Flying this summer? You can now keep your shoes on at Jacksonville International Airport
Some good news for experienced travelers and parents flying with children: ticketed passengers no longer have to remove their shoes in the TSA screening areas of Jacksonville International Airport and other airports across the nation, according to a change in policy by the Transportation Security Administration.
That should lead to faster security screening times and shorter lines for passengers anxious to get to their departure gate to make their flight for a business trip, summer vacation or holiday gathering.
The policy change became official on Tuesday, July 8, when Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed in a press conference that the TSA policy requiring most travelers to remove their shoes at airport security checkpoints is no more.
What does that mean for TSA PreCheck? Is it still worth it? Here are some things you should consider when going through a security checkpoint at Jacksonville International Airport.
Do you have to take your shoes off at Jacksonville International Airport?
Nope!
Kristi Noem, Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees the Transportation Security Administration, announced in a press conference on July 8 that TSA will no longer require travelers to remove their shoes at TSA checkpoints.
What does TSA stand for?
TSA stands for Transportation Security Administration.
The agency, founded in November 2001 following the 9/11 attacks, was created to oversee security and protect all transportation systems to ensure freedom of movement for people and commerce.
What is TSA fluid limit? Do liquids still need to be in a clear bag?
"You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes in your carry-on bag and through the checkpoint," the TSA website states.
Containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. Those larger than 3.4 ounces should be packed in checked luggage.
What is a TSA acceptable ID?
Department of Homeland Security promotional photo encouraging U.S. residents to get a REAL ID before May 7, 2025
Passengers 18 and older must show valid identification at TSA checkpoints.
Acceptable forms of identification, according to TSA include, but are not limited to:
- REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent)
- State-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
- U.S. passport or U.S. passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- Permanent resident card
- Foreign government-issued passport
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
Is TSA PreCheck worth it? What having TSA PreCheck gets you
With TSA PreCheck, travelers have many benefits, including:
- You don't have to remove your shoes, belts, and light jackets.
- Electronics and 3-1-1 liquids can stay in your bag.
- About 99% of TSA PreCheck passengers wait less than 10 minutes, TSA says.
- Children 17 years old and under can join adults with TSA PreCheck when TSA PreCheck appears on the child’s boarding pass.
- Active Military Members and Department of Defense Civilians receive TSA PreCheck for free, as a benefit of their employment and service.
- TSA PreCheck is available at over 200 airports with 90+ airlines nationwide.
How to get TSA PreCheck (or renew your membership)
To get a TSA PreCheck membership, follow these steps:
- 1. Apply online at tsa.gov/precheck.
- 2. Visit an enrollment location
- Visit includes fingerprinting, providing documents, photo capture and payment. Find locations near you.
- 3. Get your TSA PreCheck number and add to reservations
- Once you are approved, you will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN). Add this to your airline reservations.
Guests can renew their TSA PreCheck membership online at tsa.gov/precheck up to six months before its expiration date or renew in person at an enrollment center. The new membership period begins when the current one ends.
Contributors: Eve Chen, USA Today and Cheryl McCloud, USA Today Network - Florida
This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Flying this summer? You can now keep your shoes on at Jacksonville International Airport
