What USDOT and TSA Changes Mean for Your Next Flight
I hope everyone had a wonderful Labor Day weekend! As we head into one of the busiest travel seasons of the year. Those of us at PG’s Travel want to share a few helpful reminders, updates and a TSA Gateside test our government is conducting.
Travelers heading to U.S. airports will notice significant operational changes at security checkpoints, driven by updated guidelines from the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and its agency, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Aimed at streamlining security lines without compromising passenger safety, these shifts promise a smoother journey—provided you prepare before arriving at the terminal.
Key Checkpoint Updates:
- Strict REAL ID Enforcement & Confirm ID Fee: All adult domestic travelers (18 and older) must present a REAL ID driver’s license (marked by a star) or another federally accepted form of ID, such as a passport. Passengers arriving without an acceptable ID are referred to the TSA Confirm ID verification system, which incurs a $45 fee and significant delays.
- No-Shoe Policy Relaxed: Advanced 3D computed tomography (CT) scanners and upgraded screening lanes now allow all passengers to keep their shoes on during primary screening.
- Electronics and Liquids Stay Packed: Thanks to modern CT imaging, travelers using upgraded lanes no longer need to remove laptops or small liquid bags from carry-ons.
- Liquid Exemptions Expanded: While the standard 3-1-1 rule applies to most passenger liquids, 11 categories—including full-sized liquid medications, baby formula, breast milk, and gel packs—are explicitly exempt and permitted in larger quantities.
- Safety Rules for Batteries: Due to thermal hazard risks, spare lithium-ion power banks and portable chargers are strictly banned from checked luggage and must be kept in carry-on bags.
- Gateside Access Returns (Gateside by TSA PreCheck): In a shift echoing pre-9/11 airport culture, the TSA has launched Gateside by TSA PreCheck. This program allows non-flying visitors to pass through security and join loved ones at the gate.
- How It Works: Active TSA PreCheck members and Global Entry holders with a Known Traveler Number (KTN) can apply online 1 to 3 days in advance for a free 1-day pass. Once approved, visitors pass through expedited PreCheck lanes using a digital pass and valid ID.
- Participating Locations: The program is live across 13 major test hubs, including Los Angeles (LAX), Las Vegas (LAS), San Diego (SAN), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), and Salt Lake City (SLC).
If evaluated successfully, expanded visitor gate access is expected across additional U.S. airports in the coming year.
For more travel tips, contact me: patrick.pgstravel@gmail.com or call 503-521-9338.
