The Transportation Security Administration now allows some people to pass through security without a ticket. The administration also got rid of the shoes-off rule in July 2025, but it still maintains the 3.4-ounce rule for liquids, but the days of dumping out your water bottle before airport security could be numbered.
The TSA is considering allowing some TSA PreCheck travelers to bring water bottles through security, as airports get new 3-D, CT scanners capable of detecting liquid contents, according to USA TODAY, and other sources. ABC News cited the TSA administrator, while CBS News cited senior administration officials.
TSA did not confirm the reports to USA TODAY, but said:
"TSA will continue to explore opportunities to enhance security and
improve the traveling experience for the public. As technology evolves, TSA’s multi-layered security protocols will evolve, including benefits for our most trusted travelers."
"Any changes to screening policies will be announced through our official channels. As always, we encourage travelers to follow our social media accounts, send questions to AskTSA, and visit TSA.gov for more information about our policies."
Currently, travelers are limited to travel-size containers of liquids no more than 3.4 ounces. That rule has been in effect since 2006.
If green-lit, CBS said the potential change regarding water bottles could be introduced "at a select number of airports in the coming months."
TSA charges fee for travelers without Real ID, passport
In November 2025, TSA revealed it would start requiring non-Real ID travelers to pay an $18 fee to get through security at the airport. The administration later increased the fee to $45, effective Feb. 1, 2026.
Under that new rule, travelers without the required identification, such as a Real ID or passport, will have their identity verified at a new biometric kiosk system to pass a checkpoint. The fee would also cover the costs and resources used for the new technology, according to ABC News.
This fee and new technology will allow passengers to pass through a checkpoint without ID for 10 days if they travel again within that timeframe.
How to check TSA wait times at Ohio airports
If you're headed to an Ohio airport like John Glenn International or Rickenbacker in Columbus, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport or Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, you can monitor TSA wait times before you make your way to the airport.
Ohio already has some of the shortest TSA waits in the U.S., but the MyTSA App allows passengers to see wait times at their airport, providing 24/7 access to the most frequently requested airport security information on any mobile device, according to the TSA's website.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: A major TSA rule may be changing for some travelers
