Yes, you can generally tow someone else's car with your AAA membership, but there are critical rules you must follow to avoid being denied service. The key is that your AAA membership follows you, not your vehicle. This means that as long as you are present and can provide your valid AAA card and photo ID at the scene, the tow truck will typically service the vehicle you are with, even if it's not registered in your name.
However, the primary purpose is for assistance to you, the member. The service cannot be used for commercial purposes or for a vehicle owned by someone who lives at your address but is not on your membership plan. The tow will also be subject to your specific membership level's benefits. For example, a Classic member might get 5 miles of towing for free, while a Plus member gets 100 miles. If the tow distance exceeds your included mileage, you will be responsible for the per-mile charge.
| AAA Membership Level | Included Tow Miles (Per Service Call) | Estimated Cost for Excess Miles |
|---|
| Classic | 5 miles | Varies by region & provider |
| Plus | 100 miles | Typically $4 - $8 per mile |
| Premier | 100 miles (plus 1 long-distance tow up to 200 miles) | Typically $4 - $8 per mile |
The process is straightforward. When you call for service, explain the situation clearly: you are a AAA member needing a tow for a car you are with. The dispatcher will verify your membership. It's a good idea to have the vehicle's location, make, model, and license plate number ready. Remember, the service is a benefit of your membership, so you must be physically present to authorize the work. This policy is incredibly helpful for helping a friend or family member in a bind, making your membership even more valuable.
