Travelers planning domestic flights soon face a new hurdle: using real IDs. As of May 7, 2025, passengers must provide a valid government-issued ID to board their flights. This change affects domestic flights nationwide and applies to all travelers.
In the past, identification processes for domestic flights were more relaxed. However, with the REAL ID Act passed in 2005, security measures have tightened. The TSA now requires real IDs, such as driver’s licenses or state IDs, to verify a traveler’s identity.
The change affects various forms of identification, including Costco cards. According to the TSA’s Facebook post, their agency has clarified that Costco cards do not qualify as real IDs. However, military-issued ID cards remain an acceptable form of identification for travelers.
Travelers can find more information on what constitutes a REAL ID by visiting their state’s driver’s licensing agency website. At minimum, documentation showing full legal name, date of birth, social security number, two proofs of address, and lawful status is required.
Source: https://www.unilad.com/news/travel/tsa-ban-costco-card-airport-security-957335-20250608