Gender Diversity

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is committed to treating all passengers with respect and dignity. TSA screening is conducted without regard to a person’s race, color, sex, gender, gender identity, national origin, religion, or disability. The agency recognizes that specific security procedures and technology may raise concerns for transgender, non-binary, and gender-nonconforming travelers and is working to make the travel experience safer and more inclusive.

Before You Fly

The TSA PreCheck® application now includes an additional gender marker to better support non-binary and gender non-conforming individuals. Applicants can select their gender based on self-identification, not the gender listed on government documents.

To update your gender information in the TSA PreCheck® program, call (855) 347-8371 (weekdays, 8 a.m.–10 p.m. ET) or submit a request online.

Your listed gender won’t affect your screening process as long as your name, date of birth, and Known Traveler Number (KTN) match your reservation details. You don’t need to update other IDs to enroll or benefit from TSA PreCheck®. Learn more at the TSA PreCheck FAQ.

Booking Your Flight

When booking a ticket, use the exact name and birthdate from your government-issued ID. TSA also recommends using the same gender marker listed on that ID. If your airline doesn’t offer the “X” or non-disclosed gender option, contact their customer service. TSA is actively working with airlines to improve gender marker options in booking systems.

TSA Cares: Request Help in Advance

Before your trip, contact the TSA Cares helpline at (855) 787-2227 with questions about what to expect at the checkpoint. You can also request a Passenger Support Specialist to help guide you through screening if needed.

At the Airport

Identification at Checkpoints

Present your government-issued ID and boarding pass when passing through the TSA checkpoint. The TSA officer will verify your identity, but gender is not considered when confirming your documents. If your name doesn’t match both documents, you may need to visit your airline’s counter for an updated boarding pass.

Informing the TSA Officer

If you carry medically necessary liquids, equipment, or medications, notify the TSA officer before screening. These items should be separated from other belongings. You can also request a private inspection if your bag needs to be opened.

Physical Screening: What to Expect

You may be screened using Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT), a walk-through metal detector, or through a pat-down.

AIT Technology Update

As of June 2023, TSA uses a gender-neutral algorithm for AIT screening. This has reduced the number of false alarms by 50%, meaning fewer unnecessary pat-downs for all passengers, including transgender and non-binary individuals. If you have concerns during this process, ask to speak with a TSA supervisor.

Pat-Down Procedures

If the technology alerts or you opt out of it, you’ll receive a pat-down. A pat-down is typically performed by an officer who matches their assessment of your gender presentation. However, you can request a pat-down from an officer who matches your gender identity.

You may also:

• Request that the pat-down be done in private.
• Ask a travel companion to be present.
• Be assured that no clothing will be removed to reveal private areas.
• Be asked to adjust loose-fitting clothes but not to expose sensitive areas.

For more details, visit TSA’s Security Screening.