Can You Use a Costco Card as ID for TSA? Let’s Break Down the REAL ID Rules

So, About That Costco Card…

Look, we’ve all been there—standing in line at TSA, rummaging through our wallets, and wondering if that Costco membership card with our awkward photo could maybe pass as ID. I mean, it’s got your name and face on it, right? But here’s the thing: TSA agents aren’t exactly known for their sense of humor when it comes to security rules.

As of May 2025, the REAL ID rules are fully in effect. And no, your warehouse club card doesn’t make the cut—even if it gets you cheap rotisserie chickens. Let me explain why, and more importantly, what will actually get you through security without a hassle.

Why Your Costco Card Gets You Nowhere at TSA

The Official Reason

According to the TSA’s website, membership cards—yes, even the fancy ones with photos—aren’t valid IDs. Why? Because they don’t have the security features the government requires. Think about it: anyone with a printer could fake a Costco card. But try forging a REAL ID with that little star in the corner—way harder.

Fun story: A buddy of mine actually tried joking with a TSA agent about using his Sam’s Club card. The agent deadpanned, “Sir, this isn’t even good for a free sample.” Ouch.

What Actually Happens If You Try

Okay, say you’re feeling bold and hand over that Costco card anyway. Here’s the play-by-play:

• First, you’ll get that look—the one TSA agents perfect during training.
• Then comes the secondary screening. They’ll ask you questions only you should know—like old addresses or car loan details.
• Finally, expect a thorough bag check. And by thorough, I mean they’ll unfold every sock.

Bottom line? Not worth the 45-minute delay just to prove a point.

REAL ID: What It Is and Why It Matters

The Basics

REAL IDs came about after 9/11 when the government realized how easy it was to fake state IDs. Now, to get one, you’ve got to show up at the DMV with paperwork proving you’re actually you—birth certificate, Social Security card, two forms proving where you live. You know, the documents we all keep in that one kitchen drawer that won’t open properly.

And here’s the kicker: If your license doesn’t have that little star in the corner? Come May 2025, it’s basically a fancy piece of plastic when it comes to flying.

What Works Instead

These will get you through security without the side-eye from TSA:

• A driver’s license with the REAL ID star (check yours now—I’ll wait)
• U.S. passport (the book, not just the card)
• Military ID
• Global Entry card (if you’re fancy like that)

Common Mix-Ups

Passport card vs. REAL ID: Here’s where it gets tricky. The passport card does work for domestic flights, but it’s not the same as a REAL ID. Confusing, right? It’s like how all thumbs are fingers, but not all fingers are thumbs.

International trips: REAL ID doesn’t help you here. You’ll need your passport book no matter what.

No REAL ID? Don’t Panic Yet

Other IDs That Might Work

If you’re REAL ID-less, these could save your trip:

• A passport from another country (obviously)
• Native American tribal ID
• TSA’s temporary ID process—but fair warning, it’s a pain

Getting Your REAL ID: A Survival Guide

Let me walk you through this DMV adventure:

1. Gather your documents. This means your birth certificate (the real one, not the cute hospital footprint), Social Security card, and two things proving you live where you say—like utility bills or a lease.
2. Make a DMV appointment. Seriously. Walk-ins wait approximately 17 business days.
3. Check your state’s rules. Some are extra picky about document formats.

Pro tip: Bring snacks. And maybe a book. It’s the DMV, after all.

Quick Answers to Burning Questions

Can kids fly without ID?

Yep! Under 18s don’t need ID if they’re with an adult who has proper ID. But airlines might have their own rules—because of course they do.

What about digital driver’s licenses?

A few states (looking at you, Arizona and Colorado) have mobile IDs that TSA accepts at some airports. It’s cool when it works, but we’re not quite in the future yet.

The Takeaway

That Costco card might be your ticket to $1.50 hot dogs, but it’s useless at TSA. With the REAL ID rules now in full effect, do yourself a favor—check your wallet now so you’re not that person holding up the security line. Been through this already? Drop your DMV horror stories in the comments!