No, AAA typically will not tow a vehicle with expired registration. This type of request is generally considered a convenience tow rather than an emergency roadside assistance service, which is what AAA primarily provides for its members.
Understanding AAA Towing Policies
AAA's core mission is to assist members with unexpected breakdowns and roadside emergencies that render their vehicle inoperable. These services are designed to help when your car experiences a sudden mechanical failure or an immediate issue while on the road, such as:
- Engine breakdowns: When your car won't start or stalls unexpectedly.
- Flat tires: If you have a flat and cannot safely change it yourself.
- Dead batteries: Requiring a jump-start or battery replacement service.
- Lockouts: When you're locked out of your vehicle.
- Fuel delivery: Running out of gas in an inconvenient location.
However, a vehicle with expired registration is often still operational but legally unfit for driving. Towing it in such a scenario falls outside the scope of an emergency roadside service because there is no immediate mechanical failure that occurred during travel. It's considered moving a vehicle for non-emergency reasons, like transporting it for administrative reasons rather than due to a breakdown.
Why Expired Registration Tows Are Different
Towing a vehicle solely due to expired registration is not a response to a mechanical failure or an unforeseen event that happened on the road. Instead, it addresses a legal compliance issue. AAA's services are structured to cover unforeseen events that happen on the road due to vehicle malfunction, not pre-existing administrative or legal problems with the vehicle's status.
| Towing Scenario | AAA Coverage (General) | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Breakdown | Yes (e.g., engine failure, transmission issues, overheating) | Considered an emergency; vehicle is inoperable due to an unforeseen fault, making it unsafe to drive. |
| Flat Tire/Dead Battery | Yes | Standard roadside assistance for common, immediate issues that hinder vehicle operation. |
| Accident Tow | Yes (often to a qualified repair shop) | Emergency service for vehicles damaged in a collision, rendering them inoperable or unsafe for driving. |
| Expired Registration | No (unless combined with an actual mechanical breakdown) | Considered a convenience tow; the vehicle's primary issue is legal status, not a mechanical emergency. |
| Voluntary Relocation | No (e.g., moving a car from an old house to a new one) | Non-emergency transport, not covered by roadside assistance as there's no breakdown or accident involved. |
What to Do If Your Vehicle Has Expired Registration
If your vehicle's registration has expired and you need to move it, you will generally need to seek alternatives to AAA roadside assistance:
- Contact a Private Towing Contractor: The most common solution is to hire a private towing company. These companies specialize in various types of vehicle transport, including non-emergency moves, and will quote you a price for the service. You will be responsible for the full cost of the tow.
- Renew Your Registration: The ideal long-term solution is to renew your vehicle's registration. Driving or parking a vehicle with expired registration can lead to significant fines, penalties, and even impoundment by law enforcement. Many states offer online renewal options, making the process relatively straightforward.
- Check your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency website for specific requirements and renewal procedures.
- Be aware of any late fees that may apply.
- Temporary Moving Permit: In some jurisdictions, you might be able to obtain a temporary moving permit or one-day pass to legally move an unregistered vehicle for the purpose of getting it registered, inspected, or repaired. This varies significantly by state and local regulations.
- Understand Legal Implications: Be aware that driving a vehicle with expired registration is illegal in most places and can result in tickets, fines, or your vehicle being impounded. It can also impact insurance coverage in the event of an accident.
Key Considerations
- State Laws Vary: Vehicle registration laws, enforcement, and penalties differ significantly by state. Always check your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website for precise information regarding expired registration in your area.
- Safety and Legality First: Never attempt to drive a vehicle with expired registration if it puts you at risk of legal issues or if the vehicle has other mechanical problems that make it unsafe.
- Membership Benefits: While AAA won't tow for expired registration alone, remember to utilize your membership for genuine roadside emergencies when your vehicle breaks down unexpectedly due to mechanical failure.
In summary, for situations involving expired registration, it's best to handle the administrative aspect directly or arrange for a private tow, as AAA's services are focused on emergency mechanical assistance.
