TSA Touchless ID hits 60 airports

The Transportation Security Administration says its TSA PreCheck Touchless ID program is now live at 65 U.S. airports. (tsa.gov) The system lets eligible travelers verify identity with a facial scan instead of handing over a driver’s license or passport at the checkpoint. TSA says the image is compared with the passport photo linked to the traveler’s airline profile. (tsa.gov) (thepointsguy.com) Not every flier can use it. TSA says travelers need an active TSA PreCheck membership, a participating airline profile, and valid passport information uploaded in that profile. (tsa.gov) The participating airlines listed by TSA are Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines. Travelers also have to opt in through the airline or at check-in. (tsa.gov) Even in the touchless lane, TSA says passengers must still bring a physical, acceptable ID. If the biometric check fails or an officer asks, that backup document is still required. (tsa.gov) That matters more now because TSA says non-REAL ID-compliant state licenses stopped being accepted at airport checkpoints on May 7, 2025. Acceptable alternatives include a passport, Global Entry card, or other IDs on TSA’s list. (tsa.gov) TSA says the photos taken for Touchless ID are not used for law enforcement or surveillance and are deleted within 24 hours of the scheduled flight departure. The agency describes the system as a faster and more private way to verify identity. (tsa.gov) The rollout marks a shift from a limited pilot at major hubs to a nationwide network that now covers dozens of large and midsize airports. Travel site The Points Guy reported in March that the expansion was still underway; TSA’s own page now says it has reached 65 airports. (thepointsguy.com) (tsa.gov) For frequent domestic travelers with PreCheck, the tradeoff is simple: fewer document checks at the lane, but no skipping the requirement to carry valid ID. (tsa.gov 1) (tsa.gov 2)