Mirror Review
June 9th, 2025
A recent social media post from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has gone viral for setting the record straight: your Costco membership card won’t get you through airport security.
This funny—but important—reminder comes as the U.S. begins full enforcement of the REAL ID Act, which officially took effect on May 7, 2025.
The post reads, “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.”
Let’s break down why this Costco Card REAL ID mix-up happened, what the REAL ID is, and what you actually need to fly.
Why the Costco Card – REAL ID Confusion?
The mix-up seems to come from one small detail: the star.
REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses usually have a star in the top corner. Coincidentally, so does the Costco membership card.
But despite the similar look, Costco cards don’t meet the federal security standards required for REAL ID. That means they won’t work as a valid ID at airport checkpoints.
What Exactly is a REAL ID?
The REAL ID Act, passed in 2005, was created to improve the security of identification documents. It was part of a recommendation from the 9/11 Commission, urging the federal government to set higher standards for IDs like driver’s licenses.
- A More Secure Standard:
A REAL ID is a federally compliant state-issued driver’s license or ID card that is more secure than a standard license. To obtain one, applicants must provide more personal documentation.
- National Security Goal:
The goal is to improve the reliability and accuracy of identification documents to prevent fraud and inhibit terrorists from using fake IDs.
As stated by Secretary Kristi Noem, “REAL ID helps ensure that travelers are who they say they are and prevents fraud by criminals, terrorists, and illegal aliens.”
- Where It’s Required:
Since May 7, 2025, anyone 18 or older flying within the U.S. needs one of the following:
- A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID
- Another acceptable form of ID
This also applies to anyone entering federal buildings or nuclear power facilities.
Do I Have a REAL ID?
If you have renewed your driver’s license in the last few years, you may already have a compliant ID.
- Look for the Star:
Most REAL ID-compliant cards have a symbol, which in most states is a star, in the upper-right corner.
- Enhanced IDs:
Some states, including Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington, issue “enhanced” IDs. These don’t have a star but feature a U.S. flag icon and are valid for land and sea travel to Canada and Mexico, as well as domestic flights.
What Can Be Used as a REAL ID for Travel?
If you don’t have a REAL ID, don’t worry. The TSA accepts several other forms of identification. These include:
- U.S. passport or U.S. passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID
- Permanent resident card
- A state-issued Enhanced Driver’s License
- Foreign government-issued passport
What if I Don’t Have a REAL ID?
Even after the enforcement date, if you arrive at the airport without a REAL ID-compliant license or an acceptable alternative, you may still be able to fly.
- Travelers with non-compliant IDs will be directed to an area for additional screening.
- TSA officers may ask for personal info like your name and address to confirm your identity.
- If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to proceed to the screening checkpoint, though you may face extra screening.
Ultimately, while your Costco membership offers great deals, it can’t be used for airport identification.
The TSA’s recent post is both funny and important: check your ID before you fly. And next time you’re heading to the airport, leave the Costco card in your wallet—save it for the rotisserie chicken run, not the security line.
