Overview

• On June 4 the TSA posted on social media that Costco membership cards do not meet Real ID standards and cannot be used at security checkpoints
• A federal requirement effective May 7 mandates Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses or other approved credentials for domestic flights and entry to federal facilities
• The myth that a Costco card suffices dates back to at least August 2021 and resurfaces periodically, according to TSA Pacific spokesperson Lorie Dankers
• Travelers presenting Costco cards risk delays, extra screening and an identity verification interview at airport checkpoints
• Acceptable forms of ID at TSA checkpoints include Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses, U.S. passports, Department of Defense IDs and DHS trusted traveler cards