You must remove your shoes at TSA security checkpoints, with limited exceptions

TSA requires almost all passengers to remove their shoes during the standard security screening process. Your shoes go through the X-ray machine while you walk through the metal detector or body scanner in socks or bare feet. The rule applies at every commercial airport checkpoint in the United States.

The shoe-removal requirement came after the 2001 attempted bombing by Richard Reid, who tried to detonate explosives hidden in his shoe. Since then, TSA has screened footwear as a standard part of the security process. This is not a discretionary policy—screeners will ask you to remove your shoes, and refusing delays your screening and may result in additional screening or denial of boarding.

Key Takeaways

  • TSA requires you to remove your shoes at security checkpoints unless you are part of TSA PreCheck or another trusted traveler program.
  • Children under 12 and adults over 75 can keep shoes on during standard screening, though screeners may still ask you to remove them if your shoes trigger an alarm.
  • TSA PreCheck members, military personnel with valid ID, and some other trusted traveler programs allow you to keep shoes on during screening.
  • Wear slip-on shoes to speed up the process, and place them in a bin on the conveyor belt so they go through the X-ray machine.
  • If your shoes are wet, muddy, or you have a medical reason to keep them on, tell the screener before you reach the checkpoint.

Who can keep their shoes on

TSA allows certain groups to keep shoes on during security screening. Children under 12 years old do not have to remove their shoes. Adults 75 and older can also keep shoes on, though a screener may ask you to remove them if your shoes set off an alarm or if they need a closer look.

If you have a medical condition that makes it painful or unsafe to remove your shoes—such as a severe foot injury, prosthetic, or mobility issue—tell the screener before you step up to the checkpoint. Screeners are trained to accommodate medical needs, and you may be able to keep your shoes on or receive alternative screening. Have any relevant documentation with you, such as a doctor's note or medical ID, though screeners often work with your verbal explanation.

TSA PreCheck and trusted traveler programs

TSA PreCheck is a paid program that allows you to keep your shoes on during security screening, along with other benefits like keeping your belt and light jacket on. PreCheck members also go through a faster, dedicated screening lane. The program costs $78 to $85 for five years, depending on your location and whether you renew or explore new.

Other trusted traveler programs offer the same shoe benefit. These include Global Entry (which includes PreCheck), NEXUS, SENTRI, and GOES. Military personnel with a valid military ID also do not have to remove their shoes. If you hold one of these credentials, show your card or membership number when you check in or at the security checkpoint.

How to prepare your shoes for screening

Wear slip-on shoes or shoes with minimal laces to speed up removal and putting them back on. Avoid boots with multiple buckles or laces that take time to unfasten. When you reach the checkpoint, remove your shoes and place them directly in a bin on the conveyor belt—do not hand them to a screener. Your shoes will go through the X-ray machine on the belt while you proceed through the metal detector or body scanner.

After you pass through the scanner, collect your shoes from the end of the conveyor belt and move to a seating area to put them back on. Do not block the conveyor belt or the area in front of the scanner while you are putting your shoes back on. If you are traveling with children, help them remove and replace their shoes, though they are not required to do so.

What happens if your shoes trigger an alarm

If your shoes set off the metal detector or body scanner, a screener will ask you to remove them for a closer inspection. This can happen even if you are in a trusted traveler program or an age group that normally keeps shoes on. Screeners may use a handheld metal detector, swab your shoes for explosive residue, or visually inspect them.

Metal shoe inserts, metal buckles, or metal shanks in the sole can trigger alarms. If you know your shoes have metal components, mention this to the screener before you go through the scanner. The process usually takes only a few extra minutes, and you will be cleared to proceed once the screener confirms there is no threat.

Special situations and exceptions

If your shoes are wet, muddy, or visibly soiled, tell the screener before you reach the checkpoint. Some screeners may allow you to keep them on to avoid contaminating the bins or the conveyor belt, or they may ask you to place them in a separate bin. This is at the screener's discretion, so being upfront about the condition of your shoes helps.

Passengers with mobility aids, prosthetics, or orthotic devices should inform the screener. You may be able to keep certain devices on during screening, or you may receive alternative screening such as a pat-down or a private screening room. TSA screeners are trained to work with passengers who have disabilities or medical needs, and you have the right to request a supervisor if you feel you are being treated unfairly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear socks through security instead of going barefoot?

Yes. You can walk through the metal detector or body scanner in socks, and most passengers do. Make sure your socks are clean and do not have holes. Some travelers prefer to go barefoot, but socks are the standard choice and are perfectly acceptable.

What if I forget to remove my shoes and walk through the scanner?

The metal detector or body scanner will likely alarm, and a screener will stop you and ask you to remove your shoes. You will then be rescreened. This happens occasionally and is not a serious problem—just remove your shoes and go back through the scanner.

Do I have to remove my shoes if I am connecting to a domestic flight?

Yes. You must go through security screening again at your connecting airport, even if you are staying within the United States. Remove your shoes at that checkpoint as well, unless you are in a trusted traveler program or fall into an exception category.

Can I request a private screening room if I am uncomfortable removing my shoes in public?

Yes. You can ask a screener for a private screening room for any reason, including privacy concerns. Screeners will accommodate this request when possible, though it may add time to your screening. Inform a screener or supervisor before you reach the checkpoint if you know you will need this accommodation.

Are there any airports where I do not have to remove my shoes?

No. The shoe-removal requirement applies at all TSA checkpoints at commercial airports in the United States. Some international airports have different security procedures, but U.S. airports all follow the same TSA rule.