The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has reminded travelers that Costco membership cards do not qualify as valid identification at airport checkpoints. The deadline to obtain a Real ID or other acceptable forms of identification was May 7, and passengers who don’t have one may face delays and travel headaches.
According to the TSA, valid forms of identification include driver’s licenses, state-issued Enhanced Driver’s Licenses, U.S. passports, and more. Costco membership cards are not accepted as a form of ID and can lead to additional screening and questioning.
The rumor that Costco cards substitute for Real IDs originated from a food blog article, but the TSA has consistently stated that they do not accept such cards. In fact, if someone tries using a Costco card at an airport, they will likely be pulled from the checkpoint line for further verification of their identity.
To avoid any issues, travelers should leave their Costco membership cards at home and ensure they have obtained or are in the process of obtaining a valid form of identification before booking their next flight.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/travel/2025/06/07/costco-card-real-id-tsa-rumor/84088409007