Tsa Pat-Downs: What Unaccompanied Minors Need To Know

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has strict security measures in place to ensure the safety of passengers. These measures include screening passengers and their carry-on baggage for explosives and other dangerous items. While these measures are necessary to prevent prohibited items from being brought on board, some travellers, especially those who are frequently subjected to additional screening, may find them invasive and uncomfortable.

TSA officers will consult with parents or guardians of children aged 12 and under to alleviate any concerns during the screening process and resolve any alarms. Modified screening procedures are in place for this age group to reduce the likelihood of a pat-down screening. Standard screening procedures apply for travellers aged 13 and above.

During a pat-down screening, TSA officers will apply sufficient pressure to ensure the detection of prohibited items. Sensitive areas of the body, such as the breasts, groin, and buttocks, may be inspected using the back of the hand, and in limited cases, the front of the hand. Travellers who feel uncomfortable can request a private screening accompanied by a companion of their choice. A TSA officer of the same gender will explain the procedure and perform the pat-down.

While travellers cannot refuse a pat-down screening if they trigger an alarm, they can take steps to minimise the likelihood of this occurring. For example, removing items such as keys, belts, and coins, which are known to set off alarms, before passing through the metal detector. Additionally, travellers who are anxious about the screening process can contact TSA Cares up to 72 hours before their trip to request assistance or carry a TSA notification card.

TSA pat-downs are used to determine whether prohibited items are concealed on the person

TSA pat-downs are used to determine whether prohibited items or other threats to transportation security are concealed on a person. A TSA officer will explain the pat-down process before and during the screening. They will advise you of the procedure to help you anticipate any actions before you feel them. Pat-downs require sufficient pressure to ensure detection, and areas may be checked more than once.

TSA officers use the back of their hands for pat-downs over sensitive areas of the body. In limited cases, additional screening involving a sensitive area pat-down with the front of the hand may be needed to determine that a threat does not exist. You will receive a pat-down by an officer of the same gender.

At any time during the process, you may request private screening accompanied by a companion of your choice. A second officer of the same gender will always be present during private screening. You should inform the officer if you have any medical conditions or painful areas when touched.

A pat-down may include an inspection of the head, neck, arms, torso, legs, and feet

A TSA pat-down is a physical screening procedure used to determine whether prohibited items or other threats to transportation security are concealed on a person's body. It involves a TSA officer inspecting your body with their hands, applying sufficient pressure to ensure the detection of potential risks.

The officer will use the back of their hands when touching sensitive areas of the body, but in limited cases, they may need to use the front of their hands for a more thorough inspection. You will be patted down by an officer of the same gender, and they will explain the procedure to you as they conduct it.

At any time during the process, you can request a private screening accompanied by a companion of your choice. A second officer of the same gender will always be present during these private screenings.

TSA officers are required to explain the pat-down procedure to the traveller before and during the search

Before the Pat-Down:

• The TSA officer will advise the traveller that a pat-down procedure is necessary and explain the reasons for it, such as an alarm being triggered during screening technology or as part of unpredictable security measures.
• The officer will inform the traveller about the standard procedure, including which parts of the body will be inspected, such as the head, neck, arms, torso, legs, and feet. They will also mention that this includes sensitive areas like the breasts, groin, and buttocks, and that the traveller may need to adjust their clothing.
• The officer will explain that the pat-down will be conducted by an officer of the same gender and that they will use the back of their hands for sensitive areas, with limited exceptions.
• The traveller will be informed that they can request a private screening at any time, accompanied by a companion of their choice, with a second officer of the same gender present.
• If the traveller has any concerns or needs, such as difficulty raising their arms, requiring a chair, or experiencing pain in certain areas, they will be encouraged to communicate this to the officer.

During the Pat-Down:

• As the pat-down proceeds, the TSA officer will continue to explain each step and describe the actions they are about to take, so the traveller is prepared.
• The officer will communicate which parts of the body they are currently inspecting and may provide a rationale for their actions, such as explaining that they are patting down the waistband because it triggered an alarm.
• Throughout the process, the officer will maintain a professional demeanour and respect the traveller's privacy and dignity.
• If at any point the traveller feels uncomfortable or wishes to stop the pat-down, the officer will respect their wishes and offer alternative screening methods or private screening.

By explaining the pat-down procedure before and during the search, TSA officers aim to create a clear and transparent process, reducing anxiety and ensuring travellers are informed and consenting participants.

Travellers can request a private screening accompanied by a companion of their choice

Travellers' Rights During TSA Screening

Travellers who are concerned about the security screening process at the airport may request assistance by contacting TSA Cares or by phoning (855) 787-2227. This includes travellers who have disabilities, medical conditions, or those who need additional assistance.

TSA Screening Procedures

TSA officers will consult parents or the travelling guardian of children aged 12 and under about the best way to relieve any concerns during the screening of a child and to resolve any alarms during screening. TSA has modified screening procedures for children 12 and under that reduce the likelihood of pat-down screening.

For travellers aged 13 and older, TSA’s standard screening procedures apply. This includes pat-down procedures, which are used to determine whether prohibited items or other threats to transportation security are concealed on the person.

Private Screening

At any time during the screening process, travellers may request private screening to be accompanied by a companion of their choice. A second officer of the same gender as the traveller will always be present during private screening. Travellers can also request a chair to sit on if needed.

Pat-Down Procedures

Pat-down procedures may include an inspection of the head, neck, arms, torso, legs, and feet. This includes head coverings and sensitive areas such as breasts, groin, and buttocks. Travellers may be required to adjust their clothing during the pat-down. The officer will advise travellers of the procedure to help them anticipate any actions before they feel them.

TSA officers use the back of their hands for pat-downs over sensitive areas of the body. However, in limited cases, additional screening involving a sensitive area pat-down with the front of the hand may be needed to determine that a threat does not exist. Travellers will always receive a pat-down by an officer of the same gender.

TSA PreCheck

Travellers can also opt for TSA PreCheck, which often allows travellers to use the metal detector over AIT screening. However, travellers could still be flagged for extra screening if the alarm is triggered.

Travellers can contact TSA Cares to request assistance at the checkpoint

TSA Cares is a helpline that provides travellers with additional assistance during the security screening process. It is aimed at travellers with disabilities, medical conditions, and other special circumstances.

To request assistance at the checkpoint, travellers can contact TSA Cares 72 hours prior to travelling. They can be reached by phone at (855) 787-2227 or through an online form.

TSA Cares can provide information on security procedures and answer questions about screening policies, procedures, and what to expect at the security checkpoint. This includes information on screening for travellers with disabilities and medical conditions, religious and cultural items, tribal/indigenous passengers, travellers with children, and more.

TSA Cares can also assist travellers whose screening experience did not meet their expectations. Travellers can request to speak with a supervisor at the checkpoint or submit feedback to the TSA Contact Center.

Frequently asked questions