Keep Your Shoes On

Jul 7, 2025

You can keep your shoes on at airport security again. After nearly two decades, TSA has ended its rule requiring passengers to remove their shoes at standard screening checkpoints. The rule was first put in place after the 2001 “shoe bomber” attempt by Richard Reid, and officially became standard in 2006. Now, TSA is rolling back the requirement because newer screening technology can detect threats without forcing everyone to go barefoot through security lines.

The change has already started at airports including Baltimore/Washington, Fort Lauderdale, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky, Portland, Philadelphia, and Piedmont Triad in North Carolina. Travelers are reporting that TSA agents are telling them to keep their shoes on, though the agency has not yet made a nationwide announcement confirming the rule is lifted everywhere. Rollout may vary by airport as new scanners are implemented.

Some outlets report the change applies only to passengers with REAL IDs, but TSA has not officially clarified that detail. PreCheck still remains valuable because it allows travelers to keep laptops, liquids, belts, and light jackets on, in addition to shoes.

Ending the shoe removal rule is part of a broader shift to make airport security more efficient without sacrificing safety. For travelers, this means no more cold, dirty floors and a faster screening process. However, experts note it is important to remain flexible, as rules may still differ depending on location and individual screening requirements.

For now, travelers can look forward to one small improvement in the often frustrating airport experience: keeping their shoes on while getting through security.