U.S. Travelers No Longer Required to Remove Shoes at Airport Security Checkpoints

For the first time in nearly two decades, travelers in the U.S. will no longer be required to remove their shoes during airport security screenings. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced the change on Tuesday, declaring the decision immediately effective nationwide following a successful pilot program.

“This will be a much more streamlined process,” said Noem. “I think most Americans will be very excited to keep their shoes on.” She clarified that in some cases, travelers may still be asked to remove footwear if “additional layers of screening” are deemed necessary by TSA agents.

The shoe removal policy began in 2006, in response to the 2001 attempted bombing by Richard Reid, known as the “shoe bomber.” Since then, all passengers between the ages of 12 and 75 had to take off their shoes at security checkpoints — unless enrolled in TSA PreCheck, a paid program that allows travelers to bypass several screening steps, including removing shoes, belts, and laptops.

Although the new policy now applies to all travelers, PreCheck will continue offering a faster experience, as passengers still need to place other items (jackets, laptops, toiletries) on the conveyor belt for scanning under standard screening procedures.

Noem also revealed that TSA is reviewing additional policies to further simplify and expedite airport security. Upcoming trials will include dedicated lanes for military personnel and families with young children, and the agency expects to pilot more innovations in the next six to eight months.

In recent years, TSA has explored facial recognition technology, implemented Real ID requirements, and deployed advanced imaging equipment as part of its security modernization efforts. These initiatives are meant to improve safety while reducing friction in the travel experience.

The TSA was created in 2001 following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. It marked a major shift in airport security by replacing private contractors with federal agents. Despite widespread familiarity with TSA processes, travelers have long voiced frustrations about long lines, delays, and confusing protocols, especially during peak travel periods.

The policy shift follows public complaints highlighted earlier this year by Sean Duffy, former transportation secretary under President Donald Trump, who labeled TSA as the “#1 travel complaint” on social media. Shortly afterward, Trump dismissed TSA Administrator David Pekoske, who had been reappointed by President Biden. The position currently remains vacant, according to the TSA’s website.

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