LAKEPORT, Calif. – It’s been many years since many older Lake County residents got their driver’s license. Yet the driving experience is significantly different from even a decade ago with changing vehicles, changing technology, changing road rules and even changing roadways.

Residents can refresh their skills and have the opportunity to save money on their car insurance with the new, enhanced AARP Smart Driver Course being offered from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 2, at the Lakeport Senior Activity Center, 527 Konocti Ave.

This five-hour refresher course is open to those who have taken the eight-hour course within the last four years.

It helps drivers age 50 and older stay current with driving laws and new technologies inside and outside of vehicles.

Participants will learn defensive driving skills, proven safety strategies and how to manage and accommodate common age-related changes in vision, hearing and reaction time.

“Since 1979, AARP Driver Safety has helped over 15 million drivers stay safe, educated and confident behind the wheel. Every driver can benefit from a refresher,” said Julie E. Lee, retired vice president and national director of AARP Driver Safety.

Attendance is required but there are no tests required to pass the course.

The course requires that the participant contact volunteer instructor Carol Deuel at 707-459-4928, and register for the course with application and payment before the course start date.

The course requires a minimum of 10 participants and a maximum of fifteen 15 participants.

The cost of the course is $15 for AARP members and $20 for non-AARP members.

There will be two 10-minute breaks but no lunch break. Participants can bring snacks to enjoy during class or bring a sack lunch.

Many participants may be eligible for a multi-year insurance discount after taking the course.

Participants are encouraged to check with their insurance agent to see if they are eligible.