AAA membership costs between $56 and $132 per year depending on membership tier and your location
The American Automobile Association (AAA) offers three main membership levels: Basic, Plus, and Premier. Basic membership runs roughly $56 to $70 annually. Plus membership costs between $85 and $110 per year. Premier membership, the highest tier, ranges from $120 to $132 per year. These prices vary by state because each AAA club sets its own rates — the organization operates as a federation of regional clubs rather than a single national entity.
The price difference reflects the distance you can be towed for free. Basic covers 7 miles, Plus covers 100 miles, and Premier covers 200 miles. If you live in a rural area or far from repair shops, the higher tiers may save you money on a single tow. Most urban members find Basic or Plus sufficient.
AAA also offers multi-year discounts. Paying for two or three years upfront typically costs less per year than renewing annually. Family memberships that cover multiple household members cost more but spread the per-person expense lower than individual memberships.
Key Takeaways
- Basic membership costs $56–$70 per year and includes 7-mile free towing; Plus costs $85–$110 with 100-mile towing; Premier costs $120–$132 with 200-mile towing.
- Prices vary by state because AAA is a federation of regional clubs, each setting its own rates.
- All membership tiers include roadside information for lockouts, battery service, fuel delivery, and flat tire changes at no extra charge.
- Multi-year memberships and family plans offer lower per-year costs than annual individual renewals.
- Your actual cost depends on which AAA club serves your state and whether you join during a promotional period.
What roadside services come with every AAA tier
Regardless of which membership level you choose, all three tiers include the same roadside information services. AAA will dispatch a technician to unlock your car if you are locked out, replace a dead battery, deliver fuel if you run out of gas, and change a flat tire. These services are included in your membership fee with no per-call charge.
The only difference between tiers is towing distance. If your car breaks down within the covered distance, AAA tows it to a repair shop at no cost. Beyond that distance, you pay the tow truck operator directly. Some members upgrade to Premier specifically because they commute long distances or live far from reliable repair facilities.
AAA also provides travel discounts at hotels, restaurants, and attractions, though these vary by location and change seasonally. Member discounts on car insurance are available through partner insurers, but the discount amount depends on which insurer you use and your driving record.
How to find the exact price for your state
Because each AAA club sets its own membership fees, the cost in California differs from the cost in Texas or New York. The fastest way to find your state's current price is to visit the AAA website, enter your zip code, and view the membership options for your local club. This shows you the exact rates your club charges and any current promotions.
Many AAA clubs run seasonal promotions, particularly in fall and winter when more people renew or join. These promotions might waive the joining fee, offer a discount on the first year, or bundle multiple memberships at a reduced rate. Checking during these periods can lower your actual cost below the standard annual rate.
If you are already a member, your renewal notice will show your club's current rates. If you are considering joining, contact your local club directly or check online before committing — some clubs offer discounts for paying multiple years upfront or for enrolling through your employer.
Employer and group discounts on AAA membership
Many employers negotiate group rates with AAA, allowing employees to join at a discount. The discount amount varies widely — some employers find 10 to 15 percent off the standard rate, while others negotiate deeper discounts. Ask your human resources or benefits department whether AAA membership is available through your workplace.
Credit unions and some banks also offer AAA membership discounts to their members. If you belong to a credit union, check whether they have a partnership with AAA. Some offer the first year free or at a steep discount as a member benefit.
Alumni associations from colleges and universities sometimes negotiate AAA discounts for graduates. If you attended a four-year university, contact your alumni association to ask whether this benefit is available. The discount is usually modest but worth checking before paying full price.
When membership renewal happens and how to manage it
AAA memberships run for one year from the date you join or renew. Your membership card will show an expiration date. About 30 days before that date, AAA will send you a renewal notice by mail or email, depending on your contact preferences.
You can renew online through your AAA account, by phone with a representative, or by mail using the renewal notice. Renewing online is usually fastest and may offer a small discount compared to phone or mail renewal. If you renew before your membership expires, there is no gap in coverage.
If your membership lapses, you can rejoin at any time by paying the current membership fee. There is no penalty for letting it expire, though you will lose coverage during the gap. Some members let their membership lapse for a year or two and rejoin later without issue.
Comparing AAA membership to other roadside information options
AAA is not the only roadside information provider. Some car insurance policies include roadside information as an add-on for $5 to $15 per year. Others offer it free as part of comprehensive coverage. If your insurance already covers towing and lockouts, adding AAA membership may be redundant.
Credit card companies sometimes offer roadside information to cardholders at no extra cost. Check your credit card benefits guide or call the card issuer to see what is included. Some premium cards cover towing up to 100 miles, which overlaps with AAA Plus coverage.
Standalone roadside information services like Better World Club or roadside information through your bank may cost less than AAA in some states. However, AAA has the largest network of service providers, which means faster response times in most areas. The trade-off is usually between cost and coverage speed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my AAA membership in other states or countries?
Yes. AAA membership is valid nationwide at any AAA club and in Canada. If you travel internationally, some AAA clubs offer travel guides and discounts, but roadside information coverage outside North America is limited. Check with your local club about international coverage before traveling.
Does AAA membership cover rental cars?
Yes, roadside information typically extends to rental cars you are driving. The towing distance limit still applies — if you rent a car and it breaks down 150 miles from a repair shop, a Plus membership covers 100 miles and you pay for the remaining 50 miles. Some rental car companies also offer their own roadside information, which may overlap with AAA coverage.
What happens if I call AAA and I am not a member?
AAA will still dispatch help, but you will be charged a per-call fee. The cost is typically $50 to $100 for a tow, depending on distance and your location. This is why many people join AAA after a single breakdown — the membership pays for itself if you need roadside help even once per year.
Is there a joining fee separate from the annual membership cost?
Some AAA clubs charge a one-time joining fee of $10 to $20 when you first become a member, though many clubs waive this fee during promotions. Renewal does not include a joining fee — you only pay the annual membership rate. Check your local club's current policy before joining.
Can I cancel my AAA membership and get a refund?
AAA membership is typically non-refundable once purchased, though policies vary slightly by club. If you cancel within a short window after joining — usually 30 days — some clubs will refund your membership fee. Contact your local club directly to ask about their cancellation policy before joining.