Is TSA Cares for you?

TSA Cares is a program designed to help travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, or other special needs have a smoother and less stressful experience at airport security checkpoints. It provides additional assistance and accommodations to ensure safety and comfort during screening.

Benefits of TSA Cares include personalized help from TSA agents, such as explaining the screening process in advance, allowing extra time for screening, and providing support with medical devices, mobility aids, or service animals. The program can also arrange for a Passenger Support Specialist to meet you at the checkpoint to guide you through the process. TSA Cares helps reduce anxiety and confusion by preparing travelers and ensuring staff are aware of their needs.

Who should apply? TSA Cares is meant for travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, or those who may need extra assistance during security screening. This includes people with mobility impairments, sensory disabilities, cognitive or developmental disabilities, medical devices like pacemakers or insulin pumps, and travelers with service animals.

How to apply: You do not need to formally apply in advance. Instead, TSA recommends contacting TSA Cares at least 72 hours before your travel date by calling their toll-free helpline. This allows TSA to arrange for assistance and be prepared for your arrival. The helpline number is 1-855-787-2227. When you call, provide your travel details and explain the kind of assistance you need. TSA Cares does not guarantee expedited screening but ensures accommodations and help are available.

Using TSA Cares can make airport security less stressful and more accessible for travelers who need it.