Real ID vs Costco Membership Card: Know the Difference!
As the deadline for the Real ID requirement approaches, confusion among travelers is growing. Many are mistakenly believing that their Costco membership card will suffice as a form of identification to board domestic flights. The Transportation Security Administration (T.S.A.) is urging travelers to educate themselves on the differences between a Real ID and a Costco membership card to avoid any issues at airport security checkpoints.
What is a Real ID?
A Real ID is a form of identification that meets federal security standards established by the Real ID Act of 2005. This Act was passed in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks and aims to improve the security of state-issued identification cards. Real IDs are typically marked with a star in the upper right-hand corner to indicate that they meet these enhanced security standards.
To obtain a Real ID, individuals must provide specific documentation, such as a valid passport or birth certificate, proof of Social Security number, and two forms of proof of residency. These documents are used to verify the individual’s identity and ensure that they are eligible for a Real ID.
What is a Costco Membership Card?
On the other hand, a Costco membership card is simply a card issued by the popular warehouse club chain to its members. While the card may contain the member’s name and photo, it does not meet the federal security standards required for air travel. Using a Costco membership card as a form of identification at airport security checkpoints will not be accepted by the T.S.A.
The T.S.A. has been receiving an increasing number of reports of travelers attempting to use their Costco membership cards as identification at airport security checkpoints. This has led to delays and confusion for both travelers and T.S.A. agents, as the cards do not meet the necessary security standards.
Why is a Real ID Necessary for Air Travel?
Starting on October 1, 2021, all travelers will be required to present a Real ID-compliant form of identification to board domestic flights in the United States. This requirement is part of the Department of Homeland Security’s efforts to enhance the security of air travel and ensure that all passengers are properly identified.
Failure to present a Real ID-compliant form of identification, such as a valid driver’s license or passport, could result in travelers being denied boarding at the airport. This could lead to missed flights, additional expenses, and significant inconvenience for travelers.
In conclusion, it is essential for travelers to understand the differences between a Real ID and a Costco membership card to avoid any issues at airport security checkpoints. While a Costco membership card may be useful for shopping at the warehouse club, it is not a valid form of identification for air travel. As the deadline for the Real ID requirement approaches, travelers should take the necessary steps to ensure that they have the proper identification to board domestic flights.
As the T.S.A. continues to remind travelers of the importance of having a Real ID for air travel, the question remains: Can travelers really afford to risk being denied boarding by relying on a Costco membership card?