AARP's Roadside information Through Its Partnerships

AARP itself does not operate a roadside information service. Instead, AARP members can access roadside information through partnerships with third-party providers, most commonly through an AARP-branded membership with AAA (American Automobile Association). The service covers things like towing, lockout service, fuel delivery, and jump-starts, but only if you purchase it as an add-on or through a bundled membership package.

The specific coverage and cost depend on which provider AARP partners with in your state and which membership tier you choose. AARP does not directly employ tow truck drivers or dispatch centers — the actual service comes from the partner company's network. This matters because response times, coverage areas, and what counts as a covered call vary by provider and location.

You do not get roadside information straightforward by being an AARP member. You have to actively purchase it, either as a standalone product or as part of a membership bundle. Many people assume membership includes it and then call for help only to find out they are not covered.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP offers roadside information through partnerships, most often with AAA, but you must purchase it separately — it is not included in basic AARP membership.
  • Coverage typically includes towing, lockouts, fuel delivery, and jump-starts, though the exact services and distance limits depend on your plan and state.
  • You can buy roadside information as a standalone product or bundle it with an AARP auto insurance quote or AAA membership.
  • The cost and response time vary by provider and location, so comparing what is available in your area before purchasing is important.
  • If you already have roadside information through your car insurance or another membership, check what you have before buying again.

How to Purchase AARP Roadside information

The most direct way is to visit AARP's website and search for roadside information or auto services. You will see options to get a quote or enroll in a plan. The process usually takes a few minutes and asks for your vehicle information, driving history, and zip code. Some plans are available to purchase when ready online; others require a phone call to complete enrollment.

You can also purchase roadside information through an AARP auto insurance quote. When you request a quote for car insurance through AARP, the form often includes an option to add roadside information to your policy. This bundles the two services together, sometimes at a lower combined cost than buying them separately.

Another route is to join AAA directly through AARP's partnership. AARP members sometimes receive a discount on AAA membership, and AAA includes roadside information as part of its standard membership. Compare the AAA route against AARP's direct roadside product to see which costs less in your state.

What Services Are Covered

Standard roadside information through AARP's partners typically covers towing (usually up to a certain mileage limit, often 7 to 100 miles depending on the plan), lockout service if you lock your keys in the car, jump-starts for a dead battery, fuel delivery if you run out of gas, and tire changes if you have a flat. Some plans also cover winching or extraction if your car is stuck.

What is not covered usually includes mechanical repairs beyond a jump-start, parts or labor costs, towing to a specific mechanic of your choice (the service picks the location), and calls for traffic tickets or legal issues. If your car breaks down and needs a new transmission, roadside information will tow it to a repair shop, but it will not pay for the repair itself.

The towing distance limit is important. A plan that covers towing up to 7 miles is nearly useless if you break down on a highway far from home. Plans that cover 50 to 100 miles are more practical for longer trips. Check the specific plan details before purchasing, because this limit varies widely.

Cost and Plan Options

AARP roadside information plans vary in price depending on your location and the level of coverage. Basic plans may cost $50 to $100 per year, while more comprehensive plans with longer towing distances can run $150 to $300 per year. Some plans charge per use instead of an annual fee — for example, $5 per call with a cap on how many calls you can make per year.

When you get a quote, you will see different tiers. A "basic" plan might cover towing up to 7 miles; a "plus" plan might cover 50 miles; a "premium" plan might cover 100 miles or more. The more distance you want covered, the higher the cost. If you drive mostly in your local area, a basic plan may be enough. If you take long road trips, a higher tier makes sense.

Some AARP members find that their auto insurance already includes roadside information at no extra cost. Before purchasing through AARP, call your insurance company and ask what roadside services are included in your current policy. You may already have coverage and not know it.

How to Use the Service When You Need It

When your car breaks down or you lock yourself out, call the roadside information number on your membership card or in your account. Have your membership number, vehicle information, and location ready. The dispatcher will ask what happened, where you are, and where you want the vehicle towed (if towing is needed).

Response time depends on your location and how busy the service is. In urban areas, help may arrive in 30 minutes to an hour. In rural areas, it can take several hours. The service will give you an estimated arrival time when you call. You do not have to pay anything at the time of service if you are a member — the cost is covered by your membership or plan.

Keep your membership card or account information in your car or on your phone so you can access it quickly. If you lose your card, you can usually look up your membership number online or call AARP's main line to confirm your coverage before calling for roadside help.

Comparing AARP Roadside information to Other Options

Your auto insurance may already include roadside information. Many insurance companies offer it as a standard benefit or a low-cost add-on ($3 to $10 per month). If you have it through insurance, you do not need to buy it again through AARP.

AAA membership is another common option. AARP members sometimes get a discount on AAA, so if you do not already have AAA, joining through AARP may be cheaper than buying AARP's roadside product separately. AAA also offers other benefits like travel discounts and emergency cash services that AARP's roadside-only plan does not.

Some credit card companies, particularly premium travel cards, include roadside information as a cardholder benefit. Check your credit card benefits before purchasing. If you have multiple sources of coverage, you only need to keep the one that covers the most distance or offers the best response time in your area.

What Happens If You Do Not Have Coverage When You Need It

If you break down and do not have roadside information, you will have to pay out of pocket for a tow truck. A typical tow can cost $75 to $150 for a short distance, and $200 to $500 or more for a long-distance tow. A locksmith call can run $50 to $200 depending on your car and location. These costs add up quickly, which is why many people find roadside information worth the annual fee.

You can always call a tow truck company directly without membership, but you will pay full price and have no may provide of response time. Having a membership card means you know the cost upfront and the service is already arranged.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is roadside information included in my AARP membership?

No. Basic AARP membership does not include roadside information. You must purchase it separately as an add-on product or through a bundled membership with a partner like AAA. Check your membership documents or log into your AARP account to see what services you actually have.

Can I use AARP roadside information if I am not the one driving?

Yes, as long as you are in the vehicle and have your membership card or account information. The service is tied to your membership, not to who is behind the wheel. If someone else is driving your car and you are not with them, they would need your permission and membership details to call for help.

What if I have roadside information through my insurance and AARP?

You can have both, but you only need to use one. Call whichever service is most convenient or has the better coverage for your situation. There is no penalty for having duplicate coverage, though it is wasteful to pay for two services you will never use at the same time.

Does AARP roadside information work outside my home state?

Yes, most plans cover you anywhere in the United States. However, response time may be longer in remote areas or states far from major service centers. Check your plan details to confirm nationwide coverage before relying on it for a long road trip.

How do I cancel my AARP roadside information plan?

Contact the roadside information provider directly using the number on your membership card or your account page. You can usually cancel online or by phone. Most plans do not charge a cancellation fee, though you may lose any unused portion of your annual payment depending on when you cancel.