Why Are Shoes a Big Deal at Airport Security?
Since 2006, most travelers have been required to remove their shoes during airport security screening. This policy was introduced after a failed shoe bombing attempt, making footwear one of the key focus areas during scans. Shoes are screened separately to ensure they do not contain hidden items or threats.
Do You Still Have to Remove Your Shoes in 2025?
Yes — most passengers must still remove their shoes at security checkpoints. However, several groups qualify for exemptions:
- TSA PreCheck members are allowed to keep their shoes on.
- Children under 12 and seniors 75 and older are exempt in most cases.
- Travelers with medical needs or disabilities may request special accommodations.
How to Avoid Removing Shoes at Security
To skip shoe removal entirely, travelers can sign up for the following programs:
- TSA PreCheck – Offers faster lines and no need to remove shoes, belts, or light jackets.
- Global Entry – Includes TSA PreCheck and is ideal for international travelers returning to the U.S.
- CLEAR – While it doesn’t exempt you from shoe removal, it speeds up the identity verification process.
Tips for Faster Shoe Screening (If You Must Remove Them)
For travelers not enrolled in expedited screening programs, the following tips can help speed things up:
- Wear slip-on shoes to save time during removal and re-wearing.
- Avoid footwear with metal parts, which may trigger alarms.
- Place your shoes flat in the tray, away from electronics or liquids.
- Wear socks — going barefoot through security is common and often unsanitary.
International Airports: What About Outside the U.S.?
Airport security rules differ globally. In many European and Asian airports, shoe removal is not mandatory unless an alarm is triggered during the body scan. For example:
- United Kingdom: Shoe removal is situational and often not required.
- Germany and Japan: Passengers usually keep their shoes on unless further screening is needed.
Final Word
While removing shoes at airport security may seem inconvenient, it’s still a required part of TSA protocol for most travelers. Thankfully, there are reliable ways to skip the hassle — such as enrolling in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. Whether flying domestically or internationally, knowing these shoe rules helps avoid delays and makes your travel experience smoother.
