DHS to End ‘Shoes-Off’ Travel Policy

July 9, 2025 – You’ve likely heard about it by now, but if you’re going through a TSA airport security checkpoint, you likely will not now have to take your shoes off.

On Tuesday, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced a new policy which will allow passengers traveling through domestic airports to keep their shoes on while passing through security screening. Other required security measures will remain.  

“Ending the ‘Shoes-Off’ policy is the latest effort DHS is implementing to modernize and enhance traveler experience across our nation’s airports,” said Noem. “We expect this change will drastically decrease passenger wait times at our TSA checkpoints, leading to a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience.”

Noem went on to say security remains the top priority.

“Thanks to our cutting-edge technological advancements and multi-layered security approach, we are confident we can implement this change while maintaining the highest security standards,” Noem said.  

The policy of taking shoes off at the airport started after an incident in 2001 when Richard Reid attempted to set off explosives tucked in his shoes while on a flight from Paris to Miami. Fortunately, Reid had trouble detonating the shoes and crew members noticed. They stepped in and stopped Reid from setting off what were 10 ounces of explosive material tucked inside his shoes.  

The plane was diverted to Logan International Airport in Boston, where Reid was taken into custody. He later pleaded guilty to eight terrorism-related charges and is now spending life in federal prison. Reid became known as the “Shoe Bomber” and TSA initiated the policy to stop similar incidents from happening.  

The entire news release announcing the new policy is found on the Department of Homeland Security website.