TSA Reminds Travelers Costco Cards Won’t Get You Through Airport Security

Costco memberships offer a range of benefits, from access to wholesale prices to exclusive services, but using them for airport security isn’t one of them. Recently, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) addressed a growing misconception that Costco membership cards could be used as official identification at airport checkpoints.

In a humorous post on X (formerly Twitter), the TSA reaffirmed that while they enjoy Costco’s hot dogs and rotisserie chicken, the membership cards do not qualify as Real ID or any valid form of identification for air travel.

TSA Reaffirms Costco Cards Are Not Valid ID Amid Ongoing Traveler Confusion

According to TSA Pacific spokesperson Lorie Dankers, this myth resurfaces every year, often leading to confusion and potential delays for travelers. When individuals attempt to pass through airport security using a Costco card, they risk being turned away or having to undergo additional screening. The confusion can be particularly disruptive given the increased emphasis on Real ID compliance, especially for domestic air travel and access to federal buildings.

To clarify, the TSA accepts a variety of official documents as valid identification at airport checkpoints. These include Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses, U.S. passports, DHS trusted traveler cards like Global Entry, and military IDs, among others. Temporary licenses, however, are not accepted.

The full list also includes forms of ID issued by tribal nations, foreign passports, and several employment-related credentials like the TWIC or Merchant Mariner Credential. A Costco membership card does not appear anywhere on this list.

Costco Card Misuse at Airports Sparks Confusion Amid Stricter TSA Real ID Rules

The recent resurgence of this rumor was fueled by a Chowhound article suggesting that Costco cards might work as a photo ID at TSA checkpoints. The article referenced Reddit posts from users claiming successful passage using only their warehouse club cards. However, after TSA publicly corrected the misinformation, Chowhound updated the article, clarifying that while TSA officers may attempt to verify a person’s identity without an official ID, this is not a recommended or guaranteed process. With the advent of stricter Real ID enforcement, relying on such alternatives is more problematic than ever.

Ultimately, attempting to use a Costco card at an airport could lead to time-consuming questioning and possibly being denied entry. TSA officers may try to confirm identity through alternative means, like asking about past addresses, but this process isn’t swift or foolproof. As Real ID enforcement becomes stricter, travelers are urged to ensure they carry valid, TSA-approved identification to avoid disruptions. Costco cards may unlock great deals in the warehouse, but they won’t get you past airport security.