10 Best AARP Car Rental Discounts

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AARP.org Verified • Avis • Budget • Payless • Expedia

Every verified AARP car rental discount available right now — exact discount codes, Pay Now vs. Pay Later savings, free perks, and plain answers to the questions members ask most. Independent. Unsponsored. Always in your corner.

💡 10 Key Things Every AARP Member Should Know About Car Rental Discounts

AARP members have access to some of the strongest standing car rental discounts in the United States — up to 35% off at Avis and Budget, 5% at Payless, up to 30% through the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia, and money-saving deals on Budget Truck Rental and Zipcar car sharing. Beyond the percentage savings, AARP members also receive perks like a free vehicle upgrade, one free additional driver, and credits toward future rentals. Here is everything you need to know, clearly explained.

1
What is the best AARP car rental discount available right now? Up to 35% off base rates at Avis (AWD A359824) and Budget (BCD Y508539) when you choose Pay Now at booking. Both deals run through June 15, 2026.
Avis and Budget, both owned by Avis Budget Group, offer identical AARP discount structures: 35% off base rates when you pay at reservation (Pay Now) or 30% off when you pay at the pickup counter (Pay Later). Both companies also include a free one-class vehicle upgrade, one free additional driver, and a 3% credit toward your next rental. The discount codes are AWD #A359824 for Avis and BCD #Y508539 for Budget. Both are applied automatically when you book directly through the AARP member links at AARP.org.
2
How do I actually use my AARP discount when renting a car? Three ways: book online through the AARP Travel Center at expedia-aarp.com, book directly at Avis.com or Budget.com using your AARP discount code, or call 1-800-675-4318 to speak with an AARP travel representative.
SeniorLiving.org confirmed all three booking methods for AARP car rental discounts. When booking online through the AARP Travel Center, your membership discount is applied automatically. When booking directly at Avis or Budget, enter your AWD or BCD code in the discount field at the start of the reservation form, not at checkout. By phone, the AARP Travel Center line at 1-800-675-4318 can handle your full reservation with the discount applied. For Payless, call 1-800-729-5377 or book at PaylessCar.com using promo code A057400.
3
Is it better to Pay Now or Pay Later when using an AARP car rental discount? Pay Now saves 5% more (35% vs. 30%) but typically requires prepayment with a cancellation fee if plans change. Pay Later gives 30% off with more flexibility to cancel without penalty.
The Pay Now rate at Avis and Budget locks in the lowest price — 35% off base rates — but the prepaid amount is generally non-refundable or subject to a cancellation fee if you need to change your plans. Pay Later at 30% off lets you pay at the counter when you pick up the car, offering more flexibility for travelers whose plans may shift. For travelers with confirmed flights and firm itineraries, Pay Now delivers the best savings. For anyone uncertain about travel dates or who may need to cancel, the extra 5% is not worth the risk of losing the prepaid amount. Both options still include all AARP perks: free upgrade, free additional driver, and 3% future credit.
4
Does AARP have discounts at Enterprise, Hertz, National, Alamo, or Thrifty? Not directly. AARP does not have standalone discount codes at these companies. However, AARP members can search and book these brands through the AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia for competitive rates.
AARP’s official car rental benefits page confirms no dedicated AARP discount exists at Enterprise, Hertz, National, Alamo, Thrifty, Dollar, or EZ Rent A Car. For those companies, AARP members should use the AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia at expedia-aarp.com to compare rates — Expedia negotiates competitive rates across dozens of rental companies, and AARP members may access savings up to 30% on select rentals. Always compare the Expedia rate against the Avis or Budget direct AARP rates to determine which is lower for your specific trip.
5
What free perks come with AARP car rentals beyond the percentage discount? At Avis and Budget: one free vehicle upgrade (compact through full-size), one free additional driver, a 3% credit toward your next rental, and loss damage waiver protection capping your liability at $5,000.
The AARP rental car perks at Avis and Budget are substantial. The free one-class vehicle upgrade means if you book a compact, you may receive a mid-size at no extra charge (subject to availability). The free additional driver benefit typically costs $13–$15 per day without AARP membership, so on a 5-day rental this alone saves $65–$75. The 3% future credit is applied to your next qualifying rental. Avis also provides primary liability coverage of up to $25,000 per person ($50,000 per accident, $10,000 property damage) at participating U.S. locations and limits loss damage waiver liability to the first $5,000 of damage without requiring LDW purchase.
6
How much does an AARP membership cost and how quickly does it pay for itself on car rentals? AARP membership costs $15–$16 per year. A single one-day car rental at $50/day saves $17.50 with the 35% discount — meaning the membership pays for itself in less than one day of renting.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports average car rental rates of $50–$80 per day. At the low end of $50/day with a 35% AARP discount, you save $17.50 on a single day. At $80/day, the savings are $28. AARP membership is currently $15 for the first year with automatic renewal, or $16 per year otherwise. On any rental of two days or longer, the membership cost is entirely recovered by the car rental discount alone — before accounting for the dozens of other AARP discounts on hotels, restaurants, pharmacy, insurance, and more. TheSeniorList.com estimates AARP car rental discounts save the average member approximately $105 per year.
7
What is the AARP Zipcar discount and how is Zipcar different from a regular rental? AARP members receive $40 off an annual Zipcar membership (regular $70) plus $40 in free driving credit. Zipcar is a by-the-hour or by-the-day car-sharing service that includes gas, insurance, and maintenance in the hourly rate.
Zipcar is ideal for short local trips — running errands, a day of appointments, or a weekend excursion — rather than multi-day travel. Zipcar cars are parked at set locations (often near transit, apartments, or business districts), and you reserve, unlock, and return the car entirely through their app. Gas, insurance, maintenance, and up to 180 miles per day are included in your hourly or daily rate. With the AARP discount, the annual membership drops to approximately $30 (from $70) and you receive $40 in driving credit, effectively covering your first several hours of driving free. Call Zipcar at 1-866-494-7227 or sign up online using your AARP member number.
8
Does AARP offer a discount for renting a moving truck? Yes. Budget Truck Rental (separate from Budget Car Rental) offers AARP members 20% off local or one-way truck rentals Sunday through Thursday, and 10% off on Friday and Saturday. A $10/day Physical Damage Waiver is also included.
Budget Truck Rental is a separate division from Budget Car Rental and uses a different account number. AARP members should provide account #56000058459 at the time of reservation to receive the truck rental discount. The 20% weekday and 10% weekend discounts apply to both local and one-way moves, making this an especially valuable benefit for seniors who are downsizing, relocating, or helping family members move. The included $10/day Physical Damage Waiver provides basic protection for the truck. Book by calling 1-866-470-7374 or online at BudgetTruckRental.com with the AARP account number.
9
Do I need to show my AARP membership card when picking up my rental car? Yes. At all AARP-partner rental companies, you must present a valid AARP membership card — physical or digital — at the counter to confirm your eligibility. Booking with your AARP discount code is not sufficient on its own.
AARP membership verification is required at the rental counter for all partner discounts. Payless explicitly states on their AARP page that your membership ID must be provided at pickup. The same applies to Avis and Budget. Your AARP digital membership card is available in the AARP app on your smartphone and is accepted in place of a physical card at all participating locations. If you do not have the app, call AARP at 1-888-687-2277 to request a replacement physical card before your trip. Failure to present your card may result in the discount not being applied, even if the reservation was booked with an AARP discount code.
10
Are there any hidden fees or exclusions I should know about before using the AARP car rental discount? Yes. The discount applies only to base time and mileage charges — not to taxes, airport fees, fuel charges, or optional add-ons. Blackout dates may apply, and car group X is generally excluded from AARP rates.
Every AARP car rental discount explicitly applies only to the base time and mileage portion of the rental rate. Taxes, airport concession recovery fees, vehicle license recovery fees, energy recovery fees, tire management fees, and surcharges are all additional and are not discounted. Optional products like Loss Damage Waiver (LDW), GPS, and fuel options are also not covered by the AARP rate. Car group X (premium/specialty vehicles) is explicitly excluded at both Avis and Budget. Holiday and blackout periods may apply, so always compare the quoted AARP rate against general promotions on the Expedia Travel Center, which sometimes offers deeper discounts on specific dates or locations.

Sources: AARP.org/membership/benefits/carrental/ (official page; all partners listed; 3 booking methods confirmed); AARP.org/membership/benefits/carrental/avis/ (AWD A359824; book by June 15 2026; 35% Pay Now; 30% Pay Later); AARP.org/membership/benefits/carrental/budget/ (BCD Y508539; book by June 15 2026; 35% Pay Now/Pay Later; 3% credit); Avis.com AARP page (free upgrade compact-full; 1 free driver; GPS $6.99/day; LDW $5,000 cap; liability coverage $25K/$50K/$10K); Payless.com AARP page (code A057400; 5%; 1-800-729-5377); SeniorLiving.org AARP car rental (3 booking methods; 1-800-675-4318); TheSeniorList.com AARP car rental Nov 2025 (~$105/yr savings estimate; Zipcar 1-866-494-7227; Budget Truck 1-866-470-7374; account 56000058459); NerdWallet rental discounts (AARP $16/yr; BLS $50-$80/day; Zipcar $25 app fee + $40 driving credit); BLS.gov CPI data (8% decrease May 2023-May 2024); AARP.org travel-discounts (Zipcar $40 off annual; Budget Truck 10%-20%); Budget.com AARP ($10 off $175+ 3-day thru June 30 2026)

🏆 10 Best AARP Car Rental Deals — Verified March 2026

⚠️ Always Verify Deals at AARP.org Before Booking

All discount codes, rates, and terms below are sourced from official AARP and rental company pages as of March 2026. Offers are subject to blackout dates, vehicle availability, and changes without notice. The AARP discount applies only to base time and mileage charges — taxes and fees are always extra. BudgetSeniors.com has no affiliate relationship with AARP or any rental company listed here.

Best Rate — Pay Now

Avis — Up to 35% Off with AARP (Pay Now)

🚗 Avis Budget Group • AWD #A359824 • Book by June 15, 2026

💰 35% off Pay Now • 30% off Pay Later • AWD code: A359824

✅ 35% off base rates when paying at booking

✅ 30% off base rates when paying at counter

✅ Free one-class vehicle upgrade (compact–full)

✅ One free additional driver per rental

✅ 3% credit applied to next rental

✅ GPS available for $6.99/day

✅ Unlimited mileage on most rentals

⚠️ Car group X excluded; blackout dates may apply

The Avis AARP partnership delivers one of the most complete car rental discount packages for members. The 35% Pay Now rate on base time and mileage is the headline figure, but the supporting perks add up to significant extra value. The free vehicle upgrade alone can mean the difference between a compact and a comfortable mid-size sedan on a long road trip. The free additional driver benefit, typically priced at $13–$15 per day at standard rates, is particularly valuable for couples sharing driving duties. Avis also provides primary liability coverage at participating U.S. locations (up to $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident, and $10,000 for property damage) and limits your liability to the first $5,000 of vehicle damage without requiring a Loss Damage Waiver purchase. Book by June 15, 2026 to lock in this rate. Reservations can be made online at Avis.com or by calling 1-800-331-1800.

📞 Book by phone: 1-800-331-1800 (provide AWD #A359824)
🌐 Book online: AARP.org/membership/benefits/carrental/avis/ → click through to Avis
🌐 Direct: Avis.com → Discount Codes tab → enter AWD A359824

35% Pay Now 30% Pay Later Free Upgrade Free Extra Driver 3% Future Credit

Best Sister-Brand Deal

Budget — Up to 35% Off with AARP (Pay Now)

🚗 Avis Budget Group • BCD #Y508539 • Book by June 15, 2026

💰 35% off Pay Now • 30% off Pay Later • BCD code: Y508539

✅ 35% off base rates when paying at booking

✅ 30% off base rates when paying at counter

✅ Free one-class vehicle upgrade (compact–full)

✅ One free additional driver per rental

✅ 3% credit applied toward next rental

✅ $10 off $175+ base rate on 3-day+ rentals (thru June 30)

✅ SUV rentals from $59/day for AARP members

⚠️ Car group X excluded; BCD required for 3% credit

Budget and Avis are sister companies under Avis Budget Group, and their AARP benefit structures are nearly identical. Budget’s BCD number Y508539 delivers the same 35%/30% Pay Now/Pay Later savings structure, the same free vehicle upgrade, free additional driver, and 3% future rental credit. An additional current promotion stacks on top: through June 30, 2026, AARP members can also receive $10 off any Budget rental of $175 or more in base time and mileage on a minimum three consecutive day rental. Budget also offers AARP members SUV rentals starting at $59/day at participating locations. The 3% credit is only applied when using your dedicated AARP BCD and is valid for 12 months from the qualifying rental. Book online at Budget.com or call 1-800-733-9092.

📞 Book by phone: 1-800-733-9092 (provide BCD #Y508539)
🌐 Book online: AARP.org/membership/benefits/carrental/budget/ → click through to Budget
🌐 Direct: Budget.com → Offer Codes tab → enter BCD Y508539

35% Pay Now BCD Y508539 $10 Off $175+ (thru June) Free Upgrade Free Extra Driver 3% Future Credit

Best for Comparing All Brands

AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia — Up to 30% Off Any Brand

💻 expedia-aarp.com • Enterprise, Hertz, National, Alamo & More

✅ Up to 30% off select rentals • All major brands • Book online or call 1-800-675-4318

✅ Enterprise, Hertz, National, Dollar, Alamo

✅ Thrifty, EZ Rent A Car, and more

✅ Compare rates across all brands side by side

✅ Up to 30% off select rental car rates

✅ Avis and Budget also bookable here

✅ One-stop shop for rental + hotel + flight

✅ Phone booking: 1-800-675-4318

⚠️ Compare against direct Avis/Budget rates first

The AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia is the best resource for AARP members who want to rent from Enterprise, Hertz, National, Alamo, or any brand without a dedicated AARP code. The platform aggregates rates from dozens of rental companies, applies any available member pricing, and allows apples-to-apples comparison on the same screen. AARP.org confirms up to 30% off select rentals through this channel. The practical tip: always run a search on the AARP Expedia portal first for your specific dates and location, then compare that result against the direct Avis or Budget rate using the AWD/BCD codes. Whichever is lower wins. For trips where Avis and Budget are significantly more expensive than Enterprise or Hertz at your target airport, the Expedia portal is your best route to a competitive AARP rate on those brands.

📞 Book by phone: 1-800-675-4318 (AARP Travel Center)
🌐 Book online: expedia-aarp.com → Cars tab → enter your dates

Up to 30% Off Enterprise & Hertz Accessible All Major Brands One-Stop Comparison Phone: 1-800-675-4318

Best Budget-Priced Option

Payless Car Rental — 5% Off + Free Upgrade & Driver

🚗 Payless Car Rental • Promo Code A057400 • U.S. & Canada

💰 5% off base rates • Promo code: A057400 • Free upgrade & additional driver

✅ 5% off leisure daily, weekly, weekend & monthly rates

✅ Applies to all car groups

✅ Free one-class upgrade (compact through full-size)

✅ One free additional driver per rental

✅ U.S. and Canada locations

✅ AARP membership card required at counter

⚠️ 5% discount is lower than Avis/Budget

⚠️ Holiday blackout dates may apply

Payless Car Rental is a budget-tier brand that is part of the Avis Budget Group family, making it particularly accessible for AARP members. While the 5% discount is lower than the 30–35% available at Avis and Budget, Payless base rates are often significantly lower to begin with, which can make the final after-discount price competitive on certain trip types — especially for shorter local rentals or when Avis and Budget inventory is limited. The free vehicle upgrade from compact to full-size and free additional driver benefits are the same quality perks offered at Avis and Budget. AARP membership verification at the counter is required. Use promo code A057400 when booking online at PaylessCar.com or call 1-800-729-5377.

📞 Book by phone: 1-800-729-5377 (mention AARP)
🌐 Book online: PaylessCar.com → enter promo code A057400
🌐 AARP link: AARP.org/membership/benefits/carrental/

5% Off Base Rates Code A057400 Free Upgrade Free Extra Driver U.S. & Canada

Best for Moving Day

Budget Truck Rental — 10%–20% Off Moving Trucks

🚚 Budget Truck Rental (Separate from Budget Car) • Account #56000058459

💰 20% off Sun–Thu • 10% off Fri–Sat • Account #56000058459 • $10/day Physical Damage Waiver

✅ 20% off local or one-way rentals Sun–Thu

✅ 10% off local or one-way rentals Fri–Sat

✅ $10/day Physical Damage Waiver included

✅ Applies to moves of any distance

✅ Available for local and one-way moves

⚠️ Separate company from Budget Car Rental

⚠️ Different account number from car discount

⚠️ Discount applies to time & mileage of Best Available Rate

Budget Truck Rental is a completely separate company from Budget Car Rental — different website, different phone number, different account number. AARP members who are downsizing, helping family members relocate, or moving to a new home can save 20% on weekday truck rentals and 10% on weekend rentals by providing account number 56000058459 at reservation. The included $10/day Physical Damage Waiver covers basic damage to the rental truck and represents additional value over the standard out-of-pocket risk. Both local (round-trip) and one-way (drop off at a different location) rentals qualify for the AARP discount. For the best weekday rate, plan your move pickup for Sunday through Thursday. Book by calling 1-866-470-7374 or at BudgetTruckRental.com.

📞 Book by phone: 1-866-470-7374 (provide account #56000058459)
🌐 Book online: BudgetTruckRental.com → enter AARP account number
🌐 AARP link: AARP.org/membership/benefits/carrental/

20% Off Weekdays 10% Off Weekends $10/day Damage Waiver Local & One-Way

Best for Local & Errand Trips

Zipcar — $40 Off Annual Membership + $40 Driving Credit

📱 Zipcar Car Sharing • No Counter, No Paperwork • App-Based

💰 Annual membership: ~$30 (was $70) • $40 driving credit for new members • Gas & insurance included

✅ $40 off annual Zipcar membership (reg. $70)

✅ $40 in free driving credit for new members

✅ Gas, insurance & maintenance all included

✅ Up to 180 miles per day included

✅ No rental counter — unlock car with app

✅ Rent by the hour or by the day

✅ Cars parked in neighborhoods, not just airports

⚠️ Requires smartphone; availability varies by city

Zipcar is fundamentally different from traditional car rental and serves a different need. Instead of picking up a car from an airport lot, Zipcar members reserve cars parked throughout their city or neighborhood and access them entirely through the Zipcar smartphone app. There is no rental counter, no paperwork, and no standing in line. Gas, insurance, maintenance, and 180 daily miles are included in the hourly rate. With the AARP discount, the annual membership drops from $70 to approximately $30, and new members receive $40 in free driving credit — essentially covering your first 3–4 hours of driving at no charge. Zipcar is best suited for city dwellers, people without cars, or those who need a vehicle for a few hours. For multi-day trips or airport travel, traditional rental companies remain the better choice. Call Zipcar at 1-866-494-7227 or join online using your AARP member number.

📞 Join by phone: 1-866-494-7227 (mention AARP for discount)
🌐 Join online: Zipcar.com → use AARP member number during signup
🌐 AARP link: AARP.org/membership/benefits/carrental/

$40 Off Membership $40 Driving Credit Gas & Insurance Included No Counter Required By the Hour or Day

Best When Plans May Change

Avis AARP Pay Later — 30% Off, Cancel Anytime Before Pickup

🚗 Avis Budget Group • AWD #A359824 • No Prepayment Required

💰 30% off base rates • Pay at counter • Free to cancel before pickup • AWD A359824

✅ 30% off base rates — no prepayment required

✅ Pay at pickup counter with your credit card

✅ Cancel anytime before pickup — no penalty

✅ Same free upgrade and free driver as Pay Now

✅ Same 3% future rental credit

⚠️ 5% less savings than Pay Now option

⚠️ Rate may vary slightly vs. prepaid rate

⚠️ Same exclusions and blackout dates apply

The Avis Pay Later option at 30% off is the right choice for any AARP member whose travel plans are not fully confirmed at the time of booking. If there is any chance a flight might be cancelled, a health issue could arise, or family plans could shift, Pay Later provides the same core AARP benefits — free upgrade, free additional driver, 3% future credit — without the financial risk of a non-refundable prepaid reservation. The 5% difference between Pay Now (35%) and Pay Later (30%) on a $200 base rental amounts to $10. For most travelers, the peace of mind from a free-cancellation reservation is worth that $10 difference. Use the same AWD #A359824 when booking Pay Later as Pay Now.

📞 Book by phone: 1-800-331-1800 (request Pay Later rate with AWD A359824)
🌐 Book online: Avis.com → select Pay Later column after entering AWD A359824

30% Off Free Cancellation No Prepayment Same Perks as Pay Now

Best Budget Flexible Rate

Budget AARP Pay Later — 30% Off, No Prepayment

🚗 Avis Budget Group • BCD #Y508539 • Pay at Counter

💰 30% off base rates • Pay at counter • Cancel free before pickup • BCD Y508539

✅ 30% off base rates — no prepayment needed

✅ Pay at pickup counter at start of rental

✅ Free upgrade and free additional driver

✅ 3% credit on next qualifying rental

✅ LDW liability capped at $5,000

✅ Stackable with some Budget promotions

⚠️ 5% less savings than Pay Now option

⚠️ AARP BCD required for 3% credit

Budget’s Pay Later AARP rate mirrors Avis’s structure: 30% off base rates with free cancellation before pickup. Like the Avis Pay Later option, this is the right choice when your travel plans are tentative, when you are unsure of your exact return date, or when you simply prefer not to commit funds ahead of a trip. Budget specifically notes that AARP members using BCD Y508539 must use their dedicated AARP code to earn the 3% future rental credit — using a generic code may produce a similar rate but won’t generate the credit. Budget’s current $10-off-$175+ promotion is an additional stackable benefit for qualifying multi-day rentals through June 30, 2026. Book at Budget.com or by calling 1-800-733-9092.

📞 Book by phone: 1-800-733-9092 (provide BCD #Y508539; request Pay Later)
🌐 Book online: Budget.com → Offer Codes → enter BCD Y508539 → choose Pay Later

30% Off BCD Y508539 Free Cancellation 3% Future Credit

Best for Larger Groups & Road Trips

Avis AARP SUV Special — From $64/Day for Members

🚗 Avis Rental • AARP Member Rate • Limited Time Availability

💰 SUV rates from $64/day for AARP members • Book via AARP member link • Subject to availability

✅ Intermediate through premium SUV classes

✅ Starting from $64/day for AARP members

✅ More space for family travel or grandchildren

✅ Great for road trips with luggage

✅ Includes standard AARP perks where eligible

✅ Available at participating airport locations

⚠️ Promotional rate — availability and dates vary

⚠️ Compare against standard AARP AWD rate first

Avis periodically runs AARP-specific SUV promotions at reduced member rates, currently advertised from $64 per day at participating airport locations. For families traveling with grandchildren, couples on extended road trips, or groups needing extra cargo space, the SUV rate makes larger vehicles more financially accessible than standard rack rates would suggest. Always compare the SUV promotional rate against the standard AARP AWD rate applied to an SUV category to ensure the promotional price is actually lower. Book through the AARP member link at AARP.org or by calling 1-800-331-1800 and asking about current AARP SUV promotions. Similarly, Budget offers comparable SUV pricing for AARP members through parallel promotions.

📞 Book by phone: 1-800-331-1800 (ask about AARP SUV rate)
🌐 Book online: AARP.org/membership/benefits/carrental/avis/ → check current SUV offer

From $64/Day AARP Members Only Airport Locations Family Road Trips

Best Overall Savings Strategy

Smart Stacking — Combining AARP Discounts for Maximum Savings

💡 Expert Strategy • Compare + Stack • Available to All AARP Members

✅ Compare Expedia vs. direct Avis/Budget rates • Stack $10 coupon with BCD at Budget • Use 3% credit strategically

✅ Always compare Expedia AARP rate vs. direct

✅ Budget: stack $10-off-$175+ with BCD Y508539

✅ Book weekday moves Sun–Thu for 20% Budget Truck

✅ Use 3% credit strategically on largest future rental

✅ Pay Now when plans are firm (extra 5% savings)

✅ Pay Later when plans may change (free cancel)

✅ Check Payless when Avis/Budget are unavailable

✅ Use Zipcar for in-town needs; avoid airport fees

The most important AARP car rental strategy is comparison-first shopping. Before booking, run your dates on both the AARP Travel Center Expedia portal and directly at Avis.com and Budget.com with your respective codes. The direct rate is sometimes lower, and sometimes the Expedia portal delivers better pricing on the same vehicle class at the same airport. At Budget specifically, the $10-off-$175+ promotion through June 30, 2026 can be combined with the AARP BCD rate, shaving additional dollars off a multi-day rental. The 3% credit earned at both Avis and Budget accumulates toward your next booking — save it for your largest upcoming rental to maximize the dollar value. For in-city transportation, Zipcar’s inclusion of gas and insurance creates true all-in pricing that can be cheaper than a traditional rental plus fuel for short local trips.

📞 AARP Travel Center: 1-800-675-4318
🌐 Compare all rates: expedia-aarp.com → Cars tab
🌐 Direct Avis: Avis.com + AWD A359824 • Direct Budget: Budget.com + BCD Y508539

Compare Before Booking Stack Budget $10 Coupon Use 3% Credit Wisely Pay Now for Firm Plans Pay Later for Flexibility

Sources: AARP.org/membership/benefits/carrental/ (official listing: Avis, Budget, Budget Truck, Payless, Zipcar, Expedia Travel Center; 3 booking methods); AARP.org/membership/benefits/carrental/avis/ (AWD A359824; 35% Pay Now; 30% Pay Later; book by June 15 2026); AARP.org/membership/benefits/carrental/budget/ (BCD Y508539; 35%; book by June 15 2026; 3% credit requires AARP BCD); Budget.com AARP pages (BCD Y508539; $10 off $175+ 3-day min thru June 30 2026; SUV from $59/day; 12-month credit validity; account 56000058459 Budget Truck); Avis.com AARP page (AWD A359824; free upgrade compact-full; 1 free driver; GPS $6.99/day; LDW $5,000 cap; $25K/$50K/$10K liability); Payless.com AARP (code A057400; 5%; free upgrade; 1 free driver; 1-800-729-5377; AARP card required at counter); TheSeniorList.com AARP car rental Nov 2025 (Zipcar 1-866-494-7227; $40 driving credit; Budget Truck 1-866-470-7374; ~$105/yr savings); NerdWallet (BLS $50-$80/day; AARP $16/yr; Zipcar $25 app fee + $40 driving credit); AARP.org travel-discounts ($40 off Zipcar annual; Budget Truck 10-20%; Zipcar 180 miles/day); SeniorLiving.org ($105/yr savings estimate; 3 booking methods confirmed); AARP Travel Center Expedia (up to 30% select rentals; Enterprise/Hertz/National/Alamo/Thrifty/Dollar/EZ accessible)

💸 AARP Car Rental Savings — Key Numbers at a Glance

🏆 Best Discount Rate

35% Off

Maximum AARP car rental discount available at Avis (AWD A359824) and Budget (BCD Y508539) when paying at the time of reservation (Pay Now). Applies to base time and mileage only. Book by June 15, 2026 for current offer.

💵 Estimated Annual Savings

~$105/yr

SeniorLiving.org estimates the up-to-30% AARP car rental discount saves the average member approximately $105 per year. With rates averaging $50–$80 per day per BLS data, a 35% discount on a 2-day rental saves $35–$56 on base rates alone.

💳 AARP Membership Cost

$15/yr

AARP membership is $15 for the first year with automatic renewal, or approximately $16 per year. A single two-day car rental at $50/day with 35% off saves $35 — more than double the cost of annual membership.

📞 AARP Travel Help Line

1-800-675-4318

The AARP Travel Center phone line handles car rental bookings, comparisons, and questions for all partner rental companies. Representatives can book Avis, Budget, and Expedia Travel Center rentals with AARP pricing applied. Available during standard business hours.

✅ The Best AARP Car Rental Strategy in 3 Steps

Step 1: Check both the AARP Expedia portal AND direct Avis/Budget rates before booking. Run your exact dates and pickup location at expedia-aarp.com and at Avis.com (with AWD A359824) and Budget.com (with BCD Y508539). The direct rate is often lower on weekdays or off-peak dates; the Expedia portal is sometimes better during peak travel periods when Avis and Budget are priced higher than alternatives like Enterprise or Hertz.
Step 2: Decide Pay Now vs. Pay Later based on your travel certainty. If your flights are booked and your dates are firm, Pay Now saves an extra 5% (35% vs. 30%). If there is any uncertainty about your travel, Pay Later at 30% off is still an excellent deal and removes the risk of losing a prepaid reservation.
Step 3: Save your 3% future credit for your next large rental. The 3% rental credit earned at Avis and Budget is automatically applied to your next booking made with the same AARP discount code. Track this credit in your Avis Preferred or Budget Fastbreak loyalty account and apply it strategically to your highest-cost future rental rather than a short local trip.

Sources: AARP.org/membership/benefits/carrental/ (Expedia portal; Avis/Budget direct booking options); Budget.com AARP (3% credit 12-month validity; AARP BCD required for credit); TheSeniorList.com Nov 2025 (~$105/yr savings); NerdWallet (BLS $50-$80/day; $16/yr AARP); AARP.org travel-discounts (1-800-675-4318)

📋 AARP Car Rental Discounts — Side-by-Side Comparison

All rates apply to base time and mileage only. Taxes, fees, and surcharges are always extra. Discounts and terms confirmed from official AARP and partner pages as of March 2026.

Company	AARP Discount	Code	Free Upgrade	Free Driver	Phone
Avis (Pay Now)	Up to 35%	AWD A359824	Yes	Yes	1-800-331-1800
Avis (Pay Later)	Up to 30%	AWD A359824	Yes	Yes	1-800-331-1800
Budget (Pay Now)	Up to 35%	BCD Y508539	Yes	Yes	1-800-733-9092
Budget (Pay Later)	Up to 30%	BCD Y508539	Yes	Yes	1-800-733-9092
Payless Car Rental	5%	A057400	Yes	Yes	1-800-729-5377
Budget Truck (weekday)	20%	Acct #56000058459	N/A	N/A	1-866-470-7374
Budget Truck (weekend)	10%	Acct #56000058459	N/A	N/A	1-866-470-7374
Zipcar (new members)	$40 off + $40 credit	AARP # at signup	N/A	N/A	1-866-494-7227
AARP Travel Center (Expedia)	Up to 30%	Auto-applied	Varies	Varies	1-800-675-4318
Enterprise / Hertz / Alamo	Via Expedia only	Via Expedia	Varies	Varies	1-800-675-4318

Sources: AARP.org/membership/benefits/carrental/ (all partners; Expedia Travel Center auto-applied; 1-800-675-4318); Avis.com AARP page (AWD A359824; 35%/30%; free upgrade; free driver; 1-800-331-1800); Budget.com AARP pages (BCD Y508539; 35%/30%; free upgrade; free driver; 1-800-733-9092); Payless.com AARP (A057400; 5%; free upgrade; free driver; 1-800-729-5377); Budget Truck AARP (account 56000058459; 20%/10%; 1-866-470-7374); Zipcar AARP (1-866-494-7227; $40 off annual; $40 driving credit; AARP number at signup)

❓ AARP Car Rental Questions Answered Plainly

💡 I booked with my AARP code but the discount is not showing. What should I do?

The most common reasons the AARP discount does not appear are: the code was entered at the wrong step of the reservation process, or the reservation was started before clicking through from an AARP member link. For Avis, the AWD code must be entered in the “Discount Codes” tab at the very beginning of the reservation form — before selecting your car. For Budget, the BCD code goes in the “Offer Codes” tab at the same stage. If you are booking through the AARP Travel Center Expedia portal, the discount is applied automatically and does not require a separate code entry — but you must be logged into your AARP account first. If none of these steps resolve the issue, call the AARP Travel Center at 1-800-675-4318 or the specific rental company directly and a representative can apply the discount manually while you are on the phone. Always confirm the discounted rate appears in your reservation summary before completing your booking.

💡 Can I use my AARP discount at the counter if I forgot to enter the code when booking?

It depends on the company and location. At Avis and Budget, presenting your AARP membership card at the counter and asking the associate to apply the AARP rate may work, but it is not guaranteed — the associate must manually look up and apply the rate, which some locations will do as a courtesy and others will not. Payless explicitly requires the code at the time of booking, not at counter. The safest approach is always to cancel your existing non-discounted reservation (most Pay Later reservations can be cancelled for free) and rebook with your AARP discount code applied correctly. This is faster than trying to negotiate a rate adjustment at the counter on a busy travel day. If you are unsure whether you can cancel and rebook in time, call 1-800-675-4318 and an AARP Travel Center representative can assist.

💡 Is the AARP discount always the best rate, or should I still shop around?

Always shop around. The AARP discount is applied to the rental company’s base rate, which fluctuates significantly based on demand, season, location, and availability. There are many situations where a general sale at a competing rental company, a credit card travel benefit, or a Costco Travel rate produces a lower final price than the AARP discount at Avis or Budget. Best practice: start with the AARP Expedia Travel Center to see all available rates in one place, then compare those results against the direct Avis and Budget AARP rates, and also check any price you find against Costco Travel (if you are a member) and Google Travel. The AARP discount is a strong, reliable baseline, but it is not guaranteed to be the absolute lowest price on every rental on every date. A 30-second comparison check before booking often saves an additional $20–$50.

💡 Do I need a separate AARP membership card for each person in my household?

No. An AARP membership covers both the primary member and one free associate member in the same household — typically a spouse or partner — under a single annual fee. Both the primary and associate member receive the full AARP membership benefits, including access to all car rental discounts. The associate member should have their own AARP membership card (physical or digital in the AARP app) to present at the rental counter, since membership verification is required at pickup. If the associate member does not yet have their card, call AARP at 1-888-687-2277 or log in at AARP.org to request a card for the second household member before your trip.

💡 Are there age restrictions for renting a car as an AARP member?

Rental car companies in the United States set their own age policies, and AARP membership does not waive age-related restrictions or surcharges. Most major rental companies — including Avis and Budget — charge a daily underage surcharge for drivers under 25. Renters must meet each company’s minimum age requirements (typically 21, or 25 at some locations and for certain car classes) regardless of AARP membership. There is no maximum age restriction for car rentals in the United States, though a valid driver’s license is always required. Some rental companies may impose additional requirements for drivers over a certain age in other countries, but this does not apply to domestic U.S. rentals. If you have a specific concern about age requirements, call the rental company directly before booking.

💡 I don’t have a smartphone. Can I still use AARP car rental discounts without an app?

Absolutely. AARP car rental discounts are fully accessible by phone and do not require a smartphone, app, or internet connection. You have three phone-based options: call the AARP Travel Center at 1-800-675-4318 and a representative will handle the entire reservation with your discount applied; call Avis directly at 1-800-331-1800 and provide AWD #A359824; or call Budget at 1-800-733-9092 and provide BCD #Y508539. For Payless, call 1-800-729-5377 and mention your AARP membership. For Budget Truck Rental, call 1-866-470-7374 and provide account number 56000058459. For Zipcar, call 1-866-494-7227 to join and get the AARP discount applied to your membership. Your physical AARP membership card (requested by calling 1-888-687-2277) is all you need at the rental counter.

Sources: AARP.org/membership/benefits/carrental/ (free associate membership for household; 1-888-687-2277 for card); Avis.com AARP (AWD entry at discount codes tab; 1-800-331-1800); Budget.com AARP (BCD entry at offer codes tab; 1-800-733-9092); Payless.com AARP (code required at booking; 1-800-729-5377; counter presentation required); AARP.org car-rental-discounts page (3 booking methods: Expedia portal, phone 1-800-675-4318, direct to company); Budget Truck (1-866-470-7374; account 56000058459); Zipcar (1-866-494-7227); NerdWallet rental discounts (age requirements; no max age U.S. domestic; underage surcharge standard); SeniorLiving.org (AARP card required at counter confirmed)

✅ Five Steps to Get the Best AARP Car Rental Rate Every Time

Step 1: Log in to AARP.org and go to the Car Rental benefits page before every trip. Visit AARP.org/membership/benefits/carrental/ to access all current partner offers in one place. AARP occasionally adds new promotions, stackable offers (like the Budget $10-off coupon), and seasonal deals that are not publicized elsewhere. Checking before you book ensures you see the most current offers.
Step 2: Run a side-by-side comparison — AARP Expedia portal vs. direct Avis vs. direct Budget. This takes under five minutes and consistently reveals which booking path produces the lowest total. Visit expedia-aarp.com (Cars tab), then Avis.com with AWD A359824, then Budget.com with BCD Y508539. Choose the lowest quoted rate for your specific dates, location, and vehicle class.
Step 3: Choose Pay Now when your travel dates are confirmed; Pay Later when they may change. The 5% difference (35% vs. 30%) is real money, but a cancelled non-refundable reservation costs more. If your flights are booked, prepay. If there is any uncertainty, the free-cancellation Pay Later rate at 30% is the smarter choice.
Step 4: Bring your AARP membership card to the rental counter. Physical or digital (via the AARP app), your membership card is required at pickup at all partner locations. Without it, the associate may be unable to verify your eligibility and apply your discount. Request a physical card at 1-888-687-2277 or download the AARP app before your trip.
Step 5: Track your 3% future rental credit at Avis and Budget. The 3% credit earned at both Avis and Budget on qualifying AARP rentals is valid for 12 months and applies to your next booking with the same discount code. Log into your Avis Preferred or Budget Fastbreak account after each rental to confirm the credit posted, and apply it to your highest-cost upcoming rental for maximum value.

🚨 Three Mistakes AARP Members Make with Car Rental Discounts

Entering the discount code at checkout instead of at the beginning of the reservation. Both Avis and Budget require you to enter the AWD or BCD number in the Discount/Offer Codes tab at the very first step of the reservation form — before selecting your car, not at the payment screen. Entering it late means the discounted rate was never applied to the vehicles shown, and the final price will be wrong. Always start over from the discount code field if you realize you missed this step.
Assuming Avis and Budget are always cheaper than other brands just because of the AARP deal. The AARP discount is applied to the companies’ base rates — and on some dates and in some markets, even a non-discounted Enterprise or Hertz rate through the AARP Expedia portal may undercut the 30–35% discounted Avis or Budget rate. Never skip the comparison step. The AARP discount is a strong tool, not a guarantee of the lowest price in every market at every time.
Forgetting that taxes, fees, and add-ons are NOT discounted. The AARP rate applies only to the base time and mileage charge. Airport concession fees, vehicle license recovery fees, fuel charges, and optional add-ons like GPS or loss damage waivers are charged at standard rates. When budgeting for a rental, use the full quoted total including fees — not just the base rate — to compare different companies and booking options accurately.

© BudgetSeniors.com — This guide is independently researched and written. We are not affiliated with, compensated by, or endorsed by AARP, Avis, Budget, Payless, Zipcar, or any company listed here. All discount codes, rates, and program details are sourced from official AARP and rental company pages as of March 2026. Offers are subject to change, blackout dates, and availability. Always verify current terms at AARP.org before booking. AARP Travel Center: 1-800-675-4318 • Avis: 1-800-331-1800 • Budget: 1-800-733-9092 • Payless: 1-800-729-5377 • Budget Truck: 1-866-470-7374 • Zipcar: 1-866-494-7227 • AARP Membership: 1-888-687-2277

Primary sources: AARP.org/membership/benefits/carrental/ (all partner brands; official discount hub; Expedia Travel Center; Budget Truck; Zipcar; 3 booking methods; 1-800-675-4318); AARP.org/membership/benefits/carrental/avis/ (AWD A359824; 35% Pay Now; 30% Pay Later; book by June 15 2026; auto-applied when booking via AARP link); AARP.org/membership/benefits/carrental/budget/ (BCD Y508539; 35% Pay Now & Pay Later; book by June 15 2026; 3% credit requires AARP BCD; 12-month credit validity); Budget.com AARP pages (BCD Y508539; $10 off $175+ 3-day min thru June 30 2026; $5,000 LDW cap; 1-800-733-9092; SUV from $59/day; car group X excluded); Avis.com AARP page (AWD A359824; compact-full upgrade; 1 free driver; GPS $6.99/day; $5,000 LDW cap; $25K/$50K/$10K liability coverage; unlimited mileage most rentals; car group X excluded); Payless.com AARP (code A057400; 5%; compact-full upgrade; 1 free driver; U.S. & Canada; AARP card required at counter; 1-800-729-5377); AARP.org travel-discounts ($40 off Zipcar annual reg $70; $40 driving credit new members; Budget Truck 20% Sun-Thu 10% Fri-Sat; Zipcar 180 miles/day; gas/insurance/maintenance included); TheSeniorList.com AARP car rental Nov 2025 (~$105/yr savings; Zipcar 1-866-494-7227; Budget Truck 1-866-470-7374; account 56000058459; $10/day PDW); NerdWallet rental discounts (AARP $16/yr; BLS $50-$80/day avg; Zipcar $25 app fee + $40 driving credit; Avis 30%; Budget 35%; Payless 5%); SeniorLiving.org AARP car rental (1-800-675-4318; 3 booking methods; AARP card at counter required; $105/yr savings); BLS.gov CPI car rental (8% decrease May 2023–May 2024 confirmed; $50-$80/day still typical); AARP.org/membership/benefits/all-offers-a-z (1-888-687-2277 AARP member services)

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