TSA Travel Restrictions, Regulations and Requirements

Taking a Photo of TSA on Phone

Updated 6/18/2020:

Traveling in the time of COVID19

TSA has taken many steps to keep travelers safe during the COVID19 pandemic. To learn more about what TSA is doing to keep airline passengers and crew safe visit https://www.tsa.gov/coronavirus

You may wear your medical facemask during security screening but please remove your mask when you arrive at the TSA checkpoint so the TSA officer can verify your identity https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/medical-masks.

Expired Driver's License and REAL ID Extension

If your driver's license  or state-issued ID expired on or after March 1, 2020, and you are not able to renew your license at your states DMV, you may still use your driver's license at security checkpoints up to a year after your identification has expired. The deadline to obtain a real ID has been extended by one year and the new deadline for REAL ID is October 1, 2021.

Important travel requirements

When traveling domestically within the United States, it is important to check travel requirements on your destination State Department's website >> https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html Some states are requiring you to be tested for COVID19 before you arrive and / or quarantine for 14 days once you arrive at your destination.

The latest travel restrictions and advisories can be find on the Department of Homeland Security website >> https://www.dhs.gov/coronavirus/protecting-air-travelers-and-american-public

3-1-1 for carry-ons = 3.4 ounce bottle or less; 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin. One-quart bag per person limits the total liquid volume each traveler can bring. 3.4 oz. container size is a security measure.

Consolidate bottles into one bag and X-ray separately to speed screening.

Be prepared. Each time TSA searches a carry-on it slows down the line. Practicing 3-1-1 will ensure a faster and easier checkpoint experience.

3-1-1 is for short trips. If in doubt, put your liquids in checked luggage.

Declare larger liquids. Medications, baby formula and food, breast milk, and juice are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding three ounces and are not required to be in the zip-top bag. Declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint.

Come early and be patient. Heavy travel volumes and the enhanced security process may mean longer lines at security checkpoints.

TSA working with our partners. TSA works with airlines and airports to anticipate peak traffic and be ready for the traveling public.

 

Acceptable Identification at check out include:

  • U.S. passport
  • U.S. passport card
  • DHS "Trusted Traveler" cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
  • U.S. Military ID (active duty or retired military and their dependents, and DOD civilians)
  • Permanent Resident Card
  • Border Crossing Card
  • DHS-designated enhanced driver's license
  • Drivers Licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) NOTE: You will need a REAL ID driver license or ID card beginning October 1, 2020 learn more at dhs.gov/real-id
  • A Native American Tribal Photo ID
  • An airline or airport-issued ID (if issued under a TSA-approved security plan)
  • A foreign government-issued passport
  • Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) card
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

 

TSA: Prohibited Sharp Items

Box Cutters: Carry-on: No Checked: Yes

Ice Axes/Ice Picks: Carry-on: No Checked: Yes

Knives – except for plastic or round bladed butter knives:  Carry-on: No Checked: Yes

Meat Cleavers: Carry-on: No Checked: Yes

Razor-Type Blades – such as box cutters, utility knives, and safety razor blades (disposable razors and their cartridges are permitted):  Carry-on: No Checked: Yes

Sabers: Carry-on: No Checked: Yes

Scissors – metal with pointed tips and blades shorter than four inches:  Carry-on: Yes Checked: Yes

Swords – cutting or thrusting weapons, including fencing foils:  Carry-on: No Checked: Yes

NOTE: Any sharp objects in checked baggage should be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors.

For the full list of prohibited items go to the TSA Travel Website.


MyTSA Mobile Application Now Available

MyTSA has multiple functions, including the following tools:

  • Airport Status: Users can see what airports are experiencing general delays (not flight specific) or search for conditions at a specific airport. This information is provided by the FAA.

  • ‘Can I Bring?’: Users can type in an item they plan to bring on a trip to find out if it is permitted or prohibited, and whether they can pack it in carry-on or checked bags.

  • Guide: Users can get travel tips on an array of some of the most popular topics of air travel, including traveling with children, 3-1-1 rules for liquids, gels and aerosols, special medical needs, packing tips, tips for how to dress for airport security, tips for military members, and traveling with food and gifts.

  • Security wait times: MyTSA gives passengers the ability to share their wait time and see what wait times other passengers have posted for U.S. airports.

  • Wait Times: Passengers can also post the approximate amount of time it took them to get through security for other travelers to view.

To get MyTSA on your mobile device, type in www.tsa.gov/mobile.

You can find the MyTSA iPhone app on iTunes.

For any additional, up-to-date information with TSA, please visit their website: www.tsa.gov


 Travel tips, tricks, packing checklists and great travel gear

 

Adapter Finder

Adapter Plug chart with voltage information for each country which will help you to determine whether or not you need a converter or a transformer to change the voltage for your American appliance. 

Travel Packing Checklist

Pack everything you need with our comprehensive travel packing checklist. For your convenience many of the items are linked to travel accessories you can purchase right here. This handy little gem will ensure you don't leave home thinking you forgot to pack something. It also includes pre-departure tasks as well as a home checklist!

Comfort Travel Accessories

As times have changed from the days when the act of traveling was considered glamorous travelers have been forced to deal with less leg room, smaller seats, over-crowded flights and security check hassles. We've compiled tips and travel accessories to make the going efficient, comfortable, and more enjoyable.

Travel Information, Resources & Quick Links You Need to Check

Handy links for travel information, TSA guidelines, passport renewals, Embassy locations and more.

Packing Tips for Perfectly Packed Luggage

No need for stuffing, pushing or jamming your luggage. Follow our guide on what to bring and how to make it fit!

Our Picks for Top 10 Travel Accessories

We've gathered our picks of the top ten travel accessories you shouldn't leave home without.

Airline Regulations for your Carry-on Baggage and Checked Luggage

Things can get a bit confusing when carry-on restrictions vary from airline to airline as well as from airplane to airplane. Check out our general guidelines on what you can take on and what fees you might encounter.

TSA Regulations for your Carry-On Luggage and Bags

Travel information and restrictions on what TSA will and won't allow. Stay up-to-date with the MyTSA Mobile app feauturing handy tools and functions.