News TSA warns fliers about another major chain membership card that can’t be used as REAL ID Published: Jul. 02, 2025, 12:16 p.m.

The TSA has clarified that Waffle House IDs are not acceptable alternatives to REAL ID at airport security checkpoints. It was responding to a viral social media post with over 2.1 million views.

The TSA clarified that a Costco membership card is not a valid Real ID for airport security checkpoints, despite some travelers' confusion after new Real ID rules took effect.

TSA said a Costco membership card does not meet Real ID requirements, saying it will get you a cheap hot dog but won't get you on a flight.

Costco membership cards will not function as Real IDs at airports, the TSA said on social media.

Yes, it does have your picture, your name and a star, but a Costco membership card is not a replacement for a Real ID.

Last week, TSA debunked a rumor that claimed airport security agents would accept the grocery store membership card in place of a Real ID.

The administration clarified what counts as REAL ID in a social media post, after the act was implemented last month.

The TSA attempted to dispel rumors on social media that using a Costco card is equivalent to using a REAL ID to get through airport security.

Your Costco card grants you access to a lot of deals and discounts, but don't expect it to help when going through TSA at the airport.

REAL ID members only: Why TSA advises against using Costco cards as valid identification and what to know about travel in Tennessee.

The Transportation Security Administration took to X this week to remind flyers that, despite rumors on social media, Costco and other membership club cards don't count for screening.