TSA weighs in: What your Costco card can’t do when you fly
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You may have packed your bags, checked in early, and even remembered your favorite snack for the flight—but there's one thing you’ll want to double-check before heading to the airport: your ID.
A surprising rumor has made its way online recently, and it’s got some travelers asking the wrong question at TSA checkpoints: “Can I use my Costco card as ID?”
It’s time to clear up the confusion—because while your Costco card is great for savings, its role at airport security might not be what you think.
The myth gained traction on social media and a few food blogs, claiming that flashing your Costco card might be enough to get through airport security.
Posts even suggested that TSA agents have accepted it before!
The story made such waves that the Transportation Security Administration had to step in to set the record straight.
In a good-natured post on X (formerly Twitter), the TSA said: “We love hot dogs and rotisserie chickens as much as the next person, but please stop telling people their Costco card counts as a REAL ID—because it absolutely does not.”
Why your Costco card won’t work at TSA checkpoints
While it may have your photo and name, your Costco membership card is not government-issued and doesn’t meet federal ID requirements.
TSA spokesperson Lorie Dankers noted this rumor tends to resurface every few years and causes unnecessary delays for travelers.
Try using a Costco card at security, and you’re likely to be pulled aside for extra questioning or screening!
Also read: Don’t miss the REAL ID deadline—check now if your ID actually qualifies
What the TSA will accept instead
Starting May 7, 2025, travelers in the US must show a Real ID or another approved form of identification for domestic flights and access to federal facilities.
Here’s what qualifies:
A Costco card, library card, or temporary driver’s license won’t meet the requirements.
Also read: REAL ID deadline: How this state's transportation department is helping travelers beat the clock
What happens if you forget your ID?
In some cases, TSA may allow you to go through an identity verification process.
That might include answering questions about your address history or other personal details.
If successful, you might be allowed to proceed, but expect longer delays and additional screening.
With Real ID enforcement now in effect, relying on backup options is no longer a safe bet.
Also read: Flying soon? Check out the TSA's full list of approved IDs to avoid those dreaded airport delays!
Getting your Real ID: what to know
If you haven’t upgraded your driver’s license to a Real ID, now’s the time.
Real IDs are marked with a star in the top right corner and are issued through your state’s DMV.
You’ll need documents verifying your name, Social Security number, and address.
Requirements vary by state, so check ahead and consider making an appointment.
Travel tips for Costco members (and everyone else)
So before your next flight, take a moment to check what’s in your wallet—and what isn’t.
Your Costco card might score you great deals in the snack aisle, but when it comes to airport security, it’s best to stick to official IDs.
Read next: Discover the truth: Is there more to long DMV wait times than meets the eye?
Have you seen someone try to use a non-traditional ID at the airport? Have tips for smooth travel or funny airport encounters? We’d love to hear them!
A surprising rumor has made its way online recently, and it’s got some travelers asking the wrong question at TSA checkpoints: “Can I use my Costco card as ID?”
It’s time to clear up the confusion—because while your Costco card is great for savings, its role at airport security might not be what you think.
The myth gained traction on social media and a few food blogs, claiming that flashing your Costco card might be enough to get through airport security.
Posts even suggested that TSA agents have accepted it before!
Costco membership cards offer plenty of perks—but navigating airport security isn’t one of them. Image Source: YouTube / Cory At Random.
The story made such waves that the Transportation Security Administration had to step in to set the record straight.
In a good-natured post on X (formerly Twitter), the TSA said: “We love hot dogs and rotisserie chickens as much as the next person, but please stop telling people their Costco card counts as a REAL ID—because it absolutely does not.”
Why your Costco card won’t work at TSA checkpoints
While it may have your photo and name, your Costco membership card is not government-issued and doesn’t meet federal ID requirements.
TSA spokesperson Lorie Dankers noted this rumor tends to resurface every few years and causes unnecessary delays for travelers.
Try using a Costco card at security, and you’re likely to be pulled aside for extra questioning or screening!
Also read: Don’t miss the REAL ID deadline—check now if your ID actually qualifies
What the TSA will accept instead
Starting May 7, 2025, travelers in the US must show a Real ID or another approved form of identification for domestic flights and access to federal facilities.
Here’s what qualifies:
- Real ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID
- Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
- US passport or passport card
- Trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- US Department of Defense ID
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing card
- Federally recognized Tribal Nation ID (including Enhanced Tribal Cards)
- Foreign passport
- Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
- Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
- Merchant Mariner Credential
A Costco card, library card, or temporary driver’s license won’t meet the requirements.
Also read: REAL ID deadline: How this state's transportation department is helping travelers beat the clock
What happens if you forget your ID?
In some cases, TSA may allow you to go through an identity verification process.
That might include answering questions about your address history or other personal details.
If successful, you might be allowed to proceed, but expect longer delays and additional screening.
With Real ID enforcement now in effect, relying on backup options is no longer a safe bet.
Also read: Flying soon? Check out the TSA's full list of approved IDs to avoid those dreaded airport delays!
Getting your Real ID: what to know
If you haven’t upgraded your driver’s license to a Real ID, now’s the time.
Real IDs are marked with a star in the top right corner and are issued through your state’s DMV.
You’ll need documents verifying your name, Social Security number, and address.
Requirements vary by state, so check ahead and consider making an appointment.
Travel tips for Costco members (and everyone else)
- Check your ID before heading to the airport—make sure it’s Real ID-compliant or bring your passport.
- Save your Costco card for the snack aisle, not the security line.
- Help others out. If you hear someone repeating the rumor, gently share the facts.
So before your next flight, take a moment to check what’s in your wallet—and what isn’t.
Your Costco card might score you great deals in the snack aisle, but when it comes to airport security, it’s best to stick to official IDs.
Read next: Discover the truth: Is there more to long DMV wait times than meets the eye?
Have you seen someone try to use a non-traditional ID at the airport? Have tips for smooth travel or funny airport encounters? We’d love to hear them!
