The Hated TSA Shoe Removal Rule Was Finally Phased Out
After nearly 20 years, the TSA is ending its shoes-off policy. Travelers will still need a Real ID, and advanced screening remains in place. Here’s what to expect on your next flight.


For nearly two decades, travelers across the country have followed the same routine at airport security: remove your laptop, take off your belt and yes, kick off your shoes. But starting this month, you can leave those shoes right where they belong: on your feet.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), under direction from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), announced that it’s ending its long-standing "shoes-off" policy at airport checkpoints. The change, effective immediately at most major U.S. airports, is part of a broader effort to modernize the passenger screening process and make air travel just a little bit less stressful.
"Ending the 'shoes-off' policy is the latest effort DHS is implementing to modernize and enhance the traveler experience across our nation's airports," said Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in a press release. "We expect this change will drastically decrease passenger wait times at our TSA checkpoints, leading to a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience."

Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
Why the shoes-off rule is ending
If you’ve ever wondered why travelers have been required to remove their shoes at airport security, the policy dates back to 2001, when a British man known as the "shoe bomber" attempted to detonate explosives hidden in his footwear during a flight. Since then, shoe removal has become a long-standing and often frustrating part of the airport screening process.
But times, and technology, have changed. Thanks to modern imaging scanners, advanced software and a multi-layered security approach, the TSA says it no longer needs passengers to remove their shoes to ensure safety.
The agency insists that the change will not compromise security and will instead help speed up checkpoint lines, especially during busy travel seasons.
What’s changing (and what’s not) at airport security
While you can now breeze through TSA with your shoes on, other security measures are still firmly in place.
Passengers must continue to:
- Show acceptable identification (REAL ID is now required for domestic flights).
- Go through identity verification and Secure Flight passenger vetting.
- Comply with carry-on screening and liquid rules.
TSA PreCheck members will still enjoy their usual expedited benefits, and the newer "Serve with Honor, Travel with Ease" program, launched earlier this month, offers perks to military families, including PreCheck discounts and fast-lane access at select airports.
A broader shift in airport screening
This policy shift is part of a bigger push by the Trump administration to redefine the airport experience. It's being introduced alongside initiatives like expanded biometric screening and the rollout of digital ID options at select checkpoints.
In May, the TSA completed its full rollout of REAL ID enforcement at U.S. airports, which has already seen a 94% compliance rate. It’s another sign that modernizing security doesn’t have to mean adding more red tape.
A small change with big relief for travelers
After years of grumbling about the shoes-off rule, many travelers are relieved to see it retired. While the policy change may seem symbolic, it represents a larger pivot toward more streamlined air travel.
And for weary travelers just trying to make it to their gate on time, being able to skip the barefoot shuffle at security is a welcome upgrade.
Related Content
Profit and prosper with the best of Kiplinger's advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and much more. Delivered daily. Enter your email in the box and click Sign Me Up.

Choncé is a personal finance freelance writer who enjoys writing about eCommerce, savings, banking, credit cards, and insurance. Having a background in journalism, she decided to dive deep into the world of content writing in 2013 after noticing many publications transitioning to digital formats. She has more than 10 years of experience writing content and graduated from Northern Illinois University.
-
8 Rules for Choosing the Right Financial Adviser
Not all advisers are created equal. Here's how to find one qualified to manage your wealth and protect your legacy. From verifying credentials to trusting your gut, follow these rules to find a financial adviser.
-
Don't Miss These Sub-$100 Prime Day Deals for a Smarter, Safer Home
Use these under-$100 Prime Day deals on Ring, Blink, Nest and other top smart home brands to upgrade your home for less this summer.
-
Don't Miss These Sub-$100 Prime Day Deals for a Smarter, Safer Home: Ring Doorbells, Nest Thermostats, Leak Detectors and More
Use these under-$100 Prime Day deals on Ring, Blink, Nest and other top smart home brands to upgrade your home for less this summer.
-
Forget Prime Day: Top Walmart Anti-Prime Deals You Can't Miss
Walmart Deals runs through July 13, giving shoppers two extra days compared to Amazon Prime. Here are the best anti-Prime deals to consider.
-
48 Anti-Prime Day Tech Deals You Should Get from Best Buy's Black Friday in July Sale Instead
Apple, Blink, Garmin, Samsung and more leading tech brands are on sale at Best Buy's competing Prime Day sale this week.
-
Sam's Club Takes On Amazon Prime With Big Summer Savings — But Is It Worth Joining?
With longer sales and seasonal deals, Sam's Club is making a strong case for summer value. Here's how to save.
-
These Prime Day Deals Also Qualify for Disappearing Tax Credits
There are many items for sale during Amazon Prime Day that help make your home more energy efficient and can apply towards tax credits that will expire soon.
-
California, South Florida, Long Island, New Jersey: The Places People Are Leaving in Droves in 2025
Skyrocketing costs and shifting priorities mean people are packing up and leaving some cities and states in droves, while others are flocking to more affordable or lifestyle-friendly destinations.
-
Should You Start a 'Trump Account' for Your Child?
"Trump Accounts" for kids is part of the One Big, Beautiful Bill that was just signed. Look at if it's worth it for your children.
-
Can You Be a Good Parent to an Only Child When You're Also a Business Owner?
Author and social psychologist Susan Newman offers advice to business-owner parents on how to raise a well-adjusted single child by avoiding overcompensation and encouraging chores.