As the deadline for the REAL ID requirement approaches, travelers are reminded that not all forms of identification are acceptable at airport security. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recently made headlines by clarifying that a Costco membership card cannot be used as a valid ID for flying.
This announcement comes as the U.S. has begun enforcing the REAL ID rule, which requires travelers to present a compliant driver’s license or state ID when flying domestically. Starting May 7, passengers must show a REAL ID or another federally approved form of identification, such as a passport or a military ID, to board their flights.
The TSA took to social media to emphasize the importance of having the correct ID. They humorously urged people to stop suggesting that a Costco card is sufficient, stating, “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.”
This clarification follows a surge of interest in REAL IDs, which have been available for years but became mandatory only recently, following a law passed in 2005 after the 9/11 Commission report. The law aimed to enhance security by setting stricter standards for identification.
Many travelers have been rushing to secure their REAL IDs, leading to long lines at DMV offices in the weeks leading up to the deadline. Confusion about what documents are needed to obtain a REAL ID has also added to the chaos. Acceptable documents typically include a passport, birth certificate, and Social Security card.
As the deadline looms, travelers are encouraged to check their IDs and ensure they have the correct form of identification before heading to the airport. The TSA continues to remind the public about the various acceptable IDs to avoid any last-minute issues at security checkpoints.