You can join AARP online, by mail, or by phone in about 10 minutes

AARP membership is open to anyone 50 or older. You do not need to be retired. The standard membership costs $16 per year, and you can join through AARP's website, by calling 1-888-687-2277, or by mailing in a form. Most people finish the process online in under 10 minutes. Your membership card arrives by mail within two to three weeks.

You do not have to provide proof of age when you join — AARP verifies your birthdate against public records after you submit your process. If there is a mismatch, AARP will contact you to confirm. Once approved, your membership is active when ready, even though your physical card has not arrived yet.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be 50 or older to join AARP, but you do not need to be retired or employed.
  • Standard membership costs $16 per year and can be started online at aarp.org, by phone at 1-888-687-2277, or by mail.
  • Your membership becomes active right away after you submit your information, even if your physical card takes two to three weeks to arrive.
  • AARP verifies your age using public records, so you do not need to upload a birth certificate or driver's license.
  • You can use your membership number to access discounts and resources before your card arrives by checking your online account.

Joining online through AARP's website

Go to aarp.org and look for the "Join" button, usually at the top of the page. You will be asked to enter your name, date of birth, email address, and mailing address. Create a username and password for your AARP account — you will use this to log in later and view your membership details, access discounts, and manage your account settings.

After you enter your information, you will be taken to a payment page. AARP accepts credit cards, debit cards, and bank account transfers. Once your payment goes through, you will see a confirmation screen with your membership number. Write this number down or take a screenshot — you may need it before your physical card arrives. You can also log into your account anytime to find your membership number.

Joining by phone

Call AARP's membership line at 1-888-687-2277. A representative will walk you through the same questions asked on the website: name, date of birth, address, and email. They will also take your payment information over the phone. The call usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

Ask the representative for your membership number before you hang up. They will give it to you verbally, and you can use it right away to access some online resources and discounts. Keep the number in a safe place until your card arrives.

Joining by mail

You can request a paper membership form by calling 1-888-687-2277 or visiting aarp.org. Fill out the form with your name, date of birth, address, and email. Include a check or money order for $16 made out to AARP, and mail it to the address listed on the form.

Processing by mail takes longer than online or phone — typically four to six weeks from the time AARP receives your form. Your membership card will arrive after your process is processed. If you need your membership number sooner, you can call AARP after two weeks to ask if your process has been processed.

What happens after you join

Once your membership is active, you can log into your AARP account at aarp.org using the username and password you created. Your account shows your membership number, renewal date, and any discounts you are currently using. You can also update your email address, mailing address, or payment method from your account dashboard.

AARP will send you a membership card by mail. Until it arrives, you can show your membership number on your phone or print a temporary membership card from your online account. Many retailers and service providers accept either one. You will also start receiving AARP Magazine and emails about discounts, health information, and member events — you can adjust which emails you receive in your account settings.

Membership renewal and cost

Your membership lasts for one year from the date you join. AARP will send you a renewal notice by mail and email about 30 days before your membership expires. You can renew online, by phone, or by mail using the same methods you used to join. The renewal cost is the same: $16 per year.

If you do not renew by your expiration date, your membership will end and you will lose access to member discounts and resources. However, you can rejoin at any time by following the same steps as a new member. There is no penalty for letting your membership lapse and restarting.

Membership discounts and benefits

AARP membership includes discounts on hotels, rental cars, restaurants, and retail stores. You also get access to AARP's health and wellness resources, including articles about Medicare, prescription drugs, and caregiving. Some discounts require you to show your membership card or enter a code at checkout; others are automatic when you book through AARP's website.

The value of your membership depends on which discounts you use. If you book one discounted hotel stay or rental car per year, the savings often cover the $16 membership cost. AARP also offers a free tax preparation service for low-income members and access to AARP's online community forums where members share information about health, money, and retirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be retired to join AARP?

No. AARP membership is open to anyone 50 or older, whether you are still working, retired, or somewhere in between. Your employment status does not affect your membership or the discounts you receive.

What if I turn 50 before my birthday?

You can join AARP starting on the day you turn 50. AARP verifies your age using your birthdate, so make sure you enter it correctly when you join. If you are not yet 50, the website or phone representative will let you know you are not yet may be able to access.

Can I use my membership number before my card arrives?

Yes. Your membership number is active when ready after you join, and you can use it to access online discounts and resources right away. Many retailers will accept your membership number on your phone or a printed temporary card. You do not have to wait for your physical card to start using your membership.

What if I joined but never received my card?

Contact AARP at 1-888-687-2277 with your membership number and mailing address. They can check whether your card was sent and resend it if needed. In the meantime, you can continue using your membership number on your phone or print a temporary card from your online account.

Can I cancel my membership anytime?

Yes. You can cancel your AARP membership at any time by calling 1-888-687-2277 or logging into your account online. AARP does not charge a cancellation fee. If you cancel before your renewal date, your membership remains active until that date, and you will not be charged for the next year.