TSA No Longer Requires Shoe Removal at Airport Checkpoints

July 8, 2025 • 2 minute read.

At an airport security checkpoint, a man bends down to remove his brown leather shoe while other travelers and a TSA officer wait nearby, framed by full-body scanners and queue barriers.
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What’s Changing at TSA Checkpoints?

For the first time in nearly 20 years, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is rolling back the long-standing requirement that all passengers remove their shoes at airport security screenings—but for now this change will only apply at certain U.S airports. This effort aims to speed up lines and reduce hassle without compromising safety.

  • Passengers can keep shoes on in general screening lanes
  • Only those who trigger an alarm will be asked to remove footwear
  • Applies to both slip-on and lace-up styles

Discover how you can breeze through security with these tips today!

Why the Shoe Removal Rule Started

The shoe-removal mandate was introduced in 2006 in response to the 2001 Richard Reid “shoe bomber” incident, when explosives were hidden in a passenger’s footwear. While advanced imaging and detection tech have since improved, the rule remained in place—until now.

Where the New Policy Applies

The phase-out is already active at several major U.S. airports, including:

  • Baltimore/Washington International (BWI)
  • Fort Lauderdale International (FLL)
  • Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International (CVG)
  • Portland International (PDX)
  • Philadelphia International (PHL)
  • Piedmont Triad International (GSO)
  • Los Angeles International (LAX) & LaGuardia (LGA)

Exemptions and Security Procedures

  • TSA PreCheck members have long kept shoes on.
  • Children under 12 and adults over 75 remain exempt if alarms aren’t triggered.
  • Full-body scanners and magnetometers still screen for hidden threats.

How Travelers Can Prepare

  1. Choose easy-on, easy-off shoes: Slip-ons or low-profile sneakers work best.
  2. Wear clean socks: In case additional screening is needed, you’ll stay comfortable.
  3. Stay informed: Check your airport’s TSA page for the latest protocol.

Ready to cut down your wait time? Try these simple packing hacks now!

Final Thoughts and Tips

This policy shift reflects the TSA’s ongoing efforts to balance security with passenger experience. By keeping your shoes on, you’ll save precious minutes and start your trip with less stress.

Safe travels—and don’t forget to slip into your favorite travel shoes before you hit the checkpoint!

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