• TSA warns that Costco membership cards are not acceptable as Real ID for flying.
• Travelers must have a Real ID or another valid form of identification since May 7.
• Posts on social media from TSA humorously debunk the myth about Costco cards at security.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has reiterated that membership cards from Costco do not qualify as valid identification for air travel. As of May 7, travelers are required to present a Real ID or another accepted form of identification to pass through airport checkpoints. The TSA has advised that while Costco cards might be great for bulk purchases, they cannot replace a government-issued ID, 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,” according to CBS News and Business Insider.

In humorous posts on social media, the TSA reminded the public, "Can't fly on hotdogs and hope," emphasizing that although a Costco membership card might earn you discounts on goods, it still falls short at security checkpoints. TSA officials clarified that while the Costco card could potentially assist in confirming identity if no proper ID is available, it is definitely not an acceptable substitute, as screening would require further verification measures, according to The New York Times and Business Insider.

With the implementation of Real ID requirements already causing some confusion, the TSA continues to urge travelers to prepare adequately before heading to the airport. If a traveler presents a Costco card at a checkpoint, it could lead to unnecessary delays as TSA agents work to validate their identity, highlighting the importance of arriving with the proper documentation to ensure a smooth travel experience, as noted by CBS News and The New York Times.