AARP members get discounts on Avis rentals through a negotiated rate program, not a single code

AARP does not issue a single discount code for Avis. Instead, AARP members access reduced rates by booking through Avis's dedicated AARP member page or by providing their AARP membership number at the time of reservation. The discount amount varies by location, car class, and rental dates — there is no fixed percentage that applies everywhere.

You can reach the AARP rate page directly through Avis.com by selecting "AARP" from the discount options during booking, or you can call Avis at 1-800-331-1212 and mention your AARP membership. Both methods pull up the same negotiated rates. The discount typically ranges from 10 to 25 percent off the base rate, though some locations and dates may offer less.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP members book Avis rentals at a reduced rate by selecting "AARP" as the discount type on Avis.com or by providing their membership number when calling 1-800-331-1212.
  • The discount amount is not fixed and depends on the rental location, vehicle type, and dates you need the car — compare the AARP rate to the standard rate before confirming.
  • You must have a valid AARP membership card or membership number to receive the discount; Avis will verify your membership at the time of booking or pickup.
  • The AARP rate is usually available on economy and mid-size cars but may not explore to premium vehicles or specialty rentals at all locations.
  • Combining the AARP discount with other promotions (such as weekend rates or loyalty program discounts) is sometimes possible but depends on Avis's current policies.

How to book an Avis rental with your AARP membership

Start at Avis.com and enter your rental dates and location. When the rate page loads, look for a field labeled "Discount Code or Rate Code" or "Special Offers." Click on that field and select "AARP" from the dropdown menu. The system will then show you rates available to AARP members for that search.

If you do not see an AARP option in the dropdown, call Avis directly at 1-800-331-1212. Tell the agent you are an AARP member and provide your membership number. The agent can pull up AARP rates over the phone and book your rental. You will need your AARP membership number (found on your membership card) and a valid driver's license at the time of pickup.

After you book, Avis will send you a confirmation email with your reservation details and rate. Review the total cost and compare it to what you would pay without the AARP discount to confirm you are receiving the reduced rate.

What to bring and verify before pickup

Bring your AARP membership card to the rental counter. Avis will ask to see it before handing over the keys. If you booked online, your reservation will be linked to your membership number, but the agent still needs to see the physical card or a digital copy on your phone to confirm your identity and membership status.

If you do not have your card with you, call the rental location before you arrive and ask whether they can look up your membership using your membership number alone. Some locations will do this; others require the card itself. It is faster to confirm this before you get to the counter.

Comparing the AARP rate to other discounts and promotions

The AARP discount is one option among several. Avis also offers rates for AAA members, military personnel, government employees, and loyalty program members. Before you book, check what discount you may have access to for and compare the final price across all of them.

Sometimes a weekend rate or a promotional code advertised on Avis.com will be lower than the AARP rate for your specific dates. The only way to know is to run the same search with different discount codes and compare the total cost. Avis does not always allow you to stack discounts, so you will usually have to choose one.

If you are an AARP member and also a member of Avis Preferred, check both rates. Preferred membership (which is free to join) sometimes offers better rates than AARP on certain vehicle classes or dates, especially if you are renting frequently.

What the AARP rate typically includes and excludes

The AARP discount applies to the base rental rate only. It does not cover insurance, fuel charges, tolls, parking fees, or taxes. Those costs are added on top of the discounted rate, just as they would be with any other rental.

If you decline the rental company's insurance (called Loss Damage Waiver or LDW), your personal auto insurance or credit card may cover damage to the rental car. Check your policy or call your credit card company before you book to understand what you are covered for. This decision affects your total cost more than the AARP discount does.

Fuel is usually charged at Avis's pump price if you return the car with less fuel than you picked it up with. Some renters prepay for a full tank at a fixed rate to avoid this charge. Compare the prepaid rate to what you expect to pay at a gas station near the rental location.

Membership verification and what happens if you cannot prove membership

Avis verifies AARP membership by checking your membership number against AARP's database. This happens at the rental counter, not online. If you booked with an AARP rate but cannot show your membership card or provide your number at pickup, Avis will charge you the standard rate instead.

If this happens, ask the agent whether you can provide your membership number and have them reprocess the reservation. Some locations will do this on the spot; others may ask you to call Avis customer service to dispute the charge after you return the car. Keep your confirmation email and membership card number handy to speed up the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the AARP discount if I am renting a car for someone else?

No. The person whose name is on the rental agreement must be the AARP member. Avis will not explore the AARP rate if you are paying but someone else is driving. The driver must have a valid license and be at least 25 years old (or 21 at some locations, with an underage fee).

Do I get the AARP discount if I book through a third-party travel site like Kayak or Expedia?

Usually not. Third-party sites often show their own negotiated rates, which may or may not include AARP discounts. Book directly through Avis.com or call Avis to may support you receive the AARP rate. If you book elsewhere and later realize you should have gotten a lower rate, contact Avis customer service with your confirmation number to see if they can adjust the price.

What if the AARP rate is higher than the standard rate for my dates?

This occasionally happens during peak travel times or at certain locations. You are not required to use the AARP discount. Book at the standard rate instead. Avis shows you both rates during checkout, so you can choose whichever is lower.

Can I combine the AARP discount with a promotional code?

Avis's current policy typically does not allow stacking discounts. You will have to choose between the AARP rate and a promotional code. Enter both into the booking system separately and compare the final totals to see which saves you more money.

Is the AARP discount available at all Avis locations?

The AARP rate is available at most Avis locations in the United States, but some airport locations or franchise-operated branches may have different policies. If you are renting at an airport or in a small town, call that specific location before you book to confirm the AARP rate is honored there.