TSA Security Screening: What to Know in 2025

If you’re planning to fly in or out of the United States in 2025, it’s important to understand the current TSA security screening procedures. While many travelers have become familiar with the basics over the years, changes and updates can impact what you bring and how you prepare. Here’s a helpful overview to make your airport experience smoother.

TSA’s Mission

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) exists to ensure the safety of all travelers by preventing prohibited items and other threats from entering secure areas of the airport. Screening is a layered process that includes physical screening, X-rays, and behavioral observation techniques.

What You Can Bring

The TSA continues to enforce the 3-1-1 rule for liquids:

• Each passenger may carry liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in travel-sized containers of no more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).
• All containers must fit in a single, quart-sized, resealable plastic bag.

However, some exceptions apply. You may bring larger amounts of medically necessary liquids, baby formula, and breast milk in reasonable quantities. These must be declared and are subject to additional screening.

That said, many travelers have noticed inconsistent enforcement of the quart-sized bag requirement. This is partly due to new CT scanners being deployed at major airports, which allow TSA officers to view detailed 3D images of bags and assess potential threats more effectively. In airports with this advanced equipment, passengers are often allowed to leave liquids in their carry-on bags, and the use of clear bags may not be strictly enforced. Still, not all airports use this technology, and TSA officially recommends continuing to use the quart-sized bag to avoid delays.

To avoid surprises, check the TSA’s full “What Can I Bring?” list online. It provides detailed guidance on everything from electronics to peanut butter.

Sample Real ID Driver’s License

Valid Identification Requirements

All passengers 18 and older must present an acceptable form of identification at the checkpoint. Approved IDs include:

• U.S. passports and passport cards
• State-issued Enhanced Driver’s Licenses
• DHS Trusted Traveler cards (e.g., Global Entry, NEXUS)
• Permanent resident cards and Employment Authorization Cards
• Foreign passports

Make sure your ID is valid and matches the name on your boarding pass. A REAL ID-compliant license is required for domestic travel.

TSA PreCheck: A Time-Saving Option

TSA PreCheck is a trusted traveler program that offers a more efficient screening process. With PreCheck, travelers can:

• Keep shoes, belts, and light jackets on
• Leave laptops and compliant liquids in carry-on bags

To participate, you must apply online, schedule an in-person appointment, and receive approval.

Special Considerations for Seniors

Passengers aged 75 and older are eligible for some expedited screening benefits. Typically, they may leave on shoes and light jackets, although additional screening may still be necessary.

Final Tips for Travelers

• Arrive at the airport at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights.
• Double-check your carry-on contents to avoid delays.
• Label your medications and bring documentation if needed.

For more details, including up-to-date lists of allowed and prohibited items, visit the official TSA website: www.tsa.gov.

Safe travels!

If you enjoyed this article, sign up for our travel newsletter to keep abreast of our best travel tips, on-location reviews, exclusive travel offers, group travel events, and much more.

This article was written with the aid of Perplexity AI, Grok, or ChatGPT. Roaming Boomers Travel Services is an independent affiliate of Cadence and a Virtuoso® member. CST#201120-40

The post TSA Security Screening: What to Know in 2025 appeared first on The Roaming Boomers