What Can I bring Through the TSA Checkpoint?
You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes in your carry-on bag and through the checkpoint. These are limited to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. Placing these items in the small bag and separating from your carry-on baggage facilitates the screening process. Pack items that are in containers larger than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters in checked baggage.
Any liquid, aerosol, gel, cream or paste that alarms during screening will require additional screening.
For full details on what can and can't be brought through the checkpoint visit the TSA "What Can I Bring?" webpage.
Travelers can contact TSA 72 hours prior to traveling with questions about screening policies, procedures and what to expect at the security checkpoint. You may call (855) 787-2227 or email TSA Cares.
Traveling During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Travelers are reminded to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) travel guidance as well as local and state advisories regarding COVID-19.
Effective April 18th 2022, wearing a face mask is no longer mandatory for airline travelers, however CDC continures to recommend their use on public transportation including airline flights. If you are wearing a mask, you will be asked to adjust your mask for ID verification or if it alarms the security screening equipment.
Travelers are also encouraged to:
- Maintain a social distance of six feet wherever possible while at the checkpoint. Remove belts and all personal items from your pockets such as wallets, keys or phones before you enter the checkpoint queue and place them in your carry-on bag. (Does not apply to TSA PreCheck® members).
- Remove food items from carry-on bags and place in bin for screening. (Does not apply to TSA PreCheck® members).
- Practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly, including directly before and after completing the security screening process. If it is not possible to wash your hands, please use hand sanitizer.
- Arrive at the airport early to allow adequate time for checking bags, completing security screening and getting to the departure gate. COVID-19 has affected staffing and operations across the airport environment, potentially adding time to your pre-flight experience.
Employees or travelers who believe they may have been in contact with a person who has COVID-19 should consult with their healthcare provider. Employees or travelers who have tested positive for COVID-19 should seek medical attention and follow the guidance of their healthcare provider and local health department.
Security Checkpoint Changes
TSA has implemented procedures to increase social distancing and reduce direct contact between our employees and the traveling public whenever possible – without compromising security. Adjustments include increasing distance between passengers as they enter the security checkpoint queue and throughout the screening process, placing visual reminders of appropriate spacing on checkpoint floors, and opening more checkpoint lanes where possible to reduce time spent in line.
TSA is implementing a phased installation of acrylic barriers at various points throughout the checkpoint that require interaction between passengers and TSA officers. Travelers should keep possession of their boarding pass, place it on the document scanner and show the boarding pass to the TSA officer for visual inspection while at the travel document checking station.
- Personal Protective Equipment
TSA officers are required to wear face masks and gloves if local Covid-19 levels are HIGH. They may also choose to wear eye protection or clear plastic face shields. In addition, TSA officers change their gloves following each pat-down and upon passenger request.
- Cleaning and Disinfecting
TSA has increased the frequency and intensity of cleaning and disinfecting of frequently touched surfaces throughout the checkpoint including security screening equipment and bins. TSA officers are also required to change Explosives Trace Detection swabs after each use.
- Medical Exemption for Hand Sanitizer
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. Since these containers exceed the standard allowance typically permitted through a checkpoint, they will need to be screened separately. This will add some time to your checkpoint screening experience. Please keep in mind that all other liquids, gels and aerosols brought to a checkpoint continue to be limited to 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters carried in a one quart-size bag. TSA’s special procedures for traveling with medication.
New technology continues to be a major priority for TSA. Here are just a few examples of technologies that are changing the way we do business: 1) Computed Tomography (CT) produces high-quality, 3-D images for a more thorough visual analysis of a bag’s contents. 2) Enhanced Advanced Imaging Technology (eAIT) safely screens passengers without physical contact for threats such as weapons and explosives, which may be hidden under a passenger’s clothing. 3) Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) machines automatically verify identification documents presented by passengers during the security screening process.
What do I need to Know about "REAL ID"?
The 2023 Real ID implementation deadline has been postposed again until 2025.
Currently, a valid government issued photo identification, such as a driver's license, state identification card, or passport is required upon check-in for any passenger eighteen or older. On May 7, 2025, all identification will need to be real ID compliant or passengers will not be able to board any domestic airline flight.
To learn more about REAL ID, visit these websites:
www.NCREALID.gov
www.dhs.gov/real-id