A passenger should inform a Transportation Security Officer (TSO) before screening begins if he or she cannot remove his or her shoes due to a disability or medical condition. Passengers can use TSA’s Notification Card to communicate discreetly with security officers. However, showing this card or other medical documentation will not exempt a passenger from additional screening when necessary.

Passengers who cannot remove their shoes can be screened using imaging technology, metal detector, or a thorough patdown. If a passenger cannot or chooses not to be screened by imaging technology or a walk-through metal detector, the passenger will be screened using a thorough patdown procedure instead. A patdown procedure also is used to resolve any alarms of a metal detector or anomalies identified by imaging technology.

Regardless of whether a passenger is screened by a metal detector, imaging technology, or a patdown, his or her shoes are subject to additional screening, which may include explosive trace detection. If explosive material is detected, the passenger will have to undergo additional screening.

A passenger can request to be seated during this additional screening and may need to lift the bottom hem of his or her pants.

Links:

• Advanced Imaging Technology and Metal Detector Screening
• Pat-down Screening
• Disabilities and Medical Conditions
• TSA's Notification Card

Please click on the links below for specific information about what to expect for passengers who: