TSA Clarifies Costco Cards Not Valid ID at US Airports

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has officially clarified that Costco membership cards are not valid forms of identification for airport security checkpoints, dispelling a viral internet rumor. Despite their official appearance, Costco cards do not meet the federal standards required for a REAL ID, which is mandatory for domestic flights in the U.S. since May 7, or any acceptable alternative such as passports or DHS trusted traveler cards. The TSA's statements, often delivered with humor on social media, emphasize that retail membership cards, including those from Costco, Kroger, or CVS, cannot replace government-issued IDs and attempting to use them could result in travel delays or additional screening. This clarification comes amid ongoing efforts to educate the public on REAL ID requirements and as digital ID options, like Apple Wallet's TSA-approved Digital ID for domestic travel, are being introduced, though these also do not replace passports for international flights. Overall, travelers are urged to verify their identification status to avoid issues at airport security.