The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has debunked a recurring rumor that Costco membership cards can be used as a REAL ID. In a social media post on Wednesday, June 4, the TSA said, “We love hotdogs & 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.”
REAL IDs, which comply with federal identification standards, feature a special marking on the upper portion of the card, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Cards without this marking are not considered REAL ID-compliant and may cause delays for travelers. Flyers can use passports or other federally approved forms of identification, such as Department of Defense IDs, but not Costco cards.
“When people try to use their warehouse club cards at airports, for instance, it could lead to delays and travel headaches,” TSA Pacific spokesperson Lorie Dankers told SFGate. Dankers noted the misconception resurfaces periodically, creating confusion for travelers.
In a Facebook post on Thursday, June 5, the TSA reiterated, “Department of Defense IDs for active and retired military continue to be an acceptable form of ID at TSA checkpoints following the implementation of REAL ID last month.”
The DHS said REAL IDs will also be required at certain federal facilities and nuclear power plants. In April and May, DMV centers faced long lines as many people waited until the last minute to obtain their REAL ID cards.
Before visiting the DMV, ensure you have the correct paperwork. Many DMV offices are accepting appointments. Married women applying for a REAL ID will likely need a certified copy of their marriage certificate to prove a legal name change. Additionally, a birth certificate or passport is typically required for primary proof of identity. Some states may also require certified copies of previous marriage certificates if the name has changed multiple times.
