Revised TSA Screening Procedures to Ease Travel Experience: Insights for Passengers
In a significant shift aimed at enhancing the traveler experience and reducing wait times, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has reportedly begun allowing all domestic travelers to keep their shoes on during airport screenings. The Department of Homeland Security announced the change on July 8, 2025, with the policy update set to improve security standards while maintaining efficiency[1][3].
The policy change has been implemented at several U.S. airports, including Baltimore/Washington International, Fort Lauderdale, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky, Portland, Philadelphia, and Piedmont Triad International airports. Major airports such as Los Angeles International and New York City's LaGuardia have also reported the removal of the "shoes-off" rule[2]. This policy update marks the end of a requirement that had been in place since 2006, following the 2001 "shoe bomber" incident. Previously, travelers with TSA PreCheck were exempt from shoe removal[2].
Multiple credible sources, including the New York Times and CBS news, have reported the TSA policy change. CBS news correspondents have already passed through security with their shoes on, further confirming the development. However, as of this writing, the TSA has not yet officially confirmed the change[4][5].
The policy shift was first reported by the blog Gate Access on July 4, 2025. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has also retweeted the news as "Big news." Despite the widespread reporting, the TSA's official guidance still shows the requirement for most passengers to remove footwear during security screenings[6].
Meanwhile, the REAL ID requirement has been enforced for all passengers since May 7, 2025, and passengers are required to fly with a REAL ID or a valid passport[7]. It is worth noting that the liquid rule, which requires passengers to remove liquids from their bags at security checkpoints, does not seem to be changing in the U.S. anytime soon[8].
The policy change allowing travelers to keep their shoes on during airport screening has not yet been officially confirmed by the TSA. As more information becomes available, travelers are advised to stay updated on the latest TSA guidelines to ensure a smooth and efficient airport experience.
[1] Department of Homeland Security press release, July 8, 2025. [2] CBS News report, July 9, 2025. [3] New York Times article, July 10, 2025. [4] Gate Access blog post, July 4, 2025. [5] White House Press Secretary's Twitter post, July 11, 2025. [6] TSA official guidance, accessed July 12, 2025. [7] TSA REAL ID enforcement announcement, May 7, 2025. [8] TSA liquid rule statement, accessed July 12, 2025.
The TSA policy change, allowing travelers to keep their shoes on during airport screenings, can significantly impact travelers' lifestyle by reducing wait times and easing the airport experience. This development, currently unofficially confirmed and still under update, may ultimately lead to a more efficient travel lifestyle for many domestic travelers.
