Is an AARP Membership Worth It for Drivers?

For many drivers aged 50 and up, joining AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) seems like a no-brainer—but is it really worth it? From exclusive AARP auto insurance plans to rental car discounts, roadside assistance, and special car buying programs, AARP promotes a wide range of perks tailored specifically for drivers. But how much do you actually save? Are the benefits better than those offered by other providers? And what should you consider before signing up?

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into AARP benefits for drivers, explore how AARP membership cost compares to the value it delivers, and reveal how these perks stack up against the competition. Whether you're a savvy senior looking for discounts on car insurance or simply wondering is AARP worth it?, this blog breaks down the numbers and the fine print.

Want more driver-friendly advice? Visit the NobleQuote Learning Center for coverage tips, repair costs, auto insurance help, and more.

What Is AARP and Who Is Eligible?

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization open to anyone 50 years or older. While best known for retirement planning and lifestyle resources, AARP also offers significant travel and auto-related benefits through its partner network.

Cost of AARP Membership

AARP membership currently costs:

• $16/year (auto-renewal)
• $12/year (with a 5-year plan)
• $63 for 5 years (non-renewal)

Compared to other auto club membership benefits, AARP’s low yearly cost is compelling—especially when weighed against the potential savings on auto insurance, car rentals, and roadside assistance programs.

AARP Benefits for Drivers: A Detailed Breakdown

Let’s explore what AARP actually provides to members who own or drive vehicles.

1. AARP Auto Insurance from The Hartford

One of AARP’s most advertised perks is their auto insurance program through The Hartford. It includes:

• Lifetime car repair assurance (at approved shops)
• New car replacement
• 12-month rate lock
• RecoverCare (help with household tasks after an accident)

Is it worth it? According to customer feedback on AARP car insurance reviews, many members save an average of $400+ per year, though actual savings depend on driving record, location, and vehicle.

2. AARP Roadside Assistance

AARP members can access AARP roadside assistance through Allstate, offering:

• Towing (up to 100 miles for Plus members)
• Jump starts
• Flat tire changes
• Emergency fuel delivery

Cost: Starts at $62/year for individuals, or $83/year for couples with AARP membership.

Compared to AAA or other roadside providers, AARP’s roadside assistance cost is competitive, especially for those who don’t need premium towing or RV coverage.

3. AARP Car Buying Program (via TrueCar)

The AARP Auto Buying Program, powered by TrueCar, helps members:

• Get upfront pricing on new and used vehicles
• See what others paid for the same model
• Access AARP discounts on new cars

Savings vary but can be up to $3,500 off MSRP depending on the make, model, and dealer incentives.

4. AARP Rental Car Discounts

AARP members enjoy discounts up to:

• 30% off base rates at Avis, Budget, and Payless
• Free vehicle upgrades
• Free additional drivers
• Discounted GPS rentals

This is ideal for road trippers or snowbirds who frequently rent cars while traveling. AARP’s rental car discounts are some of the most competitive in the industry.

5. Travel and Auto Bundles

Beyond cars, AARP membership also grants savings on:

• Hotels and airfare
• Cruises and travel packages
• Gas stations and oil changes at select partners
• Car repair discounts at select shops (varies regionally)

These combined AARP travel and auto discounts can compound into serious savings for retirees or frequent travelers.

AARP vs Other Senior Discounts for Cars

Not all senior auto benefits require an AARP membership. For example:

• AAA offers roadside assistance, insurance, and travel discounts.
• Costco members may receive special car buying perks.
• Veterans organizations often negotiate separate auto insurance and repair discounts.

Still, AARP brings everything under one low-cost membership, which makes it more streamlined for users seeking a mix of auto and lifestyle perks.

Pros and Cons: Is AARP Membership Worth It for Auto Benefits?

✅ Pros:

• Affordable yearly fee
• Wide variety of driver-specific benefits
• Exclusive discounts not available to the general public
• Partner offers across insurance, rentals, and maintenance

❌ Cons:

• Insurance is only through The Hartford (may not be cheapest)
• Discounts and availability vary by region
• Benefits require navigating multiple partner sites

Pro Tip: Always compare AARP auto insurance quotes with others before deciding.

Comparing AARP Auto Benefits to Other Providers

Final Verdict: Is an AARP Membership Worth It for Drivers?

If you're 50 or older and drive regularly, AARP membership benefits for travel and auto alone may cover the low membership cost several times over. From senior car insurance discounts to exclusive car rental offers, the value is real—but only if you actively use them.

The AARP auto program is ideal for drivers who:

• Want convenient access to savings on car insurance and rentals
• Need affordable roadside assistance
• Are shopping for a new car and want a better deal

If you're just looking for one benefit (like insurance), it’s still wise to compare options before committing. But for comprehensive value across multiple driving-related categories, AARP is absolutely worth it for many older drivers.

Conclusion

When it comes to auto savings for seniors, AARP membership provides one of the most well-rounded offerings in the marketplace. While you’ll want to shop around and compare pricing, the convenience of bundled benefits and exclusive discounts often outweighs the modest yearly fee. If you’re a driver over 50 wondering “is AARP worth it?”—the answer is likely yes, especially if you take full advantage of the perks.

Still unsure about your auto protection needs? Visit our Learning Center for expert tips, comparisons, and coverage options tailored to smart drivers like you.