Yes, children can use touchless screening at airport security

TSA touchless screening is available to passengers of all ages, including children. The process uses millimeter wave technology — a full-body scanner that detects objects without physical contact — instead of the traditional metal detector walk-through or pat-down. Your child will stand still for a few seconds while the machine scans them, then move forward when instructed. No one touches them, and no metal detector wand is used.

Touchless screening is faster than a pat-down and can be less stressful for children who are anxious about being touched by strangers. However, the choice between touchless and traditional screening depends on what the TSA officer offers at your checkpoint and whether your child can follow the brief instructions to stand still.

Key Takeaways

  • Children of any age can go through touchless screening if it is available at your airport checkpoint.
  • Touchless screening uses a body scanner and takes about 10 seconds with no physical contact.
  • Not all TSA checkpoints have touchless equipment, so availability varies by airport and time of day.
  • If your child cannot stand still for a few seconds, the TSA officer may direct you to traditional screening instead.
  • You can ask the TSA officer at your checkpoint whether touchless screening is available before you reach the scanner.

How touchless screening works for children

When your child reaches the scanner, a TSA officer will give straightforward instructions: stand in the marked footprints, keep your arms at your sides or raised depending on the machine model, and hold still for a few seconds. The scanner sends radio waves across the body to detect objects. Once the scan is complete, the officer tells your child to step forward and rejoin you.

The entire process takes about 10 seconds. Your child does not need to remove shoes, light jackets, or most accessories. If the scan shows something that needs a closer look, the officer may ask your child to step aside for a brief visual inspection or a light pat-down of that specific area — but this is rare and happens only if the scanner detects something unusual.

Availability at different airports

Touchless screening equipment is installed at major U.S. airports, but not every checkpoint has it. Large hubs like Atlanta, Dallas, Los Angeles, and New York have touchless scanners at most or all of their security lanes. Smaller regional airports may have one or two lanes with the equipment, or none at all.

Even at airports with touchless scanners, availability can change depending on the time of day, staffing, or equipment maintenance. During very busy travel times, the TSA may route passengers through whichever screening method is fastest, which might not be touchless. The best approach is to ask a TSA officer when you arrive at security whether touchless screening is available that day.

When traditional screening may be used instead

If your child cannot stand still for the few seconds required, or if they are too young to follow instructions reliably, the TSA officer may direct you to traditional screening instead. This is not a problem — it straightforward means your child will walk through a metal detector or, if that triggers an alarm, receive a pat-down from an officer of the same gender.

You can also request traditional screening if your child is uncomfortable with the scanner for any reason. The TSA does not require anyone to use touchless equipment; it is offered as an option. Let the officer know your preference, and they will direct you accordingly.

Preparing your child for touchless screening

Before you reach security, explain to your child that they will stand in a special machine for a few seconds while it takes a picture to make sure nothing unsafe is in their bag or pockets. Use straightforward language: "You stand very still, like a statue, and then you walk forward." Most children find this easier to understand than a pat-down.

If your child has sensory sensitivities or anxiety about enclosed spaces, note that the scanner is not a closed booth — it is an open walkway with walls on the sides. Your child can see you the whole time. If you think your child will be very anxious, you can request traditional screening instead, or ask the TSA officer if you can stand nearby and make eye contact while your child goes through the scanner.

What to expect if something is detected

If the scanner detects an object that needs clarification, a TSA officer will ask your child to step to the side. This happens occasionally and is routine — it might be a toy in a pocket, a metal snap on clothing, or something in a backpack that needs a second look. The officer will either visually inspect the item or ask your child to remove it briefly.

This process is quick and does not delay your travel significantly. The officer will explain what they are checking and why. If you are concerned about how your child will react to this, you can stay close and reassure them that it is normal and safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to take my child through touchless screening?

No. You can request traditional screening at any time. Let the TSA officer know your preference when you arrive at the checkpoint, and they will direct you to the appropriate lane.

Can I go through the scanner with my child?

No, each person goes through separately. However, you can stand nearby where your child can see you. If your child is very young or anxious, ask the officer if you can position yourself so your child can make eye contact while they go through the scanner.

What if my child has a medical device or implant?

Tell the TSA officer before screening begins. They may direct your child to traditional screening or a pat-down instead, depending on the device. Bring any documentation you have about the device.

Will the scanner hurt my child?

No. Touchless scanners use millimeter wave technology, which is the same type of radio wave used in some medical and communication devices. It does not cause pain or injury.

What if my child refuses to go through the scanner?

The TSA will not force your child through. If your child refuses, you can request traditional screening instead. If your child refuses all screening methods, you will not be able to pass through security and board your flight.