Why you may not need a boarding pass to get through security - The Points Guy (2024)

FAQs

Why you may not need a boarding pass to get through security - The Points Guy? ›

Select airports and security checkpoints around the country now have TSA credential authentication technology (CAT). The portable CAT machines help speed travelers through security a bit faster since TSA officials will simply scan your photo ID and send you on your way. No need to show your boarding pass.

Boarding pass and ID will no longer be required at some of the biggest airports in the USA. Travelers with TSA PreCheck will soon be able to breeze through airport security without showing a boarding pass or an ID document, as long as they go through a facial scan.

Eliminating the need to show a boarding pass is one of several ways TSA is making the airport security process more streamlined and faster. In addition to the self-service kiosks, the agency is also rolling out a new self-service baggage screening procedure for TSA PreCheck members.

TSA doesn't publish specific guidelines on why certain passengers get SSSS markings on their boarding passes. Anecdotally, passengers with unusual travel patterns, one-way international flights and travelers to certain countries get it the most. It is also possible that TSA assigns SSSS markings randomly.

How you got flagged with an SSSS code for additional security screening. SSSS stands for “Secondary Security Screening Selection. It's an indication that the airline or the TSA likely flagged you for additional TSA screening.

What to expect. Any person entering a secure zone of the Domestic and International terminal or boarding a flight will be subject to passenger screening. This includes passengers, people accompanying passengers to the boarding gate, aircrew and airport workers.

A mobile boarding pass is an electronic document on a personal mobile device that allows you to go through security and board your flight.

Adult passengers 18 and older must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint in order to travel. Beginning May 7, 2025, if you plan to use your state-issued ID or license to fly within the U.S., make sure it is REAL ID compliant.

An agent will review your name, photo, address and date of birth, then cross-check to see that the information on your travel documents matches your ID. Keep in mind that the Real ID Act is now in effect, and it aims to deter terrorists' ability to use fake or fraudulently obtained IDs.

If you see the SSSS code on your boarding pass it means you have been selected for extra security screenings, which may take additional time. Most likely, you will go through a metal detector, receive a pat-down and have your hands and luggage swabbed to test for explosives.

Is SSSS randomly selected? ›

It stands for Secondary Security Screening Selection. There are all kinds of reasons you may get selected for it or it could just be completely random. Traveling one way and or to high risk countries can get you selected as can being on a watch list.

In some cases, you may be able to contact your airline or TSA in order to get the SSSS removed. Explain the situation and ask if there is anything you can do to remove the SSSS, such as provide evidence of your travel itinerary, proof of identity, etc.

You're Deemed Suspicious Prior to Check-In

Paying for any of your tickets in cash. Booking only a one-way ticket out of the country. Booking your ticket extremely last-minute. Traveling to or from a high-risk country.

According to the TSA, any passenger with the four-letter code on their boarding pass can be swabbed for residue of illegal substances, such as drugs or explosives. Those passengers will also face additional questioning over travel plans and previous trips.

And no, if you've been randomly chosen, SSSS on your boarding pass isn't permanent. Chances are it won't be on your next booking and there's a chance you will never be selected for additional screening ever again. In many cases it's just luck of the draw.

Itineraries that include indirect routes, multiple airlines, or unnecessary connections (especially in countries with which the U.S. doesn't have good diplomatic relations) can also trigger further examination. The payment method and how flights are booked also come into play.

Despite the alarming appearance, children who contract SSSS generally experience complete recovery within two weeks if diagnosed and treated promptly.