Although official REAL ID-compliant documents exist, some travelers who have yet to get a proper REAL ID are turning to rather unorthodox methods—such as using their Costco membership card—to try and pass as compliant for boarding domestic flights. Apparently enough people have tried to use this card, typically warranting only shopper saving deals, that TSA has taken to X to urge travelers to ‘please stop.’
In the post, TSA jokes about loving Costco’s ‘hotdogs and rotisserie chickens’ just as much as the next person, but informing people a Costco card does not work as a REAL ID-compliant document. Surely, a clarification they never expected they’d have to make.
The hilarious, but apparently necessary reminder was met with even funnier replies. The Greensboro Police Department replied, asking “In theory, would one be able to bring a whole rotisserie chicken [through] screening and continue to eat it on the other side? Asking for a friend,” while others like @ricksles stated, “A Costco membership is as real as it gets.” Some X users were even outraged TSA attempted to make light of what otherwise could be considered a stressful new ruling.
REAL IDs have been mandated to board any domestic flight since May 7th, 2025, according to the REAL ID Act. A REAL ID is indicated by a star marking, usually in the upper region of the ID card. A REAL ID is not the same as an Enhanced Driver’s License, though both forms of identification are compliant. New Yorkers can apply for their REAL ID at their nearest DMV office.
So who is spreading this rumor that a Costco card is a REAL ID-compliant document? We can’t say we’re surprised Reddit threads are to blame. And although some people swear by the Costco card in the Reddit thread, TSA has made it very clear that it is all false.
Stay informed on the latest rules TSA is enforcing as of 2025 before your next flight to ensure your upcoming trips go as smoothly as possible.