Should My Teenager Have a AAA Membership?

Handing the car keys to your teenager for the first time is a nerve-wracking moment for any parent. How can you keep them safe behind the wheel if you’re not there? That’s where AAA comes in. Rescuing motorists in need is what AAA does best—beyond just providing towing services—and that protection can extend to your teen driver. Here are a few benefits of adding your teenager to your AAA membership.

teenage girl standing by car with hood open while on cell phone

24/7/365 ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
Providing peace of mind on the road has been AAA’s motto since it was founded in 1902. It’s no secret roadside assistance is why most people join AAA. So, if your teenager is ever stranded at the roadside, a AAA membership gets them:

Towing up to 200 miles (mileage and number of service calls depend on your AAA membership plan)
Battery service
Tire changes
Out-of-fuel service
Lock-out service

According to 2022 AAA/CAA data, nearly six out of ten drivers are back on the road without a tow after calling AAA for help. That means no frantic phone call from your child asking you to pick them up. Crisis averted. But, if towing is unavoidable, don’t worry—AAA will take them to a location of your choice. You should know, however, that it will cost you extra if the tow is longer than your mileage limit.

Also, it’s important to know that a AAA membership follows the person—not the car. It doesn’t matter what vehicle your teenager is in or who’s driving. If a breakdown happens and they’re present, AAA will take care of them.

teenage girl in car with driving school instructor

DRIVING SCHOOL
Did you know AAA created the first-ever driving course in 1935? Safe driving is an important part of AAA’s history and present-day culture. If your teenager has just gotten their learner’s permit—and you live in an applicable state—you can register them for in-person or online driving school classes with the safe driving experts.

Check out AAA’s state-approved driver education programs here. AAA Members receive a discount on enrollment.

AAA DISCOUNTS
AAA is more than just roadside assistance. Your teen driver will also get access to your AAA discounts, such as savings on:

Attraction, concert, and sporting event tickets
Car maintenance & repairs
Car parts
Electronics
Health & fitness
Insurance & finances
Restaurants
Retail shopping
Travel planning, hotels, flights & rental cars

According to a 2022 AAA U.S. Market Track national survey, members who use these discounts can save about $170 per year. And, consider how valuable discounts on car maintenance, repairs, parts, and insurance are for a new driver.

teenage girl with father packing car with items for college

WHAT KIND OF AAA MEMBERSHIP DO I GET FOR MY TEENAGER?
If you already have a AAA membership, you’re in luck. All you have to do is add your teenager to your membership, which is cheaper than purchasing a new membership. Then, as long as your teen driver lives under your roof, they’re eligible for your benefits. Even when they’re away at college.

If you don’t have a membership, AAA offers three levels of coverage: Classic, Plus, and Premier. Prices depend on where you live, but you will pay more for Plus and Premier memberships.

READY TO GIVE THEM THAT EXTRA ROADSIDE PROTECTION—FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND?
It’s time to breathe a little easier every time they pull out of the driveway. Explore AAA’s teen driving resources and consider adding your teenager to your AAA membership today.