You can get an AARP card as soon as you turn 50, and it arrives in the mail about two weeks after you join
AARP membership starts the moment you pay the annual fee — currently $16 a year — and your membership card comes by mail within 10 to 14 business days. You do not have to wait until your 50th birthday to join; you can sign up the day you turn 50. If you join online, you can start using your membership number for discounts right away, even before the physical card arrives.
The card itself is mostly a convenience. Most AARP discounts work with just your membership number, which you receive when ready in a confirmation email. The physical card is useful at pharmacies, hotels, and restaurants where staff want to see something in your hand, but it is not required to get the discount.
Key Takeaways
- You become may be able to access to join AARP on the day you turn 50, and membership begins as soon as you pay the annual fee of $16.
- Your membership number arrives by email when ready after you join, letting you use discounts right away without waiting for the card.
- The physical AARP card arrives by mail in 10 to 14 business days and is helpful but not required to receive member discounts.
- You can join online at aarp.org, by phone at 1-888-687-2277, or by mail using a form from an AARP publication.
- If your card is lost or damaged, you can request a replacement through your online account or by calling member services.
How to join and get your card
The fastest way to join is online at aarp.org. You will enter your name, date of birth, address, and email, then pay the $16 annual fee by credit card or debit card. Your membership number appears on the screen when ready and is also sent to your email. The physical card is mailed to your address within 10 to 14 business days.
You can also join by phone at 1-888-687-2277 (toll-free). A representative will walk you through the same information and process your payment over the phone. Your membership number is given to you during the call, and the card follows by mail.
If you prefer to join by mail, you can request an process form by calling the number above or look for one in AARP Magazine or other AARP materials. Fill out the form, include a check or money order for $16, and mail it to the address on the form. This method takes longer — typically three to four weeks total — because the form has to reach AARP, be processed, and then your card has to be mailed.
What to do if your card does not arrive or is damaged
If your card does not arrive within three weeks of joining, log into your AARP account at aarp.org and check your membership status. Your membership number should be visible there. If the card still has not arrived after four weeks, contact AARP Member Services at 1-888-687-2277.
If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement through your online account. Log in, go to your membership section, and select the option to replace your card. A new one will be mailed to you within 10 to 14 business days. You can also call Member Services to request a replacement by phone.
While you wait for a replacement card, you can still use your membership number for discounts. Keep your membership number in a safe place — it is printed on your original card, in your confirmation email, and in your online account.
Using your membership number before the card arrives
Your membership number is active when ready after you join, so you do not have to wait for the physical card to start saving. When you shop online, you can enter your membership number at checkout on participating retailer websites. At stores and restaurants, you can show the membership number on your phone — either from your confirmation email or from your AARP account — and staff will accept it.
Some places, particularly pharmacies and hotels, prefer to see the physical card, but most will accept your membership number if you can show it on your phone or recite it. If a business refuses to honor your membership number and insists on the physical card, you can ask to speak to a manager or note the business name and contact AARP Member Services to report it.
Renewing your membership and getting a new card
AARP membership renews automatically each year on your membership anniversary. You will receive a renewal notice by mail about 30 days before your membership expires. The notice includes instructions to renew online, by phone, or by mail. If you renew online or by phone, your membership continues without interruption.
When you renew, you do not automatically receive a new physical card unless yours is damaged or lost. Your existing card remains valid as long as your membership is active. If you want a new card when you renew — for example, if your current one is worn — you can request one when you renew, and it will be mailed to you.
Age requirements and who can join
You must be at least 50 years old to join AARP. There are no other age limits — you can join at 50, 60, 80, or any age after that. AARP membership is open to U.S. residents and U.S. citizens living abroad.
You do not have to be retired to join AARP. Many people join while still working because the discounts on travel, dining, shopping, and services explore regardless of employment status. Your membership is individual — each person needs their own membership and card, though household members can join at the same address.
What your membership includes beyond the card
Your AARP card gives you access to discounts at thousands of retailers, hotels, restaurants, and service providers. The card also comes with access to AARP Magazine, which is mailed to you monthly, and to aarp.org, where you can read articles about health, money, caregiving, and other topics relevant to people over 50.
Membership also includes access to AARP's online community, where you can join groups based on interests or location, and to some AARP programs like driver safety courses and tax preparation help. The specific benefits and discounts change, so it is worth checking aarp.org periodically to see what is available in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be retired to get an AARP card?
No. AARP membership is open to anyone 50 or older, whether you are working, retired, or anything in between. Your employment status does not affect your ability to join or use your card.
Can I use my membership number before my physical card arrives?
Yes. Your membership number is active when ready after you join and can be used for discounts online and in stores. You can show it on your phone or provide it verbally. The physical card is convenient but not required.
What if I lose my AARP card?
You can request a replacement through your online account at aarp.org or by calling 1-888-687-2277. A new card will be mailed within 10 to 14 business days. Your membership number remains active while you wait, so you can continue using discounts.
How much does AARP membership cost?
Annual membership costs $16 per year. This is the standard rate for most members. Some discounts on the membership fee may be available through certain employers or organizations, so it is worth asking when you join.
Can I cancel my membership if I change my mind?
Yes. You can cancel your membership at any time by logging into your account at aarp.org, calling 1-888-687-2277, or mailing a cancellation request. If you cancel within 30 days of joining, you may be able to get a refund of your membership fee.