Understanding how many guests can accompany your Costco membership helps you plan shopping trips, renewals, and budget. This guide breaks down guest rules, responsibilities, and practical tips so you can maximize your membership value.
Below is a detailed breakdown of guest policies, costs, and common scenarios to clarify what you can and cannot do with your Costco membership.
| Membership Type | Included Guests | Extra Guest Fee | Check-in Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gold Star | 1 cardholder only | $60 per additional guest | Photo ID required |
| Business | 1 cardholder only | $60 per additional guest | Business verification required |
| Executive | 2 guests | $0 for up to 2 guests | Photo ID required |
| Executive renewals | 2 guests | $0 | Photo ID required |
Costco Guest Policy Basics
Definition of a Guest
A guest is any person who enters the warehouse with a membership cardholder and is not the primary cardholder. Guests must be checked in by the cardholder at the membership desk or self-check kiosk before shopping.
Rules for Each Membership Type
Gold Star and Business memberships include access for only the cardholder, meaning no guests are permitted unless an additional guest pass is purchased. Executive memberships include two guests per visit, which renew automatically each year at no extra charge under the same membership.
How Many Guests Can You Bring Per Visit
Gold Star and Business Members
These memberships do not include guest privileges. If you wish to bring someone with you, you must purchase a separate $60 guest pass for that visit or upgrade to Executive membership.
Executive Members
Executive members may bring up to two guests at a time. These guests must be checked in with valid photo ID. You do not pay additional fees per visit for these included guests.
Additional Guest Fees Explained
When Extra Fees Apply
If a Gold Star or Business member wants a guest, they pay $60 per guest. Executive members can bring two guests at no charge, but a third guest incurs a $60 fee. Fees apply per visit and are due at check-in.
Acceptable Identification
Valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, is required for every guest. The name on the ID should match the name on the membership account when possible to avoid delays.
Maximizing Your Membership Value
- Choose Executive membership if you regularly shop with a friend or family member to avoid extra guest fees.
- Always carry valid photo ID for each guest during check-in.
- Plan bulk purchases with your included guests to make the most of each trip.
- Verify renewal dates so you retain guest privileges without interruption.
- Use member-only services like optical and pharmacy with your guests to increase savings.
FAQ
Reader questions
Can I bring more than two guests if I have an Executive membership?
Yes, you can bring more than two guests, but each additional guest beyond two costs $60 per visit.
Do guests get member pricing on items?
No, only the Executive cardholder and included guests shop with membership privileges; guests do not receive member pricing unless they have their own membership.
Is there a limit on how many times I can bring guests with Executive membership in a year?
No, there is no limit on visits or number of times you bring guests, as long as you check in up to two guests per visit at no charge.
What happens if I forget my ID when bringing guests?
You may be denied entry or required to pay a guest fee and provide alternative verification. Carrying valid photo ID ensures a smooth check-in process.