How to Get Roadside Assistance Without a Membership

Not a AAA Member? Here are four ways to get roadside assistance anyway.

Kimberly Olson
October 14, 2025

1. Call AAA Roadside Assistance

If your car breaks down and you don’t have AAA Membership, you can still call AAA for roadside assistance. 

Just call 800-222-4357 and we’ll send a technician to help. If you aren’t a Member, there will be additional fees (a fee for instant activation of your Membership, plus the cost of Membership plan). Pricing varies by AAA club, so be sure to ask the AAA representative about applicable fees. You don’t need to have AAA Insurance to get roadside assistance. 

2. Search for Towing Companies Near You

Do a Google search of “towing companies near me.” Ask each company for a quote and for their estimated wait time. Make sure to read customer reviews to help guide your choice. 

3. Use Credit Card Roadside Benefits

Your credit card may offer roadside assistance as a benefit. Visit your credit card’s website or call the card’s 800 number to find out if you’re entitled to roadside assistance. Make sure the type of vehicle you drive is covered. (Commercial vehicles may be excluded, for example.)

Some credit card companies include free roadside service while others charge a fee when you call for roadside help.

4. Contact Your Insurance Company

Some insurance companies offer roadside assistance as an add-on to your insurance policy. Ask your insurance agent if your policy includes roadside assistance. Cost and availability vary by insurance provider. 

Consider Purchasing a AAA Membership

AAA Membership is an annual plan that includes 24/7 roadside assistance. AAA takes care of roadside needs like spare tire swaps, battery jump starts, battery replacement,1 gas delivery, tows, and more. 

AAA offers three Membership tiers so you can find the perfect fit.2 AAA Members are entitled to up to four service calls per year. Being a AAA Insurance policyholder is not required to purchase AAA Membership, but Members may receive a discount on AAA Auto Insurance.3

Explore AAA Membership plans for more information. Roadside assistance benefits start 48 hours after payment approval. For immediate assistance, call AAA to get roadside help.

Learn more about AAA Membership.
Explore Roadside Plans
1 Not available for all vehicles. Additional fees may apply for certain vehicles. Not Available in all locations.
2 If instant activation is needed, you must purchase a Classic Membership, but can upgrade to a different tier at a later date.
3 Only available in select states.
Content on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as official recommendations or advice from AAA Northern California, Nevada & Utah.