The Transportation Security Administration has clarified that a Costco membership card is not acceptable as a form of identification at airport security. Despite the love for hotdogs and rotisserie chickens, the TSA emphasized that a Costco card does not meet the requirements for a REAL ID. This reminder comes following the recent implementation of the Real ID requirement for domestic flights on May 7.
In addition to REAL IDs, travelers can use passports or other federally-approved forms of identification such as Defense Department-issued IDs, but not Costco cards. Department of Defense IDs for active and retired military remain valid forms of identification at TSA checkpoints post-REAL ID implementation.
REAL IDs have been available for years and the recent requirement stemmed from a 2005 law based on recommendations from the 9/11 Commission report. As the deadline approached, DMV centers experienced long lines and confusion regarding acceptable forms of identification to obtain a REAL ID.
Source: TSA clarifies that Costco cards are not valid at airport security, despite popular belief about hot dog love.
