You must be 50 or older to become an AARP member

AARP membership begins at age 50. That is the only age requirement — you do not need to be retired, still working, or a U.S. citizen. If you turn 50 this year, you can join whenever your birthday arrives.

The 50-and-up threshold has been AARP's standard for decades. It does not change based on where you live or your income. Once you meet that age, the main decision is whether the membership benefits match what you need.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP membership is open to anyone age 50 or older, whether retired or still working.
  • You do not need to be a U.S. citizen, but you do need a valid mailing address in the United States or U.S. territory.
  • Membership costs money — currently around $16 per year for the basic membership — so check what discounts matter to you before joining.
  • You can join online, by mail, or by phone, and membership typically starts within a few weeks of your payment being received.

What you need to join at 50

Beyond your age, AARP asks for basic information: your name, date of birth, mailing address, and email address. You will also choose a username and password to access the AARP website and member portal.

You do not need proof of age when you join online or by phone — AARP verifies your birth date against their records. If you join by mail, include a copy of a document that shows your date of birth, such as a driver's license or birth certificate.

How to join once you turn 50

You can join AARP three ways: online at aarp.org, by calling 1-888-687-2277, or by mailing a paper form. The online route is fastest — membership usually activates within a few days of payment.

When you join, you will pay the annual membership fee upfront. AARP also offers a two-year membership option at a discounted rate per year if you want to commit longer. Your membership card arrives by mail within two to three weeks.

If you join by phone, a representative can answer questions about what discounts are available in your area before you pay. This can help you decide whether membership is worth the cost for your situation.

What happens if you join before turning 50

You cannot join AARP before you turn 50. If you try to sign up online, the system will reject your process based on your birth date. If you call or mail an process, AARP will contact you to confirm your age and let you know when you become may be able to access.

Some people ask about joining on behalf of a parent or spouse who is already 50. You cannot do that — each person must join in their own name and meet the age requirement themselves.

AARP membership for people over 50 in different situations

Once you turn 50, your employment status does not matter. You can join while still working full-time, part-time, or after you retire. AARP membership is open to people who are self-employed, freelance, or between jobs.

If you are 50 or older and living outside the United States, you cannot join the main AARP organization. However, AARP has partnerships with some senior organizations in other countries — contact AARP directly to learn whether your country has an affiliated program.

Military veterans and current service members who are 50 or older join the same way as anyone else. AARP offers some discounts specifically for veterans, which you can review once you have a membership account.

Renewing your membership after the first year

Your AARP membership lasts one year from the date it starts. About 30 days before it expires, AARP will send you a renewal notice by mail and email. You can renew online, by phone, or by mail using the same methods you used to join.

If your membership lapses and you do not renew right away, you can rejoin at any time — there is no penalty or waiting period. Your age will still be 50 or older, so you remain may be able to access.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I join AARP at 49 if my birthday is coming up soon?

No. You must be 50 on the day you join. If you are 49, you will need to wait until after your 50th birthday. You can sign up the day you turn 50, and membership typically begins within days of your payment being processed.

Do I need to be retired to join AARP?

No. AARP does not ask about your employment status. You can join while working full-time, part-time, or self-employed. Retirement status has no effect on your membership or the discounts available to you.

What if I am 50 but do not live in the United States?

AARP membership is only for people with a mailing address in the United States or a U.S. territory. If you live abroad, you cannot join the main AARP organization, though some countries have senior organizations with AARP partnerships.

Can someone else pay for my AARP membership?

Yes. A family member or friend can pay the membership fee for you, but you must still be the one to join in your own name and provide your own information. You cannot have someone else create an account on your behalf.

How much does AARP membership cost at 50?

Annual membership costs around $16 per year, though AARP occasionally runs promotional rates for new members. A two-year membership is available at a lower per-year cost. Check the current price on aarp.org before joining, as rates can change.