What changed in 2025

TSA began full REAL ID enforcement on May 7, 2025, tightening ID requirements at checkpoints. At the same time, more airports rolled out CAT-2 facial comparison at document check and expanded CT scanners for carry-on screening. Digital IDs (mobile driver’s licenses) are accepted at select lanes, but you still need to carry a physical ID. See official hubs: REAL ID, Acceptable IDs, Digital ID, CAT-2 factsheet, CT scanners. TSA+4TSA+4TSA+4

ID rules you must know

From May 7, 2025, a non-REAL ID state license/ID is no longer accepted at TSA checkpoints; bring a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative such as a passport, passport card, Trusted Traveler card, or DoD/military ID. TSA’s ID page lists all options and notes that expired IDs (up to two years) may be accepted case-by-case, while temporary paper licenses are not accepted. If you forget your ID, TSA may still verify your identity via an alternate process, but delays are likely. TSA+4TSA+4TSA+4

Digital IDs and participating states

When available, you can present a mobile driver’s license (mDL) in Apple/Google/Samsung Wallet or a state app at 250+ checkpoints. Always carry a physical ID as backup, and verify whether your state is on TSA’s participating list and whether your departure airport supports Digital ID. Start here: Digital ID overview and the Participating states list; see the mDL waivers page for states approved for federal use. TSA+2TSA+2

What happens at document check (CAT-2)

CAT-2 compares your live photo to the image on your ID to help officers validate identity. Per TSA, photos are not saved after a successful match (outside limited testing), it’s not used for surveillance, and you may opt out and request manual ID check. Read TSA’s factsheet and biometrics pages for specifics. TSA+1

Screening tech in the lane: CT, AIT, and the 3-1-1 rule

CT (Computed Tomography) scanners create 3-D images of your carry-on. Laptops can remain in your bag at CT-equipped lanes. TSA’s current policy keeps the 3-1-1 liquids rule in force; the long-term goal is to allow liquids to stay in bags as CT expands, but for now pack to 3-1-1 unless signage/officers direct otherwise. Also expect AIT (advanced imaging) body scanners using privacy-protective automated target recognition. Learn more: CT program, 3-1-1 rule, AIT privacy FAQ. TSA+2TSA+2

How to cut your wait time

TSA PreCheck®: TSA reports ~99% of eligible travelers clear in ≤10 minutes. Enrollment is available via multiple providers; add your Known Traveler Number (KTN) to your booking for the PreCheck indicator on your boarding pass. Details and stats: TSA PreCheck and recent TSA updates. TSA
MyTSA app: Check predicted checkpoint busyness by hour, lane hours, and “What Can I Bring?” before you leave. Download: MyTSA. TSA
Reserve-a-slot programs: Some airports offer free timed-entry lanes via airport systems or Reserve by CLEAR. Availability varies—start with CLEAR locations and your airport’s site. clearme.com
Arrival timing: Needs vary by airport and date; use the MyTSA busyness forecast and your airline’s guidance to set arrival time. TSA

Families and teens in PreCheck

Children 12 and under can accompany a PreCheck-eligible adult. Teens 13–17 can also receive expedited screening when they are on the same reservation and the PreCheck indicator appears on the teen’s boarding pass (rules and availability may vary by airline/system). See TSA’s PreCheck family guidance and recent “Families on the Fly” updates. TSA+3TSA+3TSA+3

Medical items, medications, and special assistance

The 3-1-1 rule has medical exceptions: you may bring larger quantities of medically necessary liquids when declared to the officer. Use TSA’s “What Can I Bring?” and medical items pages to prepare. Travelers who need help can request TSA Cares assistance—contact the helpline (855) 787-2227 at least 72 hours before travel, or submit the online form; hours are listed on TSA’s site. TSA+6TSA+6TSA+6

Firearms and prohibited items

Firearms are never allowed in carry-on. They must be unloaded, in a locked hard-sided case, declared to your airline, and transported in checked baggage only. Ammunition rules are strict; check airline policies and TSA guidance. When in doubt, consult “What Can I Bring?”. TSA+2TSA+2

Quick step-by-step at the checkpoint

1. Present ID at document check: REAL ID, passport, or another acceptable ID. If offered CAT-2 facial comparison, you may opt out. TSA+1
2. Bins & belts: At CT lanes, laptops usually stay in bag; 3-1-1 still applies unless signage says otherwise. TSA+1
3. Body scanner (AIT): Follow officer prompts; AIT uses privacy-protective automated target recognition. TSA
4. Special items: Use the MyTSA app and What Can I Bring? search for quick decisions. TSA+1

Frequently asked 2025 questions

Is REAL ID mandatory now? Yes. As of May 7, 2025, non-REAL ID state IDs are not accepted at TSA checkpoints; bring a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative (e.g., passport). TSA
Do temporary paper licenses work? No. TSA does not accept temporary paper driver’s licenses. TSA
Will TSA accept an expired ID? TSA can accept expired IDs up to two years past expiration for identity verification, but expect extra screening. TSA
Can I fly without any ID? Possibly. TSA can attempt to verify identity using other information; if identity cannot be verified, entry is denied. TSA
Where can I see what’s allowed in carry-on? Use What Can I Bring? to check items from baby food to batteries. TSA

Related reading on AviationTitans

Plan the rest of your trip with our In-Flight Experience Reviews and airport planning tips in Airport Spotting Guides. Keep up with rule changes in Regulatory Updates.