If you're heading to the airport any time soon, there’s a new rule you’ll want to pay close attention to — because a card many of us keep on hand is no longer accepted at security.
Airport security procedures have steadily tightened over the past decade, and now the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has introduced a fresh update that’s catching many travellers off guard.
While domestic flights in the United States have traditionally had more relaxed ID requirements compared to international travel, that’s no longer the case.
As of 7 May 2025, passengers flying within the US must present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification in order to board their flight.
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Standard driver’s licences or state-issued IDs that meet federal REAL ID standards are now required, leaving behind several alternative forms of ID that some passengers may have previously used in a pinch.
One card in particular has sparked both confusion and humour online: the Costco membership card.
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The popular wholesale retailer’s card, which features a member’s photo and name, had occasionally been used by some flyers to get through security.
However, TSA has now made it abundantly clear that this is no longer acceptable.
In a Facebook post dated 4 June, the agency wrote: “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.”
Unsurprisingly, the post was met with a mix of amusement and disbelief. One commenter joked: “I mean at least it has a STAR on it,” referencing the star symbol found on REAL IDs. Another added: “I’m pretty sure that the Costco card is stronger than some passports.”
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A third chimed in: “So, you're saying we should bring you a chicken?”
Still, not everyone found the update funny. One frustrated traveller recalled a past experience, writing: “TSA literally asked me for ‘any other form of photo ID, even a Costco card would work’ when I forgot my license a few years ago.”
To clear up any lingering confusion, TSA also confirmed in a later post on 5 June that military-issued IDs remain acceptable: “Here’s a question we’re asked a lot: ‘Can you travel using a military ID?’ Answer: Yes! 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.”
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The change is part of the REAL ID Act, passed in 2005 following the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation to standardise identity verification processes for increased national security. Though the law has been in place for years, its enforcement has only recently become mandatory.
For those unsure whether they have a REAL ID, the TSA website — under the "How do I get a REAL ID?" section — advises visiting your state’s licensing agency website. To apply, you’ll typically need documents that prove your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of address, and lawful status.