TSA Costco Cards Cannot Be Used for Travel
TSA Bans Costco Cards in Ohio Airports
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recently clarified that Costco membership cards are not valid for airport security. This announcement, posted on social media, addresses confusion following the REAL ID enforcement on May 7, 2025. Consequently, travelers must use proper identification to board domestic flights.
Why the Confusion?
Many travelers mistakenly believed Costco cards, with their gold star, qualified as REAL ID. For instance, social media rumors suggested these cards could pass security checks. However, the TSA firmly stated, “We love hotdogs & rotisserie chickens, but Costco cards don’t count as REAL ID.” This follows reports of passengers attempting to use membership cards at checkpoints. Therefore, the TSA issued a humorous yet serious warning to stop this trend.
Valid ID Requirements
Since May 7, 2025, REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses or other federally approved IDs, like passports, are mandatory. Moreover, Department of Defense IDs remain valid, but retail cards, including Costco’s, are not. Without proper ID, travelers face additional screening or denial of boarding. Thus, checking your ID’s compliance before traveling is crucial.
How to Prepare
To avoid delays, verify your ID meets REAL ID standards, marked by a star or flag. Additionally, visit your state’s DMV website for guidance on obtaining a compliant ID. Finally, leave your Costco card for shopping—it won’t get you through security.
TSA Bans Costco Cards in Ohio Airports was originally published on wiznation.com
