Famous fake news has gone too far… and it turns out that millions of Americans believed (although they later laughed about it…) that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepted the popular Costco membership cards as valid documentation to pass airport security checks, as if they were a REAL ID! Does it sound like a silly story? Well, there were many (so many) who believed it.
You probably already know that on May 7, REAL ID-compliant identification became mandatory for domestic flights within the United States. Just one month later, the TSA had to issue a notification on Facebook because there was an avalanche of reactions from people believing it was real… Are we living in a country of crazy people?
The Costco card does not count as a REAL ID
Do we really have to explain this? The TSA’s post on social media left little room for doubt: “We love hot dogs and rotisserie chicken as much as anyone, but please stop telling people that your Costco card is a REAL ID, because it’s not at all”.
The clarification was blunt and generated thousands of comments on the post, unleashing humour from many readers, like one user who said: “So we have to bring them a chicken to convince them?”
Why were people confused?
You won’t believe it… Apparently, Costco membership cards also have a gold star, almost identical to the one found on REAL ID licenses… But they have nothing to do with it.
The TSA explained that only state-issued IDs that comply with federal REAL ID law are valid for boarding flights within the country (we thought it was obvious, but apparently we have to spell it out). So no, your Costco membership card won’t get you to Florida, Mary.
So…
No, even if it has a gold star, you can’t board a domestic flight with a Costco card.
What is the REAL ID?
The REAL ID Act was passed in 2005 after the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission to strengthen identity verification. But its implementation has been long, and it’s taken almost 20 years since the law was signed for it to be required at airports.
To get it, you must present certain documents: your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of residence, and proof of legal status. Each state has its own website where you can check the exact requirements.
What is the Costco membership card
The Costco membership card is the pass you need to shop at their warehouses. This chain operates like an exclusive club where only members can access its products and special prices.
With this card, you get access to their physical and online stores, as well as exclusive discounts, offers, and the ability to buy in bulk. It’s like a VIP pass to save big… and enjoy free samples along the way!
The public’s reaction
On Facebook, things spread like wildfire, and the TSA’s clarification got over 15,000 reactions! Many users took it with humour, and some even showed off their boldness by writing that they were sure the Costco card was stronger than some passports.
And of course, now it’s time to get serious. Even though this mix-up might seem funny, the TSA reminds everyone that not presenting the correct identification can stop you from boarding your flight or lead to excessive questioning to verify your identity… So the only way to travel is to meet the requirements (the REAL ID) before you fly. Is that clear?!
Social media is often full of funny comments and fake news, but it’s important to remember to double-check any information if you doubt its accuracy.
Only the REAL ID (the real one) will get you through security, even if a thousand other cards have a gold star, so don’t be fooled!
Carol McDaniel is a dedicated and results-driven professional with 5 years of experience and US News. Known for her strong problem-solving skills and collaborative mindset, Carol has built a reputation for delivering high-impact results across diverse teams and projects.
Throughout her career, she has demonstrated expertise in 2 core skills or areas, e.g., client relations and project coordination, and is passionate about continuous learning and meaningful contribution. Carol thrives in dynamic environments and consistently brings professionalism, adaptability, and a focus on growth to every role she takes on.