does aarp offer discounts on car rentals

[CooperFitz]

Yes, AARP members receive discounts on car rentals from several major companies, typically ranging from 10% to 30%. The primary partners are Budget and Avis, which consistently offer some of the most substantial savings. To use the discount, you must provide your AARP membership number when booking online or at the counter. It's also a good idea to compare these rates with any other discounts you might qualify for, as the AARP rate is not always the absolute lowest but is generally very competitive.

The process is straightforward. When booking, you’ll find a field to enter a promotional code or coupon code. The current codes are listed in the "Member Benefits" section on the AARP website. For Avis, the code is often AARP, and for Budget, it's typically BCD# U117000. These codes can also be linked to your rental company loyalty account for automatic application on future bookings.

It's important to read the fine print. The discount usually applies to the base rental rate but may not include taxes, fees, or optional insurance add-ons like the Loss Damage Waiver (LDW), which covers you in case of damage to the rental car. The discount is also subject to availability and blackout dates, so booking in advance is recommended.

Here is a quick reference for the primary AARP car rental partners and their typical discounts:

Rental Company	Typical Discount	Promo Code (Example)	Key Notes
Avis	Up to 30%	AARP	Also includes a potential upgrade discount.
Budget	Up to 30%	BCD# U117000	Discount applies to participating locations.
Payless	Up to 15%	Varies	A smaller but still valuable discount.
Hertz	Up to 25%*	Varies	*Offer varies more frequently; check AARP site.

Beyond the direct percentage off, AARP membership can unlock other valuable perks. This includes potentially waiving the young renter fee for drivers under 25 at some locations and providing a second driver for free, which can be a significant savings for couples or travel companions. Always present your AARP card at pickup to ensure all benefits are applied correctly.

[LaHolden]

Absolutely. I use my AARP card for Budget rentals all the time. It’s a solid 25-30% off the standard rate. I just book online, pop in the promo code from the AARP website, and the discount shows up right away. It’s one of the most straightforward benefits they offer. Makes a weekend trip much more affordable.

[DelDelilah]

You bet. The discounts are real, especially with Avis and Budget. The key is to always double-check the final price. Sometimes your employer's corporate rate or a promo you found online might be better. The AARP deal is reliable, but it pays to do a quick comparison. Don't forget to ask about the free additional driver benefit—it's a huge plus.

[DeMichael]

Yes, and it's a fantastic benefit for frequent travelers. I travel for small business meetings, and the consistent savings with Avis add up over a year. The process is seamless once you save the promo code in your account profile. I’ve found the discount is almost always better than the standard public rate, and the included second driver is a practical money-saver.

[Irene]

Definitely. My husband and I always use the AARP discount when we rent a car to visit the grandkids. We stick with Budget, and it’s saved us a good amount of money on more than one occasion. The staff is always familiar with it, and it’s never been a problem to apply. Just make sure you have your membership card with you at the counter. It’s a simple way to keep travel costs down.