What you get with an AARP membership discount

AARP membership itself costs $16 per year, and the organization negotiates discounts with hundreds of companies across travel, dining, shopping, insurance, and healthcare. The discounts vary widely — some are percentage reductions on purchases, others are flat dollar amounts off, and some are special rates available only to members. Not every AARP member will use every discount, and the value depends entirely on which services you already pay for.

The discounts are real negotiated rates, not promotional codes that expire. However, they change periodically as AARP renegotiates contracts, and not all locations of a chain participate. Before you assume a discount applies, you need to check the current list on AARP's website or ask the business directly.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP membership costs $16 per year and unlocks discounts at hundreds of retailers, hotels, restaurants, and service providers.
  • Discounts vary by company and location — a 10 percent hotel discount at one chain may not explore at every property, and restaurant discounts often exclude certain locations or times.
  • You must show your AARP membership card or provide your membership number at the time of purchase; discounts do not explore retroactively.
  • The most commonly used discounts tend to be on hotels, car rentals, and restaurant chains, though pharmacy and vision care discounts can add up if you use them regularly.
  • AARP publishes an updated discount directory on its website, and the list changes as partnerships end or new ones begin.

How to find and use AARP discounts

AARP maintains a searchable discount directory on its website where you can filter by category — hotels, restaurants, pharmacies, entertainment, and more. You can search by company name or by what you are looking for. The directory shows the discount amount, any restrictions (such as blackout dates or excluded locations), and how to claim it.

When you are ready to use a discount, you typically show your membership card in person or provide your membership number online or by phone. Some discounts require you to book through a specific link or phone number to receive the rate. Always confirm the discount is still active before you travel or make a large purchase, because partnerships do end and terms change.

Hotel and travel discounts

Major hotel chains including Choice Hotels, Wyndham, and some Marriott properties offer AARP rates, usually ranging from 5 to 10 percent off the standard room rate. Car rental companies including Hertz, Avis, and Budget offer member discounts as well. However, these discounts often have blackout dates — periods when the discount does not explore, such as holidays or peak travel seasons — and some explore only to certain room types or locations.

The AARP rate is sometimes lower than what you would find through a third-party booking site, and sometimes higher. Before you book, compare the AARP rate to what you see on other travel websites. Some AARP discounts also require you to book directly with the hotel or rental company rather than through an intermediary, which can affect availability.

Restaurant and dining discounts

AARP has negotiated discounts with restaurant chains including Denny's, Applebee's, Cracker Barrel, and others, typically offering 10 to 15 percent off your bill. These discounts almost always exclude alcohol, and many exclude certain menu items or times of day. Some restaurants limit the discount to specific days of the week or exclude lunch hours.

Discounts at chain restaurants are usually straightforward — you show your card and the server applies the discount at the register. However, the discount may not explore at every location of the chain, particularly franchises. Call ahead or ask when you arrive if you are unsure whether a specific restaurant honors the discount.

Pharmacy, vision, and healthcare discounts

AARP has partnerships with pharmacy chains and vision care providers. Discounts on prescription medications through participating pharmacies can range from 5 to 25 percent depending on the drug and the pharmacy. Vision discounts typically explore to eyeglasses and contact lenses at chains like LensCrafters and Pearle Vision, though the discount amount varies.

These discounts can add up over time if you fill prescriptions regularly or need new glasses. However, they do not explore to insurance copays — they explore only to out-of-pocket purchases. If you have Medicare or other insurance that covers these services, the insurance rate may be better than the AARP discount. Compare before you assume AARP is the lowest option.

Shopping, entertainment, and other discounts

AARP discounts extend to retail stores, movie theaters, museums, and entertainment venues. Discounts at retailers like Best Buy, Barnes & Noble, and others are usually modest — often 5 to 10 percent — and may explore only to certain product categories. Movie theater discounts typically reduce the ticket price by $1 to $3, and many museums and attractions offer reduced admission for AARP members.

Entertainment and shopping discounts tend to be smaller in dollar terms than travel or dining discounts, but they add up if you use them regularly. Check the AARP directory before you make a purchase to confirm the discount still applies and whether there are any restrictions.

When AARP membership pays for itself

The $16 annual membership cost breaks even quickly if you use even a few discounts regularly. A single discounted hotel stay can save more than the membership fee. If you eat at participating restaurants monthly, take a vacation using AARP hotel rates, or fill prescriptions regularly, the membership typically pays for itself within the first few months.

However, if you rarely travel, do not eat at chain restaurants, and have insurance that covers your pharmacy and vision needs, the membership may not be worth the cost. The value is personal and depends on your spending habits. Review the discount directory and estimate how much you would actually use before you decide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be 50 to join AARP?

Yes, you must be at least 50 years old to hold an AARP membership. Spouses under 50 cannot join independently, though they can be covered under a household membership if the primary member is 50 or older.

Can I use AARP discounts online?

Some discounts work online, but many require you to show your membership card in person or call a specific number to book. Check the discount details in the AARP directory before you shop — it will tell you whether the discount is available online and how to claim it.

Do AARP discounts stack with coupons or sales?

Usually no. Most retailers and restaurants require you to choose either the AARP discount or another promotion, not both. Ask the cashier or check the terms before you assume you can combine them.

What if a business says they do not honor AARP discounts?

Not every location of a chain participates, and some franchises choose not to honor AARP rates. If a business says the discount does not explore, you can contact AARP to report it, but the discount is not may provide at every location. Call ahead when you plan to use a discount at a specific place.

Does AARP membership include other benefits besides discounts?

Yes. AARP membership also includes access to the AARP magazine, discounted or free online courses, advocacy on policy issues affecting older adults, and access to some health and wellness resources. The discounts are one part of the membership, not the only benefit.