New TSA Rule 2025: No More “Shoes-off” Policy at Airport Security!
by Travelopod
July 09, 2025
Tired of taking your shoes off at airport security? Well, things are finally changing with the New TSA Rule 2025!
After almost 20 years of asking travelers to remove their shoes, the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) is set to change this annoying rule.
With the roll-out of this change on July 6th, 2025, in a handful of airports, Travelers in the U.S. will hopefully no longer need to take off their shoes while going through security. The TSA intends to implement the new rule at all major airports nationwide by the end of this month.
Let’s break down what’s changing and how it affects your travel experience.
Why Did We Have to Remove Shoes in the First Place?
Why Did We Have to Remove Shoes in the First Place?
In December 2001, Richard Reid tried to blow up a plane with explosives hidden in his shoes. Though he failed, his plot led to tougher airport security and the rule about taking off shoes at checkpoints
As a result, the TSA introduced the shoes-off rule in 2006, requiring millions of travelers to remove their shoes during airport security checks. This rule aimed to prevent similar threats, but quickly became one of the most disliked parts of flying.
What’s Changing Now (TSA Shoe Scanner)?
What’s Changing Now (TSA Shoe Scanner)?
Thanks to new technology, the TSA is now able to scan shoes while you wear them. That means many travelers can walk right through without taking them off, as long as nothing unusual shows up.
The change started on July 6 at airports like:
- Baltimore/Washington (BWI)
- Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
- Philadelphia (PHL)
- Portland (PDX)
- Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky (CVG)
- Piedmont Triad (GSO)
It is also now in effect at LAX and LaGuardia (NYC).
By the end of the week, it may be active at even more airports across the U.S.
What About TSA PreCheck Travelers?
What About TSA PreCheck Travelers?
No change here!
TSA PreCheck travelers didn’t have to remove their shoes even earlier, and that will continue. As for non-PreCheck travelers, the new policy gives them a smoother experience, too.
Will Everyone Benefit?
Will Everyone Benefit?
Not everyone—yet.
This update is rolling out in phases. Airports with new screening equipment are getting it first. But soon, most airports in the U.S. will join in.
If your airport hasn't changed the rule yet, it’s only a matter of time.
What You Should Still Remember
What You Should Still Remember
Even with this update, some things don’t change:
- You may still be asked to remove your shoes if the scanner alarms.
- You still need to take off jackets, belts, or electronics, unless you’re in PreCheck.
- Always arrive early, especially if you’re flying from a busy airport.
The Bottom Line
The Bottom Line
The implementation of the new TSA rule 2025 means faster and easier security checks. Travelers won’t have to stop and take off their shoes, making the process smoother for everyone.
It's a small change that brings a big improvement to your journey. The more airports adapt their equipment, the more passengers will enjoy a pleasant experience.
So next time you travel and see passengers keeping their shoes on, smile and walk through proudly—your journey just got easier!
Travelopod makes your journey smooth and budget-friendly. Call our experts at +1-929-269-8013 to book your flights to India or anywhere in the world—and enjoy big savings!
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