Insurance Agent
By enrolling in the program and accumulating points through safe driving behaviors such as obeying speed limits, smooth acceleration and braking, distraction-free driving, and limiting nighttime driving, you can potentially lower your car insurance rates.
Read more: Best Car Insurance for UBI/Pay-Per-Mile
Additionally, USAA offers other discounts such as multi-vehicle, multi-policy, good student, defensive driving, and accident-free discounts that may further reduce your premiums.
Compare USAA’s rates with other top car insurance providers by simply entering your ZIP code into our free quote comparison tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is USAA SafePilot?
USAA SafePilot is a telematics-based program offered by USAA Insurance that uses a mobile app and a device plugged into your car to monitor your driving behavior and reward safe driving habits with potential discounts on your auto insurance premiums. For more on USAA insurance, take a look at some of our USAA insurance reviews & ratings.
How does USAA SafePilot work?
To enroll in USAA SafePilot, you need to download the SafePilot app and plug the device provided by USAA into your car’s OBD-II port. The app uses the device to collect data on your driving behavior, such as speed, acceleration, braking, and time of day. Based on this data, USAA assigns you a driving score, and you may be eligible for discounts on your auto insurance premiums if you score high enough.
What are the benefits of using USAA SafePilot?
Many would consider the biggest benefit of using USAA SafePilot to be getting discounts on your auto insurance premiums based on your driving score.
Other potential benefits include the ability to track your driving behavior and potentially improve your habits, customized feedback and coaching to help you become a safer drivers, and automatic accident detection and emergency response services.
Who is eligible for USAA SafePilot?
If you are eligible to get insurance coverage from USAA, such asactive-duty and retired military personnel, as well as their eligible family members, then you are eligible for the USAA SafePilot program. Additionally, certain honorably discharged veterans and cadets or midshipmen at U.S. service academies may also be eligible for the discount.
Are there any downsides to USAA SafePilot?
A drawback of USAA SafePilot is the necessity to grant the app permission to monitor your driving patterns, a feature that may unsettle certain individuals. Moreover, eligibility for a discount may be compromised if you exhibit aggressive driving tendencies or maintain poor driving habits, even with a good score in USAA SafePilot.
How much money can you save with USAA SafePilot?
The amount of money you can save with USAA SafePilot varies based on your driving habits and location. In addition to a 10% discount upon enrolling, on average USAA SafePilot participants can save up to 30% on their auto insurance premiums.
Is USAA SafePilot worth it?
If you’re a safe driver and don’t mind having your driving behavior tracked, then USAA SafePilot could be worth it. The potential discount could save you money on your car insurance premiums.
To get the best savings for the best coverage, your best bet is to do comparison shopping. Enter your ZIP code into our free online quote tool to receive quotes from multiple top-rated car insurance companies. Read details on how to get free insurance quotes online.
What do people say in USAA SafePilot reviews?
Feedback on the USAA SafePilot program is diverse, with numerous individuals acknowledging the chance to earn discounts and enhance their driving skills. Common threads in SafePilot USAA reviews touch upon privacy worries and grievances regarding technical glitches encountered while using the application.
How can I beat USAA SafePilot?
To outperform USAA SafePilot on your iPhone, it’s essential to consistently adhere to safe driving practices. This entails refraining from excessive speeding, abrupt braking, and distractions while driving. Furthermore, it’s crucial to uphold regular vehicle maintenance to mitigate any potential technical glitches that might impact your driving score.
Will my insurance rates go up if I don’t qualify for the discount?
No, your insurance rates will not go up if you don’t qualify for the USAA SafePilot discount. The program is optional, and your premium will be based on other factors, such as your driving record, age, and location. See our article, Understanding Credit: A Score That Impacts Everything from Your Cell Phone Bill to Car Insurance.
Can you cancel USAA SafePilot?
Does USAA SafePilot allow hands-free calling?
How do I qualify for other discounts offered by USAA?
Does USAA SafePilot account for passengers?
What are the pros and cons of USAA SafePilot?
What are some alternatives to USAA SafePilot?
What if USAA SafePilot is not recording my trips?
How does USAA SafePilot know when I’m not driving?
Could USAA SafePilot increase my insurance rates?
Why would my USAA SafePilot score drop for no apparent reason?
What are the common complaints about USAA SafePilot?
What constitutes a good driving score with USAA?
What exactly does USAA SafePilot track?
What is the USAA SafePilot program?
How much is USAA good student discount?
Does USAA SafePilot track my speed?
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