AARP does not sell car insurance directly, but it offers discounts through partner insurance companies

AARP itself is not an insurance company and does not underwrite or issue car insurance policies. Instead, AARP has partnerships with insurance carriers — primarily The Hartford and National General — that offer discounted rates to AARP members. When you buy through these partners using your AARP membership, you receive a member discount, but the actual policy is issued and managed by the insurance company, not AARP.

This distinction matters because your coverage, claims, and customer service come from the insurance carrier, not from AARP. AARP's role is to negotiate the discount and make the partnership available to members.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP partners with insurance companies like The Hartford and National General to offer discounted car insurance to members, but does not sell policies itself.
  • The discount typically ranges from 10 to 25 percent depending on your driving record, location, and the coverage you choose, though the exact amount varies by state and insurer.
  • You can contact partner insurers directly or through AARP's website to request a quote and see what discount applies to your situation.
  • AARP car insurance discounts are available to members age 50 and older who maintain an active AARP membership.

How the AARP car insurance partnership works

When you contact one of AARP's partner insurance companies — The Hartford or National General — you can mention your AARP membership to receive a member discount. You do not need a special code or referral; telling the agent or entering your membership number during the quote process typically triggers the discount automatically.

The insurance company then quotes you based on your driving history, age, location, and the coverage options you select. The member discount is applied to that quote. You pay the insurance company directly, and they handle your policy, billing, and claims.

AARP does not process your process, collect your premium, or manage your claim. The partnership is a discount arrangement, not a service arrangement.

What discount amounts you might see

AARP member discounts on car insurance typically range from 10 to 25 percent off the standard rate, though the exact percentage varies by state, insurer, your age, driving record, and the type of coverage you choose. Some states cap how much insurers can discount, and some insurers offer larger discounts in certain states than others.

The only way to know what discount you would receive is to request a quote from the partner insurer. The quote will show both the full rate and the discounted rate with your AARP membership applied. You can then compare that offer to quotes from other insurers to see whether the AARP discount makes that company competitive for your situation.

Which insurance companies partner with AARP

The Hartford and National General are the primary AARP car insurance partners. The Hartford has offered AARP auto insurance for many years and is available in most states. National General is also widely available. Both companies are licensed insurers and are regulated by state insurance departments.

AARP's website lists the current partners and allows you to request quotes directly. You can also contact The Hartford or National General independently and mention your AARP membership to see if they offer a member rate.

How to get a quote for AARP car insurance

You can request a quote in three ways: through AARP's website (which links to partner insurers), by calling The Hartford or National General directly and mentioning your AARP membership, or by visiting a local agent who represents either company. Have your current insurance information, driver's license, and vehicle registration ready when you request the quote.

The quote process typically takes 10 to 20 minutes by phone or online. The insurer will ask about your driving history, the vehicles you want to insure, the coverage limits you prefer, and your deductible choice. Once you provide that information, they will show you the quoted rate with and without the AARP discount applied.

What coverage options are available

AARP partner insurers offer the same coverage types as any other car insurance company: liability (which covers damage you cause to others), collision (which covers damage to your own vehicle from a crash), comprehensive (which covers theft, weather, and other non-collision damage), and uninsured motorist coverage (which protects you if hit by someone without insurance).

You choose your coverage limits and deductible amounts, just as you would with any insurer. The AARP discount applies to the premium regardless of which coverage options you select. Some insurers also offer add-ons like roadside information or accident forgiveness, which may or may not be discounted.

Comparing AARP insurance to other options

The AARP discount is valuable, but it is not automatically the lowest rate available to you. Other insurers may offer lower base rates in your state or for your specific situation, even without a membership discount. Comparing quotes from at least two or three other companies — such as State Farm, Geico, Progressive, or Allstate — takes 30 to 45 minutes and can show you whether the AARP partner rate is truly competitive.

Some insurers offer discounts for bundling home and auto insurance, paying in full upfront, or maintaining a clean driving record. Others have lower rates for certain age groups or in certain states. The AARP discount is one factor, not the only one, in finding the rate that works for your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be an AARP member to get the discount?

Yes. You must have an active AARP membership to receive the member discount from The Hartford or National General. AARP membership is available to people age 50 and older and requires an annual membership fee.

Can I switch to AARP car insurance if I already have a policy with another company?

Yes. You can request a quote from an AARP partner insurer at any time and switch if the rate is lower or the coverage better suits your needs. There is no penalty for switching insurers; your new company will handle the transition and your old policy will end on the date you choose.

Does AARP car insurance cover rideshare driving like Uber or Lyft?

Standard personal auto insurance policies, including those from AARP partners, do not cover rideshare driving. If you drive for Uber, Lyft, or similar services, you need a commercial or rideshare endorsement. Ask the insurer whether they offer this add-on and what it costs.

What if I have a poor driving record — can I still get the AARP discount?

Yes, but your rate will be higher than someone with a clean record. The AARP discount applies regardless of your driving history, but insurers charge more for accidents, tickets, or claims. The discount percentage may also be smaller if you have recent violations.

How often can I shop for a new rate?

You can request quotes whenever you want. Many people shop annually when their policy renews to see if a better rate is available elsewhere. Some insurers also offer rate reviews every six months, so ask about that when you get your quote.