Shoes airport security rules have finally changed in the United States. Starting in July 2025, many travelers no longer need to take off their shoes at airport checkpoints. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is rolling out this update at several major airports.
This is a big shift from a rule that’s been in place since 2006. If you fly often, this new rule could save you time and hassle.
Why the Shoes Airport Security Rule Started
The shoes airport security rule began after a 2001 incident. A man named Richard Reid tried to set off explosives hidden in his shoes on a flight. That led the TSA to require all passengers to remove their shoes during screening. The rule was meant to prevent any hidden threats inside footwear.
This policy stayed in place for almost two decades. Many people found it annoying, especially when lines were long. Even kids and seniors had to do it for years, though later exceptions were made.
What’s New in 2025?
The shoes airport security rule is now being lifted at several airports across the U.S. Travelers can keep their shoes on during security checks in most regular lanes, not just in TSA PreCheck.
This change began rolling out the week of July 7, 2025, and will be in place at more airports by July 13, 2025. It’s not just a test. The TSA is officially changing how it handles shoe screening at select checkpoints.
Why the Rule Is Changing Now
TSA officials say the update is possible thanks to better technology. New screening machines can now detect threats through shoes. They can see inside footwear without needing passengers to take them off.
This change is also meant to improve how security lines move. Taking off shoes takes time, especially when people have boots or laced sneakers. By keeping shoes on, travelers move faster and lines get shorter.
TSA also says the new process is just as safe as before. They’ve tested the tech in several locations and trust it can spot any danger.
Where You Can Keep Shoes On
Here are some airports where the shoes airport security rule no longer requires you to take off your shoes:
- Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
- Portland (PDX)
- LaGuardia (LGA)
- Baltimore/Washington (BWI)
- Philadelphia (PHL)
- Piedmont Triad (GSO)
- Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky (CVG)
- Los Angeles (LAX)
More airports are being added weekly. By the end of summer 2025, the TSA hopes to expand this policy to even more locations.
Who Still Needs to Remove Shoes?
While this is a big shift, not everyone gets to keep shoes on. Some travelers still have to remove them. Here are the common reasons:
- You don’t have a REAL ID or valid passport.
- You’re flagged for secondary screening.
- You set off the metal detector.
- You wear orthopedic or medical shoes that scanners can’t see through.
- You fly from airports not yet updated.
Also, if you act nervous or suspicious, TSA agents may still ask you to take off your shoes.
What About TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck travelers already enjoyed this perk. They haven’t needed to remove their shoes for years. This new update brings the same comfort to many regular passengers.
You don’t need to pay for PreCheck to benefit from the new rule if your airport allows it.
Still, signing up for TSA PreCheck might be smart if you fly often. You’ll get faster lines, less waiting, and more consistent service across all airports.
Reactions from Travelers
The shoes airport security change has sparked a lot of talk online. Many people are happy about it. They’re tired of walking barefoot through checkpoints. Others have long wanted faster lines and fewer delays.
Some travelers are worried, though. They think removing shoes made flying safer. They fear this change could lead to trouble. But TSA insists that the tech is strong and reliable.
One traveler posted on social media, “Finally! I hated taking off shoes at 5 a.m. with two kids.” Another said, “If the machines can handle it, I’m all for it.”
What Should You Do Before Flying?
Before your next flight, follow these tips:
- Check your airport. Look on TSA’s site or your airport’s website.
- Bring proper ID. Make sure you have a REAL ID or passport.
- Wear simple shoes. Avoid metal or thick soles that might trigger the scanner.
- Listen to agents. If they ask you to remove your shoes, do it.
The shoes airport security rule is changing, but it’s not gone everywhere yet. Be ready for anything just in case.
How Will This Affect Travel?
This change is small, but it matters. People move faster when they don’t have to stop, bend down, and untie shoes. Less delay means less stress. It also makes flying more friendly for families, seniors, and travelers with disabilities.
This update also shows how TSA is using tech to make travel better. If this goes well, we might see more changes. Maybe laptops and liquids will stay in bags next.
But for now, one annoying part of flying is going away. And that’s good news for millions of people.
Final Thoughts
The shoes airport security rule was part of flying in the U.S. for almost 20 years. It started after a real threat. But in 2025, thanks to better screening tech, that rule is being eased.
At many airports, travelers can now keep their shoes on. It makes lines shorter and the process smoother. Not everyone is included yet, and some people still have to remove their shoes. But the direction is clear: less hassle at the checkpoint.
If you’re flying soon, check your airport’s rules. And next time you’re in line, enjoy not bending down to untie your shoes.
