Secure Skies

Every day, 2.7 million passengers depend on the Transportation Security Administration to keep our skies, travelers, baggage secure.

Our airport security personnel require the latest technology to face 21st century threats. The responsible use of automated identity verification technology protects passengers’ privacy, enhances national security and improves the travel experience.

What if I don’t want to participate in automated identity verification methods like facial recognition?

Participation in TSA facial comparison technology is completely optional. If you do not wish to participate, advise the TSA officer that you do not wish to participate before you present your identification. You will not lose your place in line if you choose not to participate.

Click here to learn more about TSA's Facial Comparison Technology

Are digital images saved following the use of automated identify verification methods?

Your digital image is deleted after your identity is verified. Images are not used for surveillance and not shared with other entities.

What Can I Carry On, What Needs To Be Checked and What Can't Fly?

Before you travel, you may review TSA’s list of common items to confirm whether an item you are bringing on a flight is permitted. TSA lists dozens of items on its website with directions on whether passengers can place an item in their carry-on bag, their checked bag or if the item is prohibited from the plane.

If you do not find your item listed, you may contact the AskTSA team seven days a week with live assistance available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (ET).

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The TSA also provides a comprehensive, searchable list that identifies whether an item is allowed in a carry-on, allowed in checked baggage or not allowed at all.

What Can I Bring? Planning ahead to Pack properly

What form of idenitification is necessary to pass through a TSA checkpoint?

The TSA provides a complete list of types of identification that are required to pass through the security checkpoint. U.S. domestic passengers with state-issued driver’s license must have a REAL ID-compliant identification.

Click here to learn how you can be REAL ID Ready.

Secure Travel Through...

INCREASED PROTECTION

FASTER SECURITY SCREENING

GOVERNMENT-LEADING PRIVACY PROTECTION

INCREASED PROTECTION

Since September 2018, U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s biometric system has identified over 2,200 impostors who might have been missed through a manual check, preventing their entry into the United States.

FASTER SECURITY SCREENING

Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) offer travelers a faster security screening experience. TSA PreCheck Touchless ID can more than double the throughput of travelers at the checkpoint by utilizing automated screening that far exceeds the accuracy of manual ID checks. Also, CBP’s Global Entry allows for expedited clearance for preapproved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the U.S.

You may use the app to apply and manage TTP membership, receive notifications of application status and get notified when new appointment times open.

Click here to learn more about TSA's Trusted Traveler Programs

GOVERNMENT-LEADING PRIVACY PROTECTION

The technology in use in airports today requires the deletion of photos and allows passengers to opt-out for manual screening.

Preparing for Increased Travel

Undue restrictions on the responsible use of automated screening technology risks are hampering the Department of Homeland Security’s recent success in modernizing the airport screening process. The TSA and CBP face increasing demands on its screening process as the country prepares to welcome the world for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, America’s 250th Birthday and the 2028 Summer Olympics.

Download These Useful Traveler Apps

To support passengers, DHS offers an array of smartphone apps that inform passengers about useful travel information, expedite the customs arrival processes or even submit an application to become a Trusted Traveler.

Click on the links below for more information on where you can download these apps — available on both the Google Play App Store and Apple App Store.