TSA lines are getting worse—here's how people are skipping them

Amid long waiting lines at airports, some travelers say they’re avoiding the worst delays by using TSA PreCheck Touchless ID.

Airports continue to struggle with longer security lines during the partial government shutdown, which has forced TSA workers to remain on the job without pay. The Department of Homeland Security says hundreds of employees have resigned or taken unscheduled leave, further complicating efforts to efficiently screen the daily flow of travelers.

What Is TSA PreCheck Touchless ID?

PreCheck Touchless ID streamlines the security screening process by using facial-comparison technology to speed up identity verification, according to the TSA. Eligible travelers flying with participating airlines can pass through dedicated lanes more quickly, creating a smoother, more convenient airport experience.

TSA PreCheck Touchless ID eligibility includes an active airline profile with a participating carrier, enrollment as a current TSA PreCheck traveler, and a valid passport uploaded to your airline profile.

Travelers can participate by updating their airline profile with a participating carrier, adding their Known Traveler Number and valid passport details, and opting in either through their profile or during check‑in. Eligible airlines include American, Alaska, Delta, Southwest, and United.

Travelers must confirm that the TSA PreCheck Touchless ID indicator appears on their mobile boarding pass to use the dedicated lane, and they are still required to carry a REAL ID‑compliant physical ID as a backup in case a TSA officer requests it.

The agency says that by Spring 2026, TSA PreCheck Touchless ID will be at 65 airports.

Travelers wait in long lines at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on March 16, 2026.

What People Are Saying

Users are bragging on social media about skipping massive TSA lines.

“Last week, I arrived to a security line at least 100-150 people deep at MIA Terminal D Pre-Check. The line extended well past the zigzag and at least 25-30 people into the general waiting area. I was able to walk up to the person stationed at the beginning of the line, flash my Touchless-enabled boarding pass, and bypass the entire line. 30 minutes or more turned into less than fifteen seconds,” a Reddit user wrote on Monday in the r/ProLifeTips subreddit.

X user @isercukierman posted on Monday: “We were dropped off this morning at 5:35 am and were thru security at 5:45 am. TSA precheck touchless for the win.”

Another X user, @LKoperek, posted on Monday: “At 6:30am this morning I was the only one in line for touchless TSA Pre-Check airside A. Never doubted TPA!”

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