Get through Security Faster
Getting through security can seem frustrating at times, but TSA agents work hard to do a thorough job to make sure your travels are safe. There are a few things you can do to speed up the process when it's your turn.
Don't bring prohibited items.
Not sure what is allowed through security? Check out TSA's list of prohibited items.
Still not sure? Snap a picture of an item and send it or a question to @AskTSA on Facebook Messenger or Twitter.
Place your containers of liquid together in a resealable plastic bag to make it easier and faster for TSA to review them.
You are allowed to bring one quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in your carry-on bag and through the TSA security checkpoint. Each item, except for hand sanitizer, is limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, which is about the size of most travel-size products. Up to 12 ounces of hand sanitizer is now allowed.
Please pack containers of liquid, such as shampoo, that are larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) in your checked baggage.
Bring an approved form of identification.
Adult passengers 18 years and older must show valid (i.e. not expired) identification at the TSA security checkpoint. Acceptable forms of identification are:
- U.S. state-issued driver's license or other state-issued photo identity cards
- U.S. passport
- U.S. passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- Permanent-resident card
- Border-crossing card
- State-issued enhanced driver's license
- Federally recognized, tribal-issued photo ID
- HSPD-12 PIV card
- Passport issued by a recognized foreign government
- Canadian provincial driver's license
- Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
- Transportation-worker identification credential
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
REAL ID
Due to circumstances resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and the national emergency declaration, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security extended the REAL ID enforcement deadline by a year.
The new deadline for all travelers to obtain a REAL ID is May of 2025.
Beginning May 3, 2023, every traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, state-issued enhanced driver's license, or another acceptable form of ID to fly on a commercial aircraft in the United States. REAL ID-compliant cards are marked with a star at the top of the card. Contact your state driver's license agency for instruction on how to obtain a REAL ID. More information regarding Real ID can be found at REAL ID | Homeland Security (dhs.gov).