Guide to TSA Restrictions: From Carry-On Items to Security Checkpoints

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific rules and restrictions air passengers must follow. These TSA rules impact various stages of airport security, from what you can pack in your carry-on to what to expect during the security screening process.

While you must adhere to these rules to enjoy air travel, you also have certain rights. There are specific things the TSA can and can't do throughout the security screening process.

Below, you will find guidelines on:

• Travel tips for transporting hazardous items
• Compliance with checked baggage and carry-on items
• What happens if you're caught with a prohibited item
• Traveling with pets and service animals
• Your rights during different stages of the airline security screening process
• Other information

Security Screening for Checked Baggage

With checked luggage, law enforcement officers and TSA agents focus primarily on identifying explosives. Agents need to ensure the contents of a checked bag won't explode or combust in the fuselage (or belly) of the plane.

Security officers use automated in-line baggage screening systems (IBSS) to screen checked bags for explosives and dangerous items. Most checked bags don't require a physical inspection. But, if an officer manually inspects your bag, they must leave a notice of inspection inside your luggage.

If you lock your checked bag, make sure to use a TSA-approved lock (like a Safe Skies Lock). Otherwise, agents can cut off your lock if a physical search is necessary.

Airline Carry-On Baggage Rules

Most airlines allow passengers to bring one piece of carry-on luggage and one personal item onboard.

Remember the 3-1-1 Liquids Rule. This also applies to gels, lotions, and aerosols. This regulation means each passenger can bring one clear quart-sized bag onboard. This bag must hold all liquid items, and each container cannot exceed 3.4 ounces.

This includes most toiletries, including:

• Toothpaste and mouthwash
• Hairspray
• Cream-based makeup products
• Hand sanitizer
• Perfume and aftershave
• Other toiletries

Determining what items fall under this rule can be difficult. For example, spreadable food items like peanut butter must meet 3-1-1 criteria. Frozen food items, like meat, are allowed as long they're as frozen solid (including the freezer pack).

You can pack solid toiletries (like deodorant) in your carry-on at any amount.

The size restrictions above exclude baby food, baby formula, and breast milk.

Most sharp objects are banned from carry-on bags. This includes box cutters, cigar cutters, and pocket knives. But some sharp personal hygiene items (like tweezers and razors) are allowable.

Going Through TSA Security Checkpoints

First, give your government-issued ID and boarding pass to a TSA officer for verification. Some airports only require your ID at the TSA checkpoint. Regardless, you must still present your boarding pass before boarding your aircraft.

You may need a new boarding pass if the name on the identification document doesn't exactly match the name on the boarding pass. Visit your airline's check-in counter if you need to do this.

Some airports now use facial recognition and other biometric technology when screening identification documents. This technology is optional. You have the right to opt-out without losing your place in the security line. Inform the officer if you wish to not participate in this screening method.

Next, remove any electronic devices larger than your cell phone from your carry-on bag. Put them in a separate bin. This typically includes tablets, e-readers, and laptops.

Unless you are a TSA PreCheck member, you must remove your shoes and 3-1-1 plastic bag of liquids before moving through the metal detector.

Religious and Cultural Needs During Screening

Loose-fitting clothing or head coverings may require additional screening by an officer. If you need to remove your head covering, you can request to do so in a private screening area. The TSA also outlines procedures for packing religious items on its website.

You have the right to decline this technology and opt for a pat-down instead. You may also need to undergo a pat-down if the x-ray machine or AIT indicates additional screening is necessary.

Transgender and Non-Binary Travelers

TSA officers no longer use gender considerations when validating passenger identity. As of June 2023, the TSA uses a gender-neutral algorithm for its Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT). This technology is used at security checks to detect threats or prohibited items concealed on passengers' bodies. This gender-neutral advancement cut the false alarm rate in half.

You have the right to decline this technology and opt for a pat-down instead. You may also be required to undergo a pat-down if the x-ray machine or AIT indicates additional screening is needed.

In the event of a pat-down, you have certain rights:

• You can disclose your gender identity and request an officer of that gender to perform the pay-down.
• You can request to receive the pat-down in private instead of at the checkpoint area.
• A traveling companion can join you during a private screening or pat-down.

You don't have to remove any clothing that could reveal sensitive body parts. But the officer doing the screening can ask you to adjust loose-fitting clothing.

Transporting Special Items During Air Travel

Some items require extra care during air travel. Reference the What Can I Bring? section of the TSA website for security guidelines on transporting certain items, including:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Batteries and lithium batteries
• Camping gear
• Compressed gas cylinders
• Currency, coins, precious metals, and jewelry
• Firearms and ammunition
• Hunting and fishing equipment
• Knitting needles and needlepoint
• Lighters and matches
• Musical instruments
• Paintball equipment
• Parachutes
• Scuba equipment
• Sporting equipment

Air Travel With Pets and Service Animals

Rules for traveling with a pet vary by airline. Check with your air carrier to find procedures for bringing a pet onboard. The law requires airlines to allow service animals on flights if they meet certain requirements.

The TSA will screen all pets and service animals at security checkpoints regardless of the airline you're using. Safely remove your pet from their crate or carrier and place their crate or carrier on the conveyor belt for x-ray screening. You must also walk or carry your pet through the metal detector. Agents may also perform a physical inspection of your animal.

You have additional rights during the security process if traveling with a service animal. For example, you can choose for yourself or your animal to get a pat-down instead of going through the metal detector. In addition, security agents must allow you to stay with your service animal.

Keep in mind that emotional support animals don't receive the same legal protections as service animals.

Text AskTSA With Questions

AskTSA is a free tool to ask a question about a particular item you would like to bring on your trip. AskTSA provides automated responses 24/7. Live assistance is available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (ET).

AskTSA also answers questions on:

• Identification
• Medication and medical conditions during screening
• Damages and claims
• And more

Reach AskTSA by texting “Travel" to 275-872.

What Happens if I'm Caught With a Prohibited Item?

Attempting to travel with a prohibited item can result in steep TSA penalties and even criminal charges. Depending on the item and the occurrence, you can also be disqualified from TSA PreCheck eligibility.

You also won't get your item back. Prohibited items left at a security checkpoint are not returned to their owners.

If a TSA agent discovers a prohibited item on you or in your baggage, they can issue a Notice of Violation. This is a civil penalty with a fine, not a criminal charge. But some prohibited items also come with a criminal referral, including:

• Explosives like hand grenades, dynamite, and realistic replicas of explosives
• Loaded and unloaded firearms
• Firearm mufflers, silencers, and receivers

If caught with one of the prohibited items above, consider contacting a criminal defense attorney. Besides paying the civil penalty, you'll also have to address the criminal charge in court.

Get Legal Help With an Airport Security Issue

Legal help is available if you have questions or concerns about your rights during airline security screening. If you believe a TSA officer or airline staff has violated your rights, you may want to talk to an attorney.

An experienced attorney can provide guidance and next steps for your situation. Contact a consumer protection attorney in your area to learn how they can help safeguard your rights.