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Frequently Asked Questions: Guidance for Travelers to Enter the U.S.

Updated Date: April 21, 2022

Since January 22, 2022, DHS has required non-U.S. individuals seeking to enter the United States via land ports of entry and ferry terminals at the U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada borders to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and provide proof of vaccination upon request.  On April 21, 2022, DHS announced that it would extend these requirements. In determining whether and when to rescind this order, DHS anticipates that it will take account of whether the vaccination requirement for non-U.S. air travelers remains in place.

These requirements apply to non-U.S. individuals who are traveling for essential or non-essential reasons. They do not apply to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents, or U.S. nationals.

Effective November 8, 2021, new air travel requirements applied to many noncitizens who are visiting the United States temporarily. These travelers are also required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. All air travelers, including U.S. persons, must test negative for COVID-19 prior to departure. Limited exceptions apply. See  CDC guidance  for more details regarding air travel requirements.

Below is more information about what to know before you go, and answers to Frequently Asked Questions about cross-border travel.

Entering the U.S. Through a Land Port of Entry or Ferry Terminal

Q. what are the requirements for travelers entering the united states through land poes.

A:  Before embarking on a trip to the United States, non-U.S. travelers should be prepared for the following:

• Possess proof of an approved COVID-19 vaccination as outlined on the  CDC  website.
• During border inspection, verbally attest to their COVID-19 vaccination status. 
• Bring a  Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative  compliant border crossing document, such as a valid passport (and visa if required), Trusted Traveler Program card, a Department of State-issued Border Crossing Card, Enhanced Driver’s License or Enhanced Tribal Card when entering the country. Travelers (including U.S. citizens) should be prepared to present the WHTI-compliant document and any other documents requested by the CBP officer.

 Q. What are the requirements to enter the United States for children under the age of 18 who can't be vaccinated?

A:  Children under 18 years of age are excepted from the vaccination requirement at land and ferry POEs.

Q: Which vaccines/combination of vaccines will be accepted?

A:  Per CDC guidelines, all Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved and authorized vaccines, as well as all vaccines that have an Emergency Use Listing (EUL) from the World Health Organization (WHO), will be accepted.

Accepted Vaccines:

• More details are available in CDC guidance  here .
• 2 weeks (14 days) after your dose of an accepted single-dose COVID-19 vaccine;
• 2 weeks (14 days) after your second dose of an accepted 2-dose series;
• 2 weeks (14 days) after you received the full series of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine (not placebo) in a clinical trial;
• 2 weeks (14 days) after you received 2 doses of any “mix-and-match” combination of accepted COVID-19 vaccines administered at least 17 days apart.

Q. Is the United States requiring travelers to have a booster dose to be considered fully vaccinated for border entry purposes?

A:  No. The CDC guidance for “full vaccination” can be found here.

Q: Do U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents need proof of vaccination to return to the United States via land POEs and ferry terminals?

A:  No. Vaccination requirements do not apply to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs). Travelers that exhibit signs or symptoms of illness will be referred to CDC for additional medical evaluation.

Q: Is pre- or at-arrival COVID testing required to enter the United States via land POEs or ferry terminals?

A: No, there is no COVID testing requirement to enter the United States via land POE or ferry terminals. In this respect, the requirement for entering by a land POE or ferry terminal differs from arrival via air, where there is a requirement to have a negative test result before departure.

Processing Changes Announced on January 22, 2022 

Q: new changes were recently announced. what changed on january 22.

A:  Since January 22, 2022, non-citizens who are not U.S. nationals or Lawful Permanent Residents have been required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the United States at land ports of entry and ferry terminals, whether for essential or nonessential purposes. Previously, DHS required that non-U.S. persons be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the United States for nonessential purposes.  Effective January 22, all non-U.S. individuals, to include essential travelers, must be prepared to attest to vaccination status and present proof of vaccination to a CBP officer upon request. DHS announced an extension of this policy on April 21, 2022.

Q: Who is affected by the changes announced on January 22?

A: This requirement does not apply to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents. It applies to other noncitizens, such as a citizen of Mexico, Canada, or any other country seeking to enter the United States through a land port of entry or ferry terminal.

Q: Do U.S. citizens need proof of vaccination to return to the United States via land port of entry or ferry terminals?

A: Vaccination requirements do not apply to U.S. Citizens, U.S. nationals or U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents. Travelers that exhibit signs or symptoms of illness will be referred to CDC for additional medical evaluation. 

Q: What is essential travel?

A:  Under the prior policy, there was an exception from temporary travel restrictions for “essential travel.” Essential travel included travel to attend educational institutions, travel to work in the United States, travel for emergency response and public health purposes, and travel for lawful cross-border trade (e.g., commercial truckers). Under current policy, there is no exception for essential travel.

Q: Will there be any exemptions? 

A: While most non-U.S. individuals seeking to enter the United States will need to be vaccinated, there is a narrow list of exemptions consistent with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Order in the air travel context.

• Certain categories of individuals on diplomatic or official foreign government travel as specified in the CDC Order
• Children under 18 years of age;
• Certain participants in certain COVID-19 vaccine trials as specified in the CDC Order;   
• Individuals with medical contraindications to receiving a COVID-19 vaccine as specified in the CDC Order;
• Individuals issued a humanitarian or emergency exception by the Secretary of Homeland Security;
• Individuals with valid nonimmigrant visas (excluding B-1 [business] or B-2 [tourism] visas) who are citizens of a country with limited COVID-19 vaccine availability, as specified in the CDC Order
• Members of the U.S. Armed Forces or their spouses or children (under 18 years of age) as specified in the CDC Order; and
• Individuals whose entry would be in the U.S. national interest, as determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security.

Q: What documentation will be required to show vaccination status?

A:  Non-U.S. individuals are required to be prepared to attest to vaccination status and present proof of vaccination to a CBP officer upon request regardless of the purpose of travel.

The current documentation requirement remains the same and is available on the CDC website . Documentation requirements for entry at land ports of entry and ferry terminals mirror those for entry by air.

Q: What happens if someone doesn’t have proof of vaccine status?

A: If non-U.S. individuals cannot present proof of vaccination upon request, they will not be admitted into the United States and will either be subject to removal or be allowed to withdraw their application for entry.

Q: Will incoming travelers be required to present COVID-19 test results?

A: There is no COVID-19 testing requirement for travelers at land border ports of entry, including ferry terminals.

Q: What does this mean for those who can't be vaccinated, either due to age or other health considerations? 

A: See CDC guidance for additional information on this topic. Note that the vaccine requirement does not apply to children under 18 years of age.

Q: Does this requirement apply to amateur and professional athletes?

A: Yes, unless they qualify for one of the narrow CDC exemptions.

Q: Are commercial truckers required to be vaccinated?

A: Yes, unless they qualify for one of the narrow CDC exemptions. These requirements also apply to bus drivers as well as rail and ferry operators.

Q. Do you expect border wait times to increase?

A:  As travelers navigate these new travel requirements, wait times may increase. Travelers should account for the possibility of longer than normal wait times and lines at U.S. land border crossings when planning their trip and are kindly encouraged to exercise patience.

To help reduce wait times and long lines, travelers can take advantage of innovative technology, such as facial biometrics and the CBP OneTM mobile application, which serves as a single portal for individuals to access CBP mobile applications and services.

Q: How is Customs and Border Protection staffing the ports of entry? 

A: CBP’s current staffing levels at ports of entry throughout the United States are commensurate with pre-pandemic levels. CBP has continued to hire and train new employees throughout the pandemic. CBP expects some travelers to be non-compliant with the proof of vaccination requirements, which may at times lead to an increase in border wait times. Although trade and travel facilitation remain a priority, we cannot compromise national security, which is our primary mission. CBP Office of Field Operations will continue to dedicate its finite resources to the processing of arriving traffic with emphasis on trade facilitation to ensure economic recovery.

Q: What happens if a vaccinated individual is traveling with an unvaccinated individual?  

A:  The unvaccinated individual (if 18 or over) would not be eligible for admission.

Q: If I am traveling for an essential reason but am not vaccinated can I still enter?

A:  No, if you are a non-U.S. individual. The policy announced on January 22, 2022 applies to both essential and non-essential travel by non-U.S. individual travelers. Since January 22, DHS has required that all inbound non-U.S. individuals crossing U.S. land or ferry POEs – whether for essential or non-essential reasons – be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and provide related proof of vaccination upon request.

Q: Are sea crew members on vessels required to have a COVID vaccine to disembark?

A:  Sea crew members traveling pursuant to a C-1 or D nonimmigrant visa are not excepted from COVID-19 vaccine requirements at the land border. This is a difference from the international air transportation context.

Entering the U.S. via Air Travel

Q: what are the covid vaccination requirements for air passengers to the united states  .

A:  According to CDC requirements [www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/noncitizens-US-air-travel.html | Link no longer valid], most noncitizens who are visiting the United States temporarily must be fully vaccinated prior to boarding a flight to the United States. These travelers are required to show proof of vaccination. A list of covered individuals is available on the CDC website.  

Q: What are the COVID testing requirements for air passengers to the United States?  

A:  Effective Sunday, June 12 at 12:01 a.m. ET, CDC will no longer require pre-departure COVID-19 testing for U.S.-bound air travelers.

• Border Security
• Transportation Security
• Airport Security
• Coronavirus (COVID-19)
• Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
• Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

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Save time getting through airport security with Trusted Traveler Programs

When you become a member of a Trusted Traveler Program such as TSA Precheck and Global Entry, you can spend less time in airport security lines and at border crossings.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) manages the Trusted Traveler Programs. These include TSA Precheck and Global Entry . As a pre-approved member, you can use expedited lanes at U.S. airports and when entering the U.S. by land or sea. TSA Precheck is for travelers departing from U.S. airports. Global Entry is for travelers entering the U.S. from international destinations by air, land, or sea. There are also programs for entering the U.S. from Canada and Mexico . 

To apply, you will need to pay a fee and provide documents proving your identity. Depending on the program, you may need to complete an interview. If approved, your program membership will last 5 years.

Apply for a Trusted Traveler Program

LAST UPDATED: December 15, 2023

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Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or let you know where to find it.

An official website of the United States government Here's how you know

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Plan your Travel

⚠   The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency expired as of May 11, 2023. This site will no longer be updated and will remain online for historical purposes only.

For current COVID-19 guidance, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) .

• Before booking your trip, check for international travel advisories  and destination-specific COVID-19 risk . Refer to individual state, territorial, tribal, and local government websites for domestic travel advisories and information about quarantine or other restrictions.   
• The UNWTO-IATA Destination Tracker is a free online tool for travelers to get information on COVID-19 requirements for international travel and the measures in place at the destination.  
• Review CDC’s considerations for Travel During COVID-19 before you go to determine your personal risk.  
• Pack Smart! Pack Safe! Know what is in your carry-on and checked bags and make sure there are no prohibited items inside before arriving at the checkpoint. As a temporary exemption from the 3-1-1 rule, TSA is allowing one oversized liquid hand sanitizer container, up to 12 ounces per passenger, in carry-on bags. These will need to be placed in a bin during the screening process. Passengers may also bring hand wipes through checkpoints.  
• Unused COVID-19 test kits do not contain dangerous goods and are typically allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage.  
• COVID-19 test kits containing diagnostic samples (e.g., nasal swabs and vials of sputum) are not allowed in carry-on baggage. These samples must be properly packaged, handled, and identified as a UN3373 Category B Infectious Substance (PDF) during transportation. Passengers should check with their carrier before packing COVID-19 test kits containing diagnostic samples in checked baggage or shipping as cargo. Individual carriers and international requirements may be more restrictive than domestic regulations. Visit FAA’s Pack Safe site for more information.  
• CDC recommends wearing a mask throughout your travel experience.   
• Consider joining TSA PreCheck ™. Members continue to be eligible for expedited screening procedures and have the shortest wait times. TSA PreCheck provides the most convenience and least amount of physical contact at the TSA checkpoint. Visit TSA PreCheck to enroll today.   
• Have a travel plan that does not rely on the U.S. government for assistance. Visit travel.state.gov for more information.   
• Make two copies of all your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.  
• Remember, if you are sick, stay home and do not travel! Contact your airline regarding their  re-booking and cancellation policies . 

*All information developed in accordance with CDC guidelines. 

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TSA Airport Security – 80 Frequently Asked Questions [2023]

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TSA General Questions

Tsa airport screening — what to expect, applying for tsa precheck, using tsa precheck, trusted traveler programs, renewing tsa precheck, tsa precheck disqualification and suspension, tsa airport screening — what to wear, what can i bring — permitted and prohibited tsa items, disabilities and medical conditions, tsa lost or damaged items, final thoughts.

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The rules for what the Transportation Security Administration, or TSA, allows travelers to bring in their luggage can be confusing and overwhelming!

For instance, are you allowed to bring food through security? And what about your bottled water? Just how much toothpaste can you pack in your carry-on? Does your razor blade need to be checked? And do these rules change if you’re flying overseas instead of domestically?

So whether it has been a while since you’ve last flown anywhere or you just want to make sure you have everything in order before your trip, it might be time for a refresher. We’ve compiled a list of commonly asked questions to help you get through your next TSA airport security checkpoint with ease.

What Is the TSA?

The TSA is a  federal agency that “protects the nation’s transportation systems to ensure freedom of movement for people and commerce.” If you’re using a major airport, you’ll have to be screened by the TSA. You can only avoid the TSA by flying on charter flights or private aircraft.

Do I Have To Comply With TSA?

To access your flight, you will most likely have to go through a TSA security checkpoint. Once the screening process at the airport has begun, you are required by law and by the TSA to go through the screening.

TSA screeners do not have law enforcement authority, so they can’t arrest you — but they can call airport police who can arrest you.

How Early Should I Arrive at the Airport Prior To My Flight’s Departure?

TSA doesn’t provide guidelines on when they suggest you arrive at the airport . TSA directs people to contact the airline they are flying with as times may vary depending on the airport and date of travel.

However, in general, 2 hours for a domestic flight and 3 hours for international flights are good standards. Always allow time for parking/shuttle transportation, airline check-in, obtaining a boarding pass, and going through the TSA security screening process.

You may check how busy the airport is likely to be on your specific day and time of travel based on historical data by downloading the  MyTSA app . See more FAQs on this app below.

Can I Lock My Checked Suitcase and How?

Yes, you can lock your luggage, but you’ll need to use a TSA-approved lock so that TSA screeners can open it if your bag is selected for inspection. If you don’t use this type of lock, TSA screeners will simply cut off the locks if they need to get into your bag.

What Are the Size Restrictions for Carry-on Bags?

Size dimensions of carry-on baggage allowed in the cabin of the aircraft are regulated by individual airlines, not the TSA. Be sure to contact your airline to confirm what is allowed.

I Forgot My Identification — Can I Still Get Through Security?

Even if you arrive at the airport without proper ID, either because it is lost or just left at home, you may still be allowed to fly. TSA has other ways to confirm your identity, like using publicly available databases. You may have to provide certain information for them to do this.

If your identity cannot be verified in this way, you will not be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint and cannot board your flight.

I Am Unable To Renew My License Due To COVID-Related Closures. Are There Any Accommodations in Place?

Due to COVID-19, the TSA has made changes to accepted forms of IDs. TSA issued a statement that notes “if your driver’s license or state-issued ID expired on or after March 1, 2020, and you are unable to renew at your state driver’s license agency, you may still use it as acceptable identification at the checkpoint. TSA will accept expired driver’s licenses or state-issued ID a year after expiration.”

This is still in place as of 2023 but may change in the future.

What Should I Expect at the TSA Security Checkpoint?

First, be sure to have your ID and boarding pass out for inspection. Unless you have TSA PreCheck or qualify for reduced procedures (such as children or seniors), you will have to put the following items in a bin that gets screened separately:

• A clear quart-size plastic bag with any liquids
• Laptop, tablets, or other electronics larger than a cell phone

Other common items you might need to remove (or place in your personal or carry-on luggage ):

• Jacket or outerwear
• Metal items, such as coins

Place your personal items (such as a purse or laptop bag) as well as your carry-on bag on the conveyor belt. Proceed to the metal detector or the full-body scanning machine or opt-in for enhanced screening procedures, such as a pat-down. After you are through, you may collect your belongings and proceed to your gate.

Is There a Faster Way To Get Through Security?

Yes. TSA’s PreCheck program offers access to expedited security lines. If you frequently travel internationally, Global Entry may be a better option as it also includes PreCheck membership. See more FAQs regarding the benefits of it below.

What Is Done To Protect My Privacy During Screening?

Per the TSA , “automated target recognition software detects any metallic and non-metallic threats concealed under clothing by displaying a generic outline of a person on a monitor attached to the advanced imaging technology unit highlighting any areas that may require additional screening.”

The generic outline of a person will be identical for all passengers. If there isn’t an alarm, a green “OK” appears on the screen with no outline.

What Can I Do To Prevent an Alarm?

Remember to remove all metal items (such as belts and watches) and other items from your pockets before you go through screening. You should also avoid wearing clothes, shoes, and jewelry that have a high metal content.

Follow instructions and stand where you are directed. This will reduce the likelihood that a pat-down screening is necessary.

What Can I Expect During Pat-down Screening?

The TSA officer will explain the pat-down process before and during the screening. The officer that conducts the screening will be of the same gender. Remember that any time during the screening process, you can request a private screening and are allowed to have a witness of your choice present.

Since a pat-down screening is conducted to determine whether prohibited items are concealed under clothing, sufficient pressure must be applied to ensure detection. You should inform the officer if you have a medical condition or any areas that are painful when touched.

Why Would I Receive Pat-down Screening?

Pat-down screening is only used to resolve alarms unless otherwise requested by the passenger as an alternative to metal detectors and imaging technology.

What Are the Screening Procedures for Transgender Persons?

Transgender persons will be screened as he or she presents at the security checkpoint. Remember that at any time during the screening process, they can request to speak with a supervisor and are allowed to have a witness of their choice present.

Whether or not an alarm is triggered, a private screening can always be requested.

Will Children Receive a Pat-down Screening?

TSA has modified screening procedures for children under 12 that reduce the likelihood of pat-down screening. If an alarm is triggered, TSA officers will work directly with parents to resolve any alarms.

Read more about TSA’s procedures for screening children .

What Is the Pat-down Procedure for Seniors?

Generally, seniors can leave on their shoes and a light jacket during TSA screening. Passengers 75 and older who are unable to stand for screening will be screened through other security methods.

If an alarm is triggered, they may be required to remove these items for further screening or undergo a pat-down screening.

Can I Request a Pat-down Screening Instead of Going Through the Machine?

Yes, you may request a pat-down screening as an alternative to metal detectors and imaging technology. Simply approach any TSA officer and inform them of your preference.

Can I Take My Pet Through the Security Checkpoint?

Yes, pets are allowed through the security checkpoint. First, you must remove your pet from the carrying case and place the case through the X-ray machine. Animal carriers will undergo a visual and/or physical inspection.

While the pet is out of their case, be sure to maintain control of your pet with a leash, and remember to remove the leash when carrying or walking your pet through the metal detector.

Note that separate procedures for service animals apply. See that section below for more details.

Is Imaging Technology Safe?

Per the TSA , “advanced imaging technology (or AIT) is safe and meets national health and safety standards. In fact, the energy emitted by millimeter wave technology is 1000 times less than the international limits and guidelines.”

You are also able to opt out of this screening in favor of physical screening unless your boarding pass indicates that you have been selected for enhanced screening.

What Can the MyTSA App Do?

The MyTSA app provides airline passengers with 24/7 access to airport security information. It includes a search function for items that can or can’t go in your carry-on or checked luggage, helpful tips for preparing for security, and both real-time and historic data for wait times at TSA checkpoints.

How Can I Download the MyTSA App?

The MyTSA app is available for iOS  and Android .

How Do I Report Wait Times?

You may report wait times under Checkpoint Wait Time on the My Airports screen. You must be within a half-mile radius of the airport to report wait times.

Why Can’t See Any Wait Times on the App?

Wait times are kept for 2 hours, so if no one has reported within that time frame, no wait times will appear.

Who Can I Contact for Assistance With the App?

For assistance with the MyTSA app, please email your inquiry to TSA.

TSA PreCheck

What is tsa precheck.

TSA PreCheck allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to go through expedited security screening at TSA airport checkpoints for domestic and outbound international travel.

At the TSA PreCheck lanes at more than 150 airports nationwide, members do not have to remove articles of clothing (shoes, belts, light jackets) at the security checkpoint and can even keep their laptops and 3-1-1 liquids in their bags.

How Much Does It Cost To Apply for TSA PreCheck?

There is a non-refundable $78 fee that will cover 5 full years of TSA PreCheck membership.

Many cards reimburse this fee, so be sure to check out our article covering the best credit cards for complimentary Global Entry and TSA PreCheck .

Does the Name on My Airline Reservation Have To Match the Name on My Application?

Yes, and this is very important. The name submitted on your airline reservation must be an exact match to the name you provided on your application.

How Can I Find an Enrollment Center?

Find a TSA PreCheck enrollment center by entering a postal code, city, or airport code in the search box on TSA’s website .

How Do I Apply for TSA PreCheck?

To apply, complete a TSA PreCheck application online or at an enrollment center near you. Most people will receive a notification that they have been approved in less than 2 weeks.

You will then have to schedule a visit to an enrollment center for a short interview and show proof of identity, citizenship, and submit your fingerprints. Once this is completed, you will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) by mail.

Who Can Apply for TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck is open to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and lawful permanent residents.

Is There Any Age Restriction To Apply for TSA PreCheck?

There is no age restriction to apply for TSA PreCheck, however, be aware that kids ages 17 and under traveling with an eligible parent or guardian with a TSA PreCheck indicator on their boarding pass can use TSA PreCheck for free.

Previously, this was age 12 and under, but as of May 2023 , “Teenagers aged 13-17 may now accompany TSA PreCheck enrolled parents or guardians through TSA PreCheck screening when traveling on the same reservation and when the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on the teen’s boarding pass.”

Will I Receive an ID Card or Other Credential To Use TSA PreCheck Lanes?

No, you will not receive any credentials to use the TSA PreCheck lane. A TSA PreCheck indicator must be printed on your boarding pass and embedded in the barcode if you are eligible for TSA PreCheck on your flight.

Can I Access the TSA PreCheck Lane by Showing My Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI Card or TSA PreCheck Approval Letter?

No. To use the TSA PreCheck lane, you must include your Known Traveler Number in the appropriate field of your airline reservation, and the TSA PreCheck indicator must be visible on your boarding pass.

Can I Use TSA PreCheck When Flying From a U.S. Airport Internationally?

Yes. TSA PreCheck is available when you depart from a U.S. airport to a foreign country, and for domestic, connecting flights after you return to the U.S.

You cannot use TSA PreCheck at international airports.

Can My Family Members Also Use the TSA PreCheck Lane?

Children aged 12 and younger may use the TSA PreCheck lane when traveling with a parent or guardian who has the indicator on their boarding pass. Any child 13 and older who does not have a TSA PreCheck boarding pass must go through standard security lanes. If the child is aged 13 to 17 and traveling on the same reservation as a parent or guardian, it should be automatically included as of May 2023.

If I Am TSA PreCheck Eligible, Am I Guaranteed Expedited Screening?

No, TSA PreCheck does not guarantee expedited screening. If you do not have a TSA PreCheck marker on your boarding pass, you must go through the regular security lane.

Which Airlines or Airports Participate in TSA PreCheck?

Check the TSA’s website for a current listing of participating airports and airlines.

What Is the Difference Between Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, and the Other Trusted Traveler Programs?

TSA PreCheck provides expedited security screening benefits for domestic flights. Global Entry provides the TSA PreCheck benefit plus expedited U.S. customs screening for international air travelers when entering the U.S.

Learn how to apply for Trusted Traveler Programs NEXUS (for entry into the U.S. and Canada) or SENTRI (for entry into the U.S. from Mexico) in our detailed program guides.

How Do I Use My Known Traveler Number or KTN?

Once you are approved for TSA PreCheck, you will receive your KTN by email. If you didn’t, or simply don’t remember, you can look up your KTN .

From here, you will want to add your KTN to all previous reservations and update your profile with other airlines. You will do this by contacting each airline individually.

Make sure your name and birthdate match exactly to receive your Trusted Traveler benefits.

I Have More Than 1 KTN. Which Should I Use?

You may use any active KTN that you have been assigned. However, if 1 KTN comes with more privileges (for example, Global Entry when you are traveling internationally), be sure to use that 1 to not miss out on any benefits.

How Much Does TSA PreCheck Renewal Cost?

The cost to renew is the same as initial enrollment — $78 for 5 years — if you renew in person. If you renew online the cost is $70.

How Soon May I Renew My TSA PreCheck Membership?

You may renew your membership up to 6 months before the expiration date to ensure you don’t have any lapses due to processing time.

Will I Be Notified When I Am Eligible To Renew My TSA PreCheck Before It Expires?

Yes, the TSA states that it will send a renewal notification to members who have a valid email and/or phone number on record.

Will I Keep My Same KTN After I Renew?

Yes, you will keep the same number as long your membership is renewed within 1 year of expiration. After 1 year, you will receive a new KTN if approved.

Can I Be Disqualified/Suspended From TSA PreCheck?

Yes. Per the TSA , “if you commit certain violations of federal security regulations, you can be denied expedited screening for a period of time.” These violations include, but aren’t limited to:

• Interference with security operations
• Access control violations
• Providing false or fraudulent documents
• Making a bomb threat
• Bringing a firearm, explosive, or other prohibited item to an airport or on board an aircraft

The time you are disqualified “is related to the seriousness of the violation and/or a repeated history of regulatory violations.”

What If I Received a Preliminary Determination of Ineligibility Letter?

If TSA finds information that could potentially disqualify you for TSA PreCheck , it will send a letter with instructions on how to proceed.

May I Keep Head Coverings and Other Religious, Cultural, or Ceremonial Items on During Screening?

Yes, you may keep these items on during your TSA screening. However, be aware that you may be required to undergo additional security screening if an alarm is triggered. If the alarm cannot be resolved through a pat-down, you may ask to remove the head covering in a private screening area.

What Type of Shoes Should I Wear Through Security?

Shoes that are easy to slip off and on at the checkpoint are the best choice. Many people also prefer to wear socks so that they are not touching the ground with their bare feet.

Should I Remove My Body Piercing?

Certain metal body piercings may cause the machines to alarm and a pat-down may be required. If additional screening is required, you may be asked to remove your body piercing in private as an alternative to the pat-down.

Are There Any Special Rules for Seniors (Over 75)?

Yes. Seniors 75 and older can leave their shoes and light jackets on during screening. If an alarm is triggered, they may still need to remove these items.

What Clothing Will I Need To Remove To Go Through TSA?

Unless you have TSA PreCheck, you will need to take off or remove the following items and place them in a bin or your carry-on luggage:

• Jacket or bulky outerwear

This list is not all-inclusive. Other items, such as headbands or glasses, may interfere with screening and must be removed as directed by TSA.

What Is the “3-1-1 Liquids” Rule?

TSA allows each passenger to carry liquids, gels, and aerosols in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces (or 100 milliliters). All travel-size containers must fit inside 1 quart-size bag. Common travel items that must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule include toothpaste, liquid makeup, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash, and lotion.

Are Breast Milk and Formula, Baby Food, Juice, and Other Medically Necessary Liquids/Gels Exempt From the 3-1-1 Liquids Rule?

Breast milk, formula, and juice can be brought in your carry-on baggage in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters. You may also bring gel or liquid-filled teethers and canned, jarred, or processed baby food in carry-on baggage. These items should be separated from other liquids and gels.

Ice packs, freezer packs, frozen gel packs, and other accessories required to cool formula, breast milk, and juice are also allowed in your carry-on. These items may be subject to additional screening.

The TSA also makes exceptions for other medical items such as insulin and eye drops. Just make sure to present these items to the security officer when you reach the checkpoint.

May I Pack Food in My Carry-on or Checked Bag?

Yes, you may pack food in both your carry-on or checked bag, but all food will undergo X-ray screening. Foods that are liquids, gels, or aerosols must still comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

Do Vitamins and Medications Need To Be Packed in Their Original Containers?

While keeping medications and vitamins in their original labeled containers may expedite the screening process, it’s fine to transfer them into smaller containers.

May I Pour Shampoo and Other Liquids or Gels Into Unmarked, Travel-size Containers?

Yes, refillable travel-size containers are allowed as long as they conform to the 3-1-1 rule.

What Is the Policy on Powders? Are They Allowed?

As of June 30, 2018, powdered items such as coffee, spices, and baby powder in excess of 12 ounces are subject to additional screening. You may be asked to remove them if they’re judged dangerous or if TSA is unable to identify them.

To expedite your time going through security, place powders in your checked bag, if possible.

Can I Bring Film Through the Security Checkpoint?

Yes, but to expedite your screening, take your film out of all canisters and wrappers and place it in a clear bag. Don’t keep any film in any luggage or baggage that will be checked.

Regarding undeveloped film, the X-ray machine that screens your carry-on baggage at the passenger security checkpoint will not affect undeveloped film under ASA/ISO 800.

The X-ray machine will not impact digital cameras or memory cards.

Can I Bring Makeup in My Carry-on?

Makeup is subject to the same liquid and gel rules as all other substances, so if you’re bringing liquid mascara, lip gels, or other similar items, they will need to be placed in your quart-size plastic bag in 3.4-ounce or smaller containers. Powders are subject to the rules noted above.

Lipstick, solid lip balms, and other solid beauty products, such as compressed blush and eyeshadows, are not subject to the rules and can be carried in your hand luggage without restriction.

What Are the Rules for Bringing Deodorant in My Carry-on?

Standard stick deodorant is fine to bring on a plane in your carry-on bag with no restrictions.

Gel or spray deodorant is subject to the 3-1-1 restrictions and may not be carried on in excess of 3.4 ounces.

I’m Bringing Birthday or Holiday Gifts. How Do To Pack Them?

Do not pack wrapped gifts in either your carry-on or checked baggage, as the TSA may be required to unwrap them for inspection. A good alternative is to place the gift in a gift bag or simply wrap your gift once you arrive.

What Are the TSA Rules for Lithium Batteries?

Loose lithium batteries are not permitted in checked bags. If your batteries are installed in a device (such as a camera), you can pack the device in either a checked bag or a carry-on, but loose lithium batteries may only be transported in your carry-on luggage.

May I Bring E-Cigarettes or Cigarette Lighters on a Plane?

E-cigarettes are only permitted in carry-on luggage, not in your checked bag.

Common lighters that do not contain fuel are permitted in carry-on or checked baggage.

May I Bring Tweezers, Razors, or Scissors on the Plane?

Tweezers, electric razors, disposable razors, and their cartridges are all permitted in your carry-on luggage or personal item. Straight razors are only permitted in your carry-on as long as the blades are packed in your checked baggage.

Scissors are allowed on a plane in your carry-on bag if the blades do not exceed 4 inches. If in doubt, place them in your checked bag.

May I Bring CBD Oil or Marijuana on the Plane?

To start, the TSA does not specifically screen for illegal drugs but will report them to law enforcement if found. If you’re flying within the U.S. it is legal to travel with products that contain no more than 0.3 percent THC.

If you’re traveling internationally, you may be better off leaving these products at home unless you’ve thoroughly researched your destination’s laws and know that what you’re bringing is legal.

Read our guide on flying with marijuana for more information.

May I Bring Duty-free Liquids in My Carry-on Bags?

Duty-free liquids, such as perfume or alcohol, are permitted in excess of 3.4 ounces as long as they were purchased at a duty-free shop and placed in special tamper-evident bags.

These items must go in your checked luggage if you have to go through security again (for example, to catch a connecting flight) or if these liquids are no longer in the tamper-proof bags and exceed 3.4 ounces.

What Happens If TSA Determines I Am Traveling With an Item That Is Deemed Hazardous Material?

If hazardous materials are found in a passenger’s checked baggage, those items are brought to the attention of the airline with which the passenger is booked. The airline has the final determination of whether the item is permitted or prohibited, not TSA.

What Steps Are Taken To Screen Sensitive Items, Such as Musical Instruments or Sporting Equipment?

Any items transported as a carry-on require a physical inspection at the security checkpoint — including musical instruments and sporting equipment. Inform the TSA officer if your equipment requires special care and handling.

Check with your airline before your flight to ensure your instrument or sporting equipment meets the aircraft size requirements. We also have a detailed guide of ski and snowboard luggage policies for over 70 airlines.

Can I Bring Guns Firearms on the Plane With Me?

You can’t carry on any kind of gun or firearm-related item. The Transportation Safety Administration restricts flyers from carrying on ammunition, BB guns, air guns, firearms, flare guns, or realistic replicas of guns, though these items can be checked. They must still be unloaded, placed in a locked, hard-sided container, and declared to your airline.

Gunpowder and flares are not permitted in carry-on or checked luggage.

Do I Have To Remove My CPAP Machine From My Carry-on?

If you have a clear plastic bag, you can place the device through the X-ray. Otherwise, a nebulizer, CPAP, BiPAP, and APAP must be removed from its carrying case and undergo X-ray screening. Any facemasks and tubing may remain in the case.

What Are the Rules for Traveling With Medication?

First, know that medications and other necessary medically-necessary liquids and creams do not need to adhere to the 3-1-1 rule. As noted above, you can bring “reasonable” amounts through TSA security.

Be sure to remove them from your carry-on bag to be screened separately from the rest of your belongings. TSA recommends that medication be clearly labeled to facilitate screening, but this is not required.

I Have a Service Animal. What Type of Screening Should I Expect?

You and your service animal will be screened by a walk-through metal detector. You can choose to walk through together or you may lead the animal through separately on a leash.

If the metal detector alarms, you and your service animal will undergo additional screening, including a pat-down.

I Have an Ostomy Pouch, Do I Have To Remove It for Screening?

No, your ostomy pouch does not need to be removed for TSA screening. Inform a TSA officer that you have an ostomy pouch before you enter the screening area.

Note that the ostomy pouch is subject to additional screening and may require you to conduct a self-pat-down of the pouch outside of your clothing, followed by a test of your hands for any trace of explosives. A pat-down of other areas may also occur.

What Are the Procedures If I Have an Internal or External Medical Device, Such as a Pacemaker or Metal Implant?

Inform the TSA officer that you have an artificial knee, hip, or other metal implant, pacemaker, defibrillator, or another internal medical device. You will be directed to the Advance Imaging Technology (AIT) screening, if available, or alternatively, you would undergo a pat-down screening by a TSA officer.

You should not be screened by a walk-through metal detector if you have an internal medical device such as a pacemaker. 

I Need Assistance During Screening. Is There a Number I Can Call Before My Flight?

TSA Cares is a helpline that provides travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, and other special circumstances additional assistance during the security screening process.

Reach out to them 72 hours before traveling with questions about screening policies, procedures, and what to expect at the security checkpoint. You can call them at 855-787-2227  or  email TSA Cares .

Does TSA Gain Any Profit From Any Lost or Abandoned Items?

TSA does not keep any proceeds from lost and found items. Money from the sale of these items goes to the U.S. Department of the Treasury into a general fund used to pay the U.S. national debt.

How Do I File a Claim for a Missing or Damaged Item?

You may  file a claim with the TSA if your property is lost or damaged during the screening process.

How Do I Get Back an Item I Left at the Airport?

If you believe your item was left at the security checkpoint, contact lost and found . To retrieve the item, you must be able to describe the item, when it was lost, the color of the item, or any information identifying the item.

For items left elsewhere in the airport, please contact your airport authority.

What Happens If an ID Is Left Behind at a Checkpoint?

TSA works with the airport to alert passengers who might have left behind driver’s licenses and passports. Typically an announcement will be made over the airport speaker. If the ID is not claimed within 30 days, it is destroyed.

What Happens To Guns/Weapons Found in Carry-on Bags Left Behind?

TSA turns over all weapons detected in carry-on bags to local law enforcement authorities.

Ultimately, the TSA’s airport screening procedures are intended to prevent prohibited items and other threats to transportation security from entering the secured area of the airport. Planning ahead and packing and dressing properly can help the screening process go smoothly.

We hope we’ve answered some of your questions and that you feel prepared next time you have to head to the airport. There are a lot of rules to keep track of, so be sure to bookmark this page and check back each time you travel!

We’ve also got a great list of tips to help you sail through security and get to your gate worry-free, even in the era of COVID-19!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i travel with my medication.

Yes, you can travel with medication in both your carry-on and checked luggage, however, TSA recommends putting all necessary medication in your carry-on bag. TSA does not require passengers to have medications in prescription bottles, so you can put them in smaller containers for transport. Medication in liquid form is allowed in carry-on bags in excess of 3.4 ounces in reasonable quantities for the flight. You should tell the officer that you have medically necessary liquids at the start of the screening checkpoint process to expedite your screening. You can bring your medication in pill or solid form in unlimited amounts.

What is the 3-1-1 liquids rule?

Each passenger may carry liquids, gels, and aerosols in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters. Each passenger is limited to 1 quart-size bag of liquids, gels, and aerosols.

What is TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck allows you to get through security faster at most U.S. airports. Applying is easy and costs $78 for 5 years of benefits. You will go through a screening process to be deemed a low-risk traveler. This allows you to speed through security by not having to remove items from your carry on (like liquids and laptops), nor do you have to remove shoes, jackets, etc.

What if I have a TSA question that isn't answered in the FAQ?

The experts staffing TSA’s @AskTSA Twitter and Facebook accounts can help with things like forgotten IDs or recovering lost items. If you’re unsure what items you can bring, you can even send them a picture and they’ll send a reply.

Was this page helpful?

About Christy Rodriguez

After having “non-rev” privileges with Southwest Airlines, Christy dove into the world of points and miles so she could continue traveling for free. Her other passion is personal finance, and is a certified CPA.

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It Was Shoes On, No Boarding Pass Or ID. But Airport Security Forever Changed On 9/11

David Schaper

A traveler at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport walks to a Transportation Security Administration checkpoint on Nov. 26, 2014. Paul J. Richards/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

A traveler at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport walks to a Transportation Security Administration checkpoint on Nov. 26, 2014.

It's hard to fathom now, but we used to be able to arrive at the airport just minutes before a flight. We'd keep our shoes and coats on as we went through a simple metal detector, and virtually anyone could go right to the gate without a boarding pass or even showing an ID.

The 19 al-Qaida-affiliated terrorists who hijacked four commercial jetliners on Sept. 11, 2001, knew that and exploited lax airport security measures, strolling through metal detectors at four airport security checkpoints with ease, with deadly weapons in hand. This allowed the hijackers to commandeer those airplanes and use them as jet fuel-filled missiles as they flew them into the twin towers of the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and a field in Shanksville, Pa., killing nearly 3,000 people .

"It was so easy — a lot of us were surprised it hadn't happened sooner," says Jeff Price, who was assistant security director at Denver International Airport on Sept. 11, 2001, and is now an aviation security expert at Metropolitan State University of Denver.

Airport security at that time was carried out by private contractors, usually hired by the airlines, with few federal standards. Those security contracts usually went to the lowest bidder.

"Before 9/11, security was almost invisible, and it was really designed to be that way," Price says. "It was designed to be something in the background that really wasn't that noticeable and definitely did not interfere with aircraft or airport operations."

"You could walk up to the gate at the very last minute. You did not have to have a boarding pass," Price says. "All you had to do was go through the security checkpoint — no questions asked, no ID needed."

That forever changed on Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2001.

Now, travelers often stand in long lines at security checkpoints with wait times that can exceed an hour. We take off our shoes, empty our pockets and take laptops and other devices out of carry-on bags before stepping into high-resolution, full-body scanners, while our bags go through 3D-imaging X-ray machines. And don't forget to take your liquids of 3.4 ounces or less out of your carry-on.

Some of us enroll in known- or trusted-traveler programs such as PreCheck, surrendering some of our privacy in an effort to have a smoother expedited screening process.

Aviation security experts acknowledge that prior to 9/11, no one envisioned suicide terrorists wanting to use commercial airplanes as weapons and being willing to kill themselves in order to kill hundreds of innocent people.

Now, counterterrorism and homeland security officials in the federal government work to imagine the unimaginable and enhance defenses to prevent the ever-changing and growing threats to aviation security.

Here's a look at how airport security has evolved over the past 20 years.

Sept. 11, 2001: Terrorists hijack and crash four passenger jets

The 19 hijackers checked in for their flights at the airport in Portland, Maine, at Boston's Logan International Airport, at Liberty International Airport in Newark, N.J., and at Dulles International Airport in the Washington, D.C., area.

Two men identified by authorities as hijackers Mohamed Atta (right) and Abdulaziz Alomari (center) pass through airport security on Sept. 11, 2001, at Portland International Jetport in Maine in an image from airport surveillance tape released on Sept. 19, 2001. Reuters/Portland Police Department hide caption

Two men identified by authorities as hijackers Mohamed Atta (right) and Abdulaziz Alomari (center) pass through airport security on Sept. 11, 2001, at Portland International Jetport in Maine in an image from airport surveillance tape released on Sept. 19, 2001.

When Mohamed Atta checked in at the Portland airport with a fellow hijacker for their short flight to Boston, he was selected for additional scrutiny under what was then known as CAPPS (Computer Assisted Passenger Prescreening System). But according to The 9/11 Commission Report , "Under security rules in place at the time, the only consequence of Atta's selection by CAPPS was that his checked bags were held off the plane until it was confirmed that he had boarded the aircraft. This did not hinder Atta's plans."

Several of the other hijackers were flagged by CAPPS at the other airports, but none was questioned and they were allowed to board in the same way Atta was — without much additional scrutiny. As they strolled through metal detectors at the airports, a couple of the hijackers set off alarms, but they were quickly cleared and sent on their way after going through a second metal detector or being scanned by a hand-held wand. It's not clear what exactly set off the alarms, but according to The 9/11 Commission Report , the hijackers used knives and/or razor blades in their attacks, which they likely had on them or in their carry-on bags. Even if those weapons were detected, it wouldn't have mattered.

"The FAA allowed knives of up to 4 inches in length on board an aircraft," says Price, the aviation security expert. "So even if the hijackers would have been caught with their knives prior to boarding the plane, the screeners would have handed it right back to them. "By 8:00 A.M. on the morning of Tuesday, September 11, 2001, they had defeated all the security layers that America's civil aviation security system then had in place to prevent a hijacking," The 9/11 Commission Report states .

September and October 2001: enhanced airport security, fewer Americans flying, longer wait times in airport security lines

After the planes hit the twin towers and the Pentagon, the Federal Aviation Administration immediately ordered all remaining commercial aircraft still in the air to land at the nearest available airport. All flights remained grounded until Sept. 14. But when air travel did resume, very few Americans were willing to fly. Nonetheless, in the days and weeks after the stunning terrorist attacks, airport security immediately intensified.

Armed National Guard soldiers joined local and state police in some cities to help patrol airports and screen travelers. Knives, box cutters, razors and other types of blades were banned, and the list of other items prohibited on aircraft grew significantly.

Military police from the Massachusetts National Guard on their first day of duty at Boston's Logan International Airport on Oct. 5, 2001. Several thousand National Guard troops were called up around the U.S. to ensure airport security in the wake of the 9/11 attacks. John Mottern/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Military police from the Massachusetts National Guard on their first day of duty at Boston's Logan International Airport on Oct. 5, 2001. Several thousand National Guard troops were called up around the U.S. to ensure airport security in the wake of the 9/11 attacks.

Airport security officers began searching through carry-on bags and patting down passengers, and that, according to Price, is when wait times in airport security lines started to grow longer, even though few Americans were flying. He says authorities were "slowing down the lines at the checkpoint to do a more thorough search of passengers and baggage."

November 2001: The Aviation and Transportation Security Act creates the TSA; checked baggage screened by X-rays

Congress passed and President George W. Bush signed the law that would create the Transportation Security Administration, which would become part of the newly created Cabinet-level Department of Homeland Security.

Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta (left) meets with the CEOs of major U.S. airlines, including U.S. Airways CEO Rakesh Gangwal (right), and Federal Aviation Administration Director Jane Garvey on Nov. 15, 2001, at the Department of Transportation in Washington, D.C. Mineta called the meeting to discuss improvements in airport security. Shawn Thew/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta (left) meets with the CEOs of major U.S. airlines, including U.S. Airways CEO Rakesh Gangwal (right), and Federal Aviation Administration Director Jane Garvey on Nov. 15, 2001, at the Department of Transportation in Washington, D.C. Mineta called the meeting to discuss improvements in airport security.

In addition to creating the TSA, the Aviation and Transportation Security Act required 100% of all checked baggage to be screened by X-rays, the Federal Air Marshal Service was expanded to put more armed air marshals on many more flights, and the law required airlines to reinforce cockpit doors on their aircraft to prevent attackers from entering.

The law also mandated that the TSA oversee security for all modes of transportation, such as passenger rail (including Amtrak) and intercity bus travel. Experts say the TSA was a major step forward in improving security.

December 2001: the shoe bomber and how shoe removal at airport security checkpoints started

On Dec. 22, 2001, on an American Airlines flight from Paris to Miami, British-born terrorist Richard Reid tried to detonate explosives that he had packed in his shoes. Passengers subdued and restrained Reid as the flight was diverted to Boston, the closest airport.

This still frame from television footage obtained by ABC News and released Feb. 7, 2002, shows a shoe worn by shoe bomber Richard Reid. ABC News/Getty Images hide caption

This still frame from television footage obtained by ABC News and released Feb. 7, 2002, shows a shoe worn by shoe bomber Richard Reid.

Investigators later said that Reid had enough explosive material to blow a hole in the fuselage of the plane, but that rainy weather and Reid's foot perspiration made the fuse too damp to ignite. Reid pleaded guilty to eight terrorism-related charges in October 2002 and was sentenced to three consecutive life sentences and 110 years, with no possibility of parole. The incident led to the TSA and airlines asking passengers to voluntarily remove their shoes when going through screening at airport security checkpoints.

December 2002: deploying explosives detection systems, very detailed 3D images

The TSA meets the mandate to screen 100% of all checked luggage by deploying machines that can scan bags for explosives and other dangerous weapons in every airport in the country.

The technology used in these screening systems has improved greatly over the intervening years, according to Deb Scovel, a TSA baggage and checkpoint supervisor at Chicago O'Hare International Airport, who says today's X-ray scanners are similar to CT scanners used in hospitals.

Left: On Jan. 24, 2002, at Port Everglades in Florida, customs inspector Lance Howard (left) demonstrates the operation of the American Science and Engineering Micro-Dose 101 X-ray machine to Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Rob Bonner (center) and Immigration and Naturalization Service Commissioner Jim Ziglar. Right: A handgun inside a briefcase is displayed on the machine's screen. Joe Raedle/Getty Images hide caption

Left: On Jan. 24, 2002, at Port Everglades in Florida, customs inspector Lance Howard (left) demonstrates the operation of the American Science and Engineering Micro-Dose 101 X-ray machine to Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Rob Bonner (center) and Immigration and Naturalization Service Commissioner Jim Ziglar. Right: A handgun inside a briefcase is displayed on the machine's screen.

"The X-rays take images of it from all sides," says Scovel, "so it does an all-around picture of whatever goes inside so you see it from every point of view." She says the 3D images are so detailed that "I can tell you the difference between Irish Spring and Dove soap — yes, I can. And officers that have been here a while can do the same thing. You can tell the difference between an Apple and a Dell laptop; they're very detailed."

April 2003: Pilots start to carry firearms on board flights, and other cockpit protections

The first pilots certified under a voluntary program allowing them to carry handguns were on board flights. Bush signed the Arming Pilots Against Terrorism Act into law in November 2002, and the TSA began training flight deck personnel on how to use firearms on board, if needed, soon after.

Participants in the first class of commercial airline pilots who volunteered to carry handguns learn defense tactics on April 17, 2003, in Glynco, Ga., as part of the TSA's federal flight deck officer training program. The inaugural group of federal flight deck officer candidates spent the week learning how to use a handgun and defensive tactics. Gary Wilcox/Getty Images hide caption

Participants in the first class of commercial airline pilots who volunteered to carry handguns learn defense tactics on April 17, 2003, in Glynco, Ga., as part of the TSA's federal flight deck officer training program. The inaugural group of federal flight deck officer candidates spent the week learning how to use a handgun and defensive tactics.

Also in April 2003, the TSA announced that all airlines had met the requirement to reinforce cockpit doors on their entire fleets of planes.

Pilots and their unions continue to push for additional cockpit barriers and fortifications to protect them from possible attacks from outside the cockpit.

August 2006: liquids banned, shoe removal mandated and more air marshals added

British authorities disrupted a terrorist plot to detonate liquid explosives on board 10 commercial aircrafts bound from London to various cities in the U.S. and Canada. U.K. prosecutors alleged the would-be bombers prepared to disguise the explosives as soft drinks in 500-milliliter branded plastic bottles.

As a result, the TSA banned all liquids, gels and aerosols from passenger carry-on luggage.

Containers holding liquids and gels that were taken from passengers lie in a trash can at Dulles International Airport near Washington, D.C., on Aug. 10, 2006. Mark Wilson/Getty Images hide caption

Containers holding liquids and gels that were taken from passengers lie in a trash can at Dulles International Airport near Washington, D.C., on Aug. 10, 2006.

A month later, in September 2006, the TSA lifted the ban on liquids and amended its rule to allow airline passengers to carry liquids, gels and aerosols in containers of only 3.4 ounces or less in a single, clear, resealable 1-quart plastic bag that had to be removed from carry-on baggage when going through security screening.

August 2006 is also when the TSA began to require that all travelers remove their shoes so footwear could be screened for explosives at airport security checkpoints.

The TSA also began deploying more federal air marshals, including on international flights.

March 2008: Canine units join airport security forces

Although bomb-sniffing dogs were already being used in a limited capacity as part of transportation security, the TSA began deploying canine teams to specifically aid in the screening of cargo loaded onto passenger aircraft at U.S. airports.

The program later expanded to use dogs to detect possible explosive materials on passengers and in checked and carry-on baggage.

Sgt. Cliff Java of the San Francisco Police Department and his dog, Jacky, check luggage at San Francisco International Airport on July 3, 2007. David Paul Morris/Getty Images hide caption

Sgt. Cliff Java of the San Francisco Police Department and his dog, Jacky, check luggage at San Francisco International Airport on July 3, 2007.

December 2009: the "underwear bomber" and the installation of full-body scanners

On Christmas Day 2009 on board a Northwest Airlines flight from Amsterdam to Detroit, al-Qaida extremist Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab tried to detonate an improvised explosive device that he had hidden in his underwear.

Abdulmutallab later told FBI agents that he had been following the jetliner's flight path on his seat back's screen, as he wanted to blow up the plane over U.S. soil. Inside his briefs, he had explosive chemicals that would ignite when mixed. After going into the plane's lavatory to make final preparations, he returned to his seat and pushed a plunger to mix the chemicals.

But the volatile mix didn't explode as he intended, possibly because of excess moisture after the chemicals were inside his pants for so long. The mixture only caught fire, seriously burning Abdulmutallab, who tried to get his burning pants off before fellow passengers and crew members subdued him.

Abdulmutallab later pleaded guilty and was sentenced to life in prison.

A passenger goes through a full-body scanner at Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., on Nov. 24, 2010. Jewel Samad/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

In response to the failed attack in which a terrorist was able to sneak dangerous explosives through security, in March 2010 the TSA began installing hundreds of full-body scanners that used advanced imaging technology.

By the end of 2010, approximately 500 such machines were deployed nationwide.

December 2011: TSA PreCheck begins, vetted travelers pay to go through shorter security lines

With hundreds of millions of travelers passing through the TSA's airport security checkpoints each year, the agency wanted a better way to discern who was and who wasn't a serious threat. So it started its known- and trusted-traveler PreCheck program to provide expedited screening for those willing to pay for it and undergo a more detailed background check.

The TSA says it makes risk assessments about passengers prior to their arrival at airport checkpoints via these thorough background checks. Vetted travelers pay $85 for a five-year membership and get to go through a shorter security line where they no longer have to remove shoes and belts.

The TSA, meanwhile, says it is able to focus resources on more high-risk and unknown passengers.

June 2015: TSA flunks undercover tests

The TSA's inspector general reported that 95% of the time, TSA officers failed to detect weapons, explosives and other prohibited items that undercover agents smuggled through various airport security checkpoints.

The astronomically high failure rate led to the reassignment of Melvin Carraway, who was then the TSA's acting director . It also prompted significant changes in TSA training and procedures, including enhanced screening and increased random searches.

March and June 2016: attack outside Turkish airport security perimeter, concerns about soft targets

In June 2016, three suicide bombers who had been turned away at an airport security checkpoint opened fire with semiautomatic weapons before detonating explosive belts at Ataturk Airport's international terminal in Istanbul, killing themselves and 45 other people , while injuring more than 200.

Bullet impacts mar a window at Ataturk Airport in Istanbul on June 29, 2016, the day after a suicide bombing and gun attack targeted the airport, killing 45 people. Ozan Kose/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Bullet impacts mar a window at Ataturk Airport in Istanbul on June 29, 2016, the day after a suicide bombing and gun attack targeted the airport, killing 45 people.

That deadly assault followed a similar coordinated terrorist attack just three months earlier that killed 32 people and injured more than 300 at an airport terminal and subway station in Brussels. The incidents raised concerns about what security experts call soft targets — the areas outside the hard security perimeter where large groups of people wait at baggage claim, line up at check-in counters and kiosks or queue up to go through security checkpoints.

Some critics, including counterterrorism expert Tom Mockaitis at Chicago's DePaul University, say it exposes a flawed approach to security.

"I've seen, in this country, us waste literally millions of dollars on what I call placebo security — highly visual measures like armed guards strutting up and down in our airports, you know, creating a feeling of well-being and a feeling of security without providing any real added benefit," Mockaitis told NPR in July 2016.

March 2017: the laptop ban

The Trump administration, citing threats gathered from credible intelligence sources, prohibited travelers from certain countries from bringing laptops, tablets and other large electronic devices into the cabin on commercial flights to the United States.

John Kelly, secretary of homeland security at the time, said the intelligence indicated that terrorists were developing bombs powerful enough to bring down an airplane but small enough to be hidden inside those devices. The laptop ban affected travelers from 10 airports in eight countries with majority-Muslim populations.

"We didn't feel at the time that overseas airports had the kind of security initially that could give me a comfort that they could detect this device, the airports in those countries," Kelly said a couple of months after the ban was imposed.

The laptop ban was lifted in July 2017.

June 2017: facial recognition, biometric screening and privacy concerns

In 2017, some airlines, in collaboration with the TSA, began trials of facial recognition software that allows passengers' faces to be their boarding passes.

The system takes a photo and matches it with one on file with the airlines, speeding up the passenger-screening process and providing greater customer convenience. And because users of the system must be enrolled in the federal government's known-traveler program, it provides an extra layer of security.

But this and other biometric-screening methods, which could allow the government to track your whereabouts at home and abroad, raise significant privacy concerns, as NPR's Asma Khalid reported .

Aviation security experts say the TSA's efforts to expand the use of facial recognition and biometric screening was significantly delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic but could begin to ramp up again in the next couple of years.

September 2021: still room for improvement but layers of hard and soft security

TSA officials say aviation security continues to evolve to address ever-changing threats, with a layered approach that involves surveillance, intelligence and technology. The agency has 65,000 employees and spends billions of dollars each year in an effort to stay one step ahead of potential foreign and domestic terrorists.

Travelers pass through security screening at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on Nov. 29, 2020. David Ryder/Getty Images hide caption

Travelers pass through security screening at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on Nov. 29, 2020.

"People are very creative. The threats are very creative," says Louis Traverzo, the TSA's deputy federal security director. He adds: "It's up to us to anticipate that, and it's up to us to look at those things and try to come up with ideas to counter methods" that terrorists may come up with.

There hasn't been a successful attack against commercial aviation in the U.S. in the 20 years since 9/11, and outside experts agree that while there is still room for improvement, the TSA has been effective in preventing another terrorist attack.

Correction Sept. 10, 2021

A previous version of this story mistakenly said hundreds of millions of travelers pass through the Transportation Security Administration's airport security checkpoints each day. Those numbers pass through each year.

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Getting Through TSA Will Be Easier and Quicker in 2023—Here’s Why

The agency is enhancing its technology and protocols at almost every step of the security screening process with the hopes of reducing congestion and stress for travelers and agents alike..

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Tired of waiting in long TSA security lines? Help is on the way.

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With 2022 winding to a close, we all know that this won’t go down as the most glamorous year in air travel history. As the country’s still understaffed airlines and airports struggled to cope with a massive rebound in fliers following a pandemic-driven plummet in travel, this year will be remembered by many for its long airport lines, canceled and delayed flights , and for the heaps of lost luggage that piled up in airports at home and abroad.

While it was perhaps discouraging for many travelers, the good news is that there are a lot of enhancements underway that stand to fundamentally change—and improve—the airport experience going forward.

That’s in part due to the fact that the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has been gradually investing in technology and expanding programs that will, quite frankly, move things along at a more rapid clip. Many of these programs were actually initiated well before the pandemic and were either put on hold or put on the back burner as the country shifted gears to address the COVID crisis. But as TSA turns its sights back to these initiatives, many of the things that we’ve become accustomed to doing during the security screening process—showing TSA agents our boarding pass and a valid ID, removing liquids and laptops from our carry-ons—could soon become a thing of the past.

How TSA security screening will change in 2023 and beyond

Los Angeles International Airport is among the hubs where TSA is testing out new facial recognition technology.

Courtesy of TSA

Using your face as your ID

One of the perhaps more controversial efforts under way are pilot programs at 12 U.S. airports intended to help the TSA assess how and whether the implementation of biometric and facial recognition technology can improve the security screening process.

“TSA’s biometric strategy seeks to leverage facial recognition technology to . . . streamline the passenger experience,” a TSA spokesperson tells AFAR.

TSA has been testing biometrics as a way to identify passengers at security checkpoints for several years now. And according to the agency, it is doing so “while protecting privacy and civil liberties.” Participation in the biometric technology pilots is voluntary, and travelers can opt out, but the use of biometrics remains concerning for privacy advocates and the new tech is hardly foolproof, as Barbara Peterson recently reported for AFAR .

Nevertheless, TSA remains committed to continuing to test and expand the use of facial recognition technology. Ultimately, facial recognition systems will allow “TSA and aviation security partners to reduce reliance on physical travel documents and manual inspection,” the agency wrote in its Biometrics Roadmap , which was released in 2018 and laid the groundwork for the goals of the program over the coming years.

“Using biometrics will modernize aviation passenger identity verification,” TSA explains in its biometrics fact sheet . The hope is that “biometrics technology will result in improved accuracy and speed of identity verification, while making the passenger experience faster and more seamless.”

For now, there are 12 U.S. airports currently participating in TSA’s biometric pilot assessment program—hubs where travelers could encounter a camera that will scan their face to verify their identity when passing through security.

The airports participating in TSA’s biometrics/facial recognition pilot program:

• Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
• Baltimore–Washington International Airport (BWI)
• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
• Denver International Airport (DEN)
• Dallas–Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
• Gulfport Biloxi International Airport (GPT)
• Jackson–Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN)
• Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
• Miami International Airport (MIA)
• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
• Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC)
• Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)

No need to show TSA your boarding pass at numerous airports

Beyond your physical ID, there’s another form of documentation TSA is working to eventually eliminate its reliance on— your boarding pass . As of press time, at 206 airports across the United States, travelers no longer need to scan their boarding pass at many of the security checkpoints. At these hubs, TSA is now using Credential Authentication Technology (CAT), a system linked electronically to the flight database allowing TSA officers to confirm travelers’ flight details as well as whether they are enrolled in a trusted traveler program, such as TSA PreCheck, simply by scanning their ID.

There are currently 1,986 CAT units installed at airports across the country, and TSA’s plan is to ultimately deploy these units at all airports throughout the United States, a TSA spokesperson tells AFAR.

Passengers still need to check in with their airline and obtain a boarding pass, either a paper or electronic one, and will still need to scan their boarding pass at their gate when boarding their flight.

In order to take advantage of the CAT scanning procedure, passengers 18 years old and over will need to show valid identification, which includes a driver’s license (it will need to be a Real ID starting in May 2025), U.S. passport or U.S. passport card, U.S. Department of Defense ID, U.S. Merchant Mariner ID, Global Entry or NEXUS card, permanent resident card, or other government-issued ID.

Here are some of the airports with the new CAT technology and where travelers are likely to not be asked by TSA agents to hand over their boarding pass:

• Alaska’s Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC)
• Charleston International Airport (CHS)
• Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
• Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)
• Washington–Dulles International Airport (IAD)
• Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
• New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
• Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas (LAS)
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
• LaGuardia Airport in New York (LGA)
• Orlando International Airport (MCO)
• Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)
• Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
• Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
• Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
• Raleigh–Durham International Airport (RDU)
• Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
• Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU)

TSA posts a full and updated list of all the airports with the new CAT security systems on its website.

Leaving laptops and liquids in your carry-on

If you spy a futuristic scanner like this in your TSA security line, you could be in luck: Laptops and liquids may be able to stay in your carry-on.

Another major improvement that I personally experienced this past Thanksgiving (at Raleigh–Durham International Airport) is the integration of new Computed Tomography (CT) x-ray systems that will allow passengers to keep liquids and laptops in their luggage, which has the ability to considerably speed up often sluggish security lines. In my case, it got me and my family through a rather long security line in a matter of minutes. In other words, it was a game changer with regards to security line wait times.

The reason laptops and liquids can stay in your carry-on is that the fancy upgraded scanners can more accurately detect weapons, explosives, and other prohibited items than their predecessors. And thus far, TSA has deployed 234 CT scanners with plans to double that number by November 2023. Shoes still have to come off for non-TSA PreCheck passengers (TSA PreCheck passengers can leave their shoes on), but not having to pull the liquids and laptops out already speeds things up considerably.

“The goal is to keep 3-1-1 liquids inside of the bag during checkpoint screening at as many airports as possible,” a TSA spokesperson told AFAR.

Airports with new scanners that let laptops and liquids stay in your carry-on:

• Albany County (ALB)
• Birmingham International (BHM)
• Nashville International (BNA)
• Burlington International (BTV)
• Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)
• Chattanooga Metropolitan (CHA)
• Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International (CVG)
• Des Moines International (DSM)
• El Paso International (ELP)
• Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International (FLL)
• Greenville–Spartanburg (GSP)
• Hilton Head Island Airport (HXD)
• Washington–Dulles International (IAD)
• Wilmington International (ILM)
• Memphis International (MEM)
• Manchester Boston Regional (MHT)
• Raleigh–Durham International (RDU)
• Stockton Regional (SCK)
• Syracuse–Hancock International (SYR)
• Tallahassee International (TLH)
• Destin–Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS)

Airports where new scanners will be installed in January 2023:

• Amarillo International Airport (AMA)
• Austin–Bergstrom International (AUS)
• Bradley International (BDL)
• Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW)
• Indianapolis International Airport (IND)
• Oakland International Airport (OAK)
• Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport (PVD)

Other improvements to the TSA security screening experience

No need to have TSA PreCheck envy anymore—the service recently reduced its price.

The cost of TSA PreCheck has dropped

While we wait for futuristic, time-saving technologies to hit more airports, a few other measures can help travelers cut down on security wait times. One is the eternally useful security expediting program TSA PreCheck , which allows passengers to keep liquids and laptops in their carry-on bags and keep their shoes on, saving precious minutes in security lines that are also often considerably shorter than their non–TSA PreCheck counterparts. Last month, TSA reduced the enrollment fee for a five-year TSA PreCheck membership from $85 to $78 and had previously reduced the cost of renewal to $70. There are no more excuses to not sign up for this priceless trusted traveler program.

Airports offer fast-pass security lanes you can book in advance—for free

Another newer development in the world of airport security lines is a virtual queuing option that allows travelers to reserve a security line time slot in advance and jump to the front of the security line. The service is operated by a company named Whyline, which was acquired by Clear earlier this year. Even though Clear charges for membership in its security expediting services, the Whyline fast-pass system is free.

The fast-pass service is currently available at the following U.S. airports:

• New Jersey’s Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
• John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York (JFK)

Given all these developments, at the very least 2023 promises to be a year when we spend less of our lives waiting in airport security lines. That’s an upgrade we’ll gladly take.

Eng. / Fr. / Ru.

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