Callum Jones
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has issued a savage response to one traveler after sharing an important update on what passes as a REAL ID.
While traveling is meant to be a fun experience, there's no doubt that the actual airport experience can be stressful.
Whether it be being instructed to quickly take your shoes and belt off at security, or the mad rush to the gate, there's certainly a lot to be mindful of.
If you are boarding an internal flight within the US then you don't need a passport; however, you will need to have some form of identification to hop across the country.
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And as of May 2025, US citizens have had to ensure their IDs are REAL compliant in order to travel, though this has raised some questions.
Twitter user Matthew Cappucci posted a photo of his bright yellow Waffle House customer card and asked whether it was sufficient.
"TSA might want REAL ID, but I have the realest ID," Cappucci jokingly captioned the social media post. 'Matthew Cappucci, Meteorologist', the card stated, alongside the US flag in the corner.
However, the TSA was quick to respond to the viral Twitter post with a savage statement.
The agency wrote: "Respectfully, no… Waffle House IDs will not suffice as a Real ID alternative (sorry)."
"At least I don't have to take my shoes off to go into a Waffle House," one person joked in the comments, while a second added: "Reverse this policy now."
Earlier this month, the TSA was forced to clarify that people can't use their Costco membership card to board a flight either.
The agency posted on Facebook: "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."
So, what actually counts as a REAL ID?
Well, REAL IDs are subject to more enhanced security standards, including documentation like birth certificates, proof of Social Security number, and proof of US residency.
They are marked with a star at the top of the card, indicating compliance with federal standards.
To put it simply, passengers need to travel with a REAL ID, or an acceptable alternative form of ID, like a passport.
The TSA warns: "Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant at TSA checkpoints and who do not have another acceptable alternative form of ID will be notified of their non-compliance, may be directed to a separate area and may receive additional screening.
"This includes TSA PreCheck passengers."