Securing a Smooth Journey: How to Navigate Airport Checkpoints in 2025

For decades, moving through airport security has been the part of travel most passengers dread. Long lines, unpacking bags, taking off shoes—these small but frustrating rituals became the price of air travel. But in 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is rolling out changes designed to modernize checkpoints and make them more efficient, all while keeping security airtight.

At Johnson Security Bureau, we believe that informed travelers are prepared travelers. As we support airports and aviation partners across the country, we also see it as part of our mission to help passengers understand what to expect at checkpoints. Here’s how air travel looks different this year—and what you should know before you head to the airport.

The End of the Shoe Shuffle

For over twenty years, travelers in the United States have had to remove their shoes during screening. It was a policy born in the wake of heightened security concerns in the early 2000s, but one that became a universal source of irritation. In July 2025, TSA finally announced that the requirement is no more.

Now, passengers can keep their shoes on during the screening process—a change that has already shaved minutes off wait times in major airports. Still, aviation security officers may request shoe removal in rare cases, so it’s best to wear comfortable, easy-to-remove footwear just in case.

REAL ID Becomes the Standard

Another major milestone this year: beginning May 7, 2025, all travelers must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another TSA-accepted form of identification (such as a valid passport) when flying domestically. Travelers with older, non-compliant IDs will be denied access beyond security.

This change has been years in the making, and airports are reporting a surge of last-minute questions and issues from passengers unaware of the deadline. Before heading to the airport, double-check your ID—if your driver’s license doesn’t have the REAL ID star symbol, it’s time to update.

Liquids and Electronics: A Work in Progress

For now, the familiar "3-1-1 rule" for liquids remains in place: liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less, packed in a single quart-sized bag. Medications, formula, and breast milk remain exempt but must be declared.

However, TSA has begun deploying advanced CT scanners at checkpoints that can analyze bags in three dimensions. These scanners have the potential to make separating liquids and electronics a thing of the past. While a nationwide rollout isn’t complete yet, this technology points toward a near future where checkpoints are quicker and less intrusive.

A Few More Things You Can’t Pack

Travelers should also be aware of new prohibited items. In 2025, TSA officially banned gas-powered or butane hair tools—like certain cordless curling irons—from checked luggage, citing fire risk. Similarly, lithium batteries and power banks must always be carried in hand luggage, not checked bags.

These rules may sound small, but violations can cause delays for passengers and checkpoints alike. Packing smart is one of the simplest ways to avoid unnecessary headaches at security.

Faster, Smarter Checkpoints

Technology is also reshaping how passengers move through checkpoints. Biometric verification systems are being tested at several airports, allowing CLEAR+ members to pass through eGates with just a facial scan. Families and military members are seeing new dedicated lanes that reduce stress for those traveling with children or on service orders.

And of course, programs like TSA PreCheck remain as valuable as ever. While the shoe policy change benefits everyone, PreCheck still allows travelers to keep laptops in their bags, wear belts and jackets through screening, and generally move through lines faster.

How to Prepare for Your Next Trip

So, what does all this mean for the everyday traveler? It means preparation is still key. Arrive early—at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international ones. Check your ID before you leave home. Start with an empty bag when packing, so you don’t forget an item that might slow you down at security. And if you’re a frequent flyer, consider investing in PreCheck or CLEAR to take advantage of the latest expedited options.

Our Commitment

At Johnson Security Bureau, we see aviation security as a balance between safety, efficiency, and traveler experience. Every change to the security process impacts how airports operate and how passengers feel when they fly. By keeping both our clients and travelers informed, we aim to make the skies not just safer, but smoother for everyone.

Travel should connect people, not frustrate them. With the 2025 TSA updates, we’re moving toward a future where passengers can spend less time at checkpoints and more time enjoying the journey.

Johnson Security Bureau: Protecting communities, securing the future.