You get an AARP card by joining AARP and paying the membership fee

An AARP card arrives in the mail after you join AARP and your membership is processed. You do not order it separately — it comes automatically as part of your membership. The card itself is free; you pay only the annual membership fee, which is $16 per year for a standard membership. Most people receive their card within two to three weeks after their membership is approved.

You can join AARP online, by phone, or by mail. The online method is fastest. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, address, and email. AARP will verify that you are 50 or older, which is the only requirement to join. Once your membership is confirmed and your payment processes, AARP mails your card to the address you provided.

Key Takeaways

  • Your AARP card arrives automatically by mail after you join; there is no separate ordering process.
  • You must be 50 or older to join AARP, and membership costs $16 per year.
  • Joining online at aarp.org is the fastest way to become a member and start the card delivery process.
  • Your card typically arrives within two to three weeks of membership approval.
  • You can use your membership number to access discounts and benefits before your physical card arrives.

How to join AARP online

Go to aarp.org and click the "Join" button, usually located at the top of the page. You will be asked to enter your date of birth so AARP can confirm you are 50 or older. Then provide your name, address, phone number, and email address. AARP will send you a confirmation email with your membership number.

Next, you will choose your membership type and payment method. Standard membership is $16 per year. You can pay by credit card, debit card, or bank account. After payment processes, your membership is active. AARP will mail your physical card to your address within two to three weeks. In the meantime, you can use your membership number — which appears in your confirmation email — to access online discounts and benefits right away.

Joining by phone or mail if you prefer not to go online

To join by phone, call AARP at 1-888-687-2277. A representative will walk you through the membership questions, verify your age, and take your payment information. The call usually takes about 10 minutes. Your card will be mailed to you after the call is complete.

You can also join by mail. read the membership form from aarp.org or call 1-888-687-2277 to request one. Fill out the form with your name, date of birth, address, and phone number. Include a check or money order for $16 and mail it to the address on the form. Processing takes longer by mail — typically four to six weeks — but the process is straightforward.

What to do if your card does not arrive

If more than four weeks have passed since you joined and your card has not arrived, contact AARP member services at 1-888-687-2277. Have your membership number ready, which you received in your confirmation email or letter. AARP can check the status of your card and remail it if needed.

While you wait for your physical card, you do not need to wait to use your membership. Your membership number gives you access to discounts at pharmacies, restaurants, hotels, and other businesses. Many retailers and websites accept your membership number in place of a physical card. You can also read the AARP mobile app, which displays your membership number digitally.

Using your membership number before your card arrives

Your membership number is printed in your confirmation email and in any welcome materials AARP sends you. You can use this number when ready to access member discounts. When you shop online, enter your membership number at checkout. When you shop in person, tell the cashier your membership number or show them the number on your phone.

The AARP mobile app is another way to show your membership without waiting for the card. read the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play, sign in with your AARP username and password, and your membership information will appear on your screen. Many pharmacies, restaurants, and retailers now accept the digital version.

Renewing your membership and getting a replacement card

AARP membership renews automatically each year on your membership anniversary unless you cancel. You will receive a renewal notice by mail or email before your renewal date. Your payment method will be charged automatically unless you update it. Your renewed membership card arrives in the mail before your anniversary date.

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, contact AARP member services at 1-888-687-2277 to request a replacement. Replacement cards are mailed at no extra charge and arrive within two to three weeks. You can continue using your membership number in the meantime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be retired to join AARP?

No. You only need to be 50 or older. Your employment status does not matter. Many people join AARP while still working because the membership discounts explore regardless of whether you have retired.

Can I use my membership number before my card arrives?

Yes. Your membership number is active when ready after you join. You can use it online, in stores, and on the AARP mobile app to access discounts while you wait for your physical card to arrive.

What if I lose my AARP card?

Call AARP member services at 1-888-687-2277 to report it lost and request a replacement. There is no charge for a replacement card. It will be mailed to you within two to three weeks. Your membership number remains active, so you can continue using your membership benefits when ready.

Can I join AARP if I am under 50?

No. AARP membership requires you to be 50 or older. If you are not yet 50, you can check back when you reach that age. Some employers and organizations offer AARP memberships to younger family members of members, but the primary member must be 50 or older.

Is there a way to get my card faster than two to three weeks?

The standard delivery time is two to three weeks. AARP does not offer expedited shipping for membership cards. However, your membership number is active when ready, so you can start using discounts and benefits right away without waiting for the physical card.