Do Children Have to Take Their Shoes Off at Airport Security?
The short answer
No for children 12 and under. TSA says they can keep on shoes, light jackets and headwear. TSA also uses modified screening procedures for children who appear to be 12 or younger, and standard screening applies from age 13.
Shoes and outerwear
TSA says children 12 and under can keep on shoes, light jackets and headwear. For advanced imaging technology (AIT), light jackets must be removed and placed on the X-ray belt.
How children are screened
Modified procedures apply to children who appear to be 12 years old or younger, and officers consult parents or guardians about the child's screening. Children will not be separated from their parent or guardian.
Children who can walk through the metal detector unassisted may go separately from their parent. Infants and small children may be carried through. If a child alarms, they get multiple passes and other procedures to reduce the need for a pat-down.
For AIT, a child must be able to stay standing in the required position for 5 seconds. You cannot be screened by AIT while carrying an infant or child.
Strollers, car seats and baby items
TSA says strollers, umbrella strollers, baby carriers, car and booster seats and backpacks must be screened by X-ray, and infants and children must be removed from them and carried through the metal detector. Equipment too large for the X-ray machine gets a visual or physical inspection.
Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks and baby or toddler food (including puree pouches) over 3.4 oz (100 ml) are allowed in carry-on bags and need not fit in a quart-sized bag. Tell the officer at the start of screening if you carry them over 3.4 oz.
Teens and PreCheck
Standard screening applies from age 13. In a PreCheck lane, TSA says PreCheck passengers do not need to remove shoes. See our PreCheck guidance for who can join the lane.
Rules and fees change, so check the official page linked below before you travel.
Sources: TSA: Traveling with children. Read 5 November 2026. Rules and fees change, so check the official page before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
Do children 12 and under keep their shoes on at TSA?
Yes. TSA says they can keep on shoes, light jackets and headwear.
Do teenagers keep shoes on?
Standard screening applies from age 13. TSA's own pages are inconsistent on shoes in standard lanes, so see our 2026 screening guide.
Can I stay with my toddler through security?
TSA says children will not be separated from their parent or guardian.
Must breast milk fit in the quart bag?
No. TSA says formula, breast milk and baby food can exceed 3.4 oz and need not fit in a quart-sized bag, but tell the officer at the start.
Can I request private screening?
Yes. TSA says you can request private screening at any time.