Whatever your reasons for being here, you are welcomed in Alcoholics Anonymous.

A.A. is independent from the court system, law enforcement, treatment centers, or any government agency, and we don’t report back to anyone who sends people to us. Only you can determine whether you are an alcoholic. Many of our members first found us because they were ordered here, and many groups are happy to sign attendance sheets as a way to be helpful. What we offer is a room full of people who understand what it’s like to struggle with alcohol — and who found a way out.

A few things to know before you come:

  • A.A. meetings are not “classes”. Members gather for peer-to-peer support in an informal setting to help each other stay sober.
  • There are no teachers, counselors, or professionals. Meeting facilitators (“trusted servants”) are volunteers.
  • Attendance is free. No appointment or registration required — just show up. A.A. does not keep membership records.
  • Please keep to yourself who you saw and what you heard. We ask that you respect every member’s anonymity and privacy, and you can count on others to do the same for you.

 

How to Find A.A. Meetings

In-Person Meetings

Online Meetings

 

Getting Your Attendance Verified

Most meetings will verify attendance by signing a document or sending an email, but none are required to do so. Arrive early to ask if the meeting will sign your document, and please respect the group’s decision.

“Closed” meetings are for people who believe they have a drinking problem and want to stop drinking.

 

“Open” meetings welcome non-alcoholics as observers. If you don’t believe you have a drinking problem, please attend open meetings only.

In-Person Meetings

  • Bring your court card if one was issued, or create your own (click here for a sample form).
  • Arrive 10 minutes early, and ask the volunteer leading the meeting (called the “Secretary” or “Chair”) if they sign documentation.

Online Meetings

  • Log in 5–10 minutes early and ask the Secretary or Host for verification verbally or by chat message.
  • A volunteer will typically send a verification email with the date, start time, and meeting name. Volunteers do not contact institutions directly on behalf of attendees.
  • If you don’t receive a verification email, you will need to return the following week to request it. For this reason, in-person meetings are a more reliable option.
  • If you do attend online, choose a meeting that meets daily or has its own dedicated email address.
  • Central Office cannot provide verification or share volunteer contact information.