TSA Rolled Out 6 Major Changes This Year

We’re now past the halfway point of the year, and there have already been a ton of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) changes.

It’s been a big year for air travel and airport security protocols. From new security lines to the removal of decades-long rules, a lot has changed with the TSA security experience, and we’re giving you all the details!

Notably, six major changes have already affected airport security, and more could be on the horizon.

Shoes-off Policy Change

This past July, TSA made the announcement that you do not need to remove your shoes to go through TSA security anymore.

The original shoe removal policy began in 2006, and you could ONLY keep your shoes on if you were a TSA PreCheck Member. The new rule is still rolling out at airports domestically,  and you may still need to remove your shoes if you trigger the security scanners. Generally, however, you will be able to keep them on.

Real ID Requirement

This year, the Department of Homeland Security made it a requirement to present a Real ID during the screening process.

A Real ID can be acquired at your local Department of Motor Vehicles/Department of Driver Services and is marked by a special symbol in the upper corner of your license.

Those without a Real ID will still be able to fly, but may be brought to a separate line and asked some more questions to confirm their identity. Pssports and tribal identifications are also acceptable forms of identification.

Stricter Lithium-Ion Battery Rules

Airlines have had strict regulations on lithium-ion batteries being packed in your checked luggage, but now the federal government is enforcing new restrictions.

The TSA issued a ban on packing portable chargers with lithium-ion batteries in checked luggage, due to being fire hazards. The workaround — obviously — is finding chargers WITHOUT lithium-ion batteries, but until then, you’ll have to pack your chargers with lithium-ion batteries in your carry-on.

Automated Screening Lanes

New Credential Authentication Technology (CAT)-2 Units are currently being installed in domestic airports, which makes for a faster security experience.

This new automated process allows for less unpacking of electronics and liquids, in addition to an automated bin system. The hope is that there will be a decrease in pat-downs while still allowing for the decision to opt for traditional screening.

Family Lanes

In July, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said that “TSA will open security lanes dedicated to families and military service members.”

Called Families on the Fly, this line is a dedicated security line for families with small children. Families can also receive a $15 discount for TSA Pre-Check enrollment.

Digital Documents Allowed at Some Airports

The TSA now accepts digital documentation, such as mobile driver’s licenses, at some airports.

It’s worth noting that this initiative isn’t valid at every airport, and not all states offer mobile driver’s licenses. It’s important to check with your airport and state before travel. If you do qualify, you can store your license information in your phone’s digital wallet, which will display only the necessary information and not personal information.

To do this, download your state’s official DMV app, scan or enter your physical driver’s license, and complete the identity verification steps.

We’ve already noticed a ton of these changes in our travels, and the TSA indicates even more changes could be on the horizon. We’ll let you know as soon as they’re announced.

In the meantime, let us know how you feel about these TSA changes and continue to follow us here at AllEars for more travel updates!

Heads Up! You’re Probably Making a Major TSA Mistake

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How are you feeling about these TSA changes? Let us know in the comments below!

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