TSA & Travel Tips

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is a full service federal governmental agency designed to handle the screening of all departing passengers at ILM.  TSA was created to strengthen the security of the nation’s transportation systems and ensure the freedom of movement for people and commerce. TSA uses a risk-based strategy and works closely with transportation, law enforcement and intelligence communities to set the standard for excellence in transportation security.  All departing passengers must be screened by TSA before boarding a flight.  For more information about TSA, please visit TSA.gov

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) provides security screening services for ILM.

For additional security screening information click below:

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Please visit the TSA website at www.tsa.gov/tsa-precheck to apply for or renew your TSA PreCheck status. Please note, the Pre-Check centers are by appointment only.  You must first complete the “Pre Enroll” process to obtain an appointment.

Travel Tips

TSA is committed to helping passengers understand the security screening process in order to improve their travel experience. Prior to airport arrival, here is what travelers need to know:

Prohibited Items

For the safety and security of the traveling public, TSA, FAA and airlines prohibit certain items from being brought onto airplanes in carry-on and checked baggage. TSA’s website features a detailed prohibited items list under the traveler information and the “Can I Bring…?” tool found on TSA.gov. Even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or not allowed through the checkpoint if it triggers an alarm during the screening process, appears to have been tampered with or poses other security concerns.

TSA Travel Tips

3-1-1 Rule
Liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes, in limited quantities, are safe to bring in carry-on baggage and must comply with the following rules:

  • 3.4 ounces or less for liquids, gels, aerosols, creams and pastes.
  • 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag to hold the liquids.
  • 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin.

Medically required liquids such as baby formula and food, breast milk and medications are allowed in excess of 3.4 ounces and must be declared to a TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process.

Acceptable IDs & N.C. REAL ID

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires adult passengers (18 and over) to show valid identification at the airport checkpoint in order to travel.  Review the List of Valid Identification.  TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling with a companion within the United States. Contact the airline for questions regarding specific ID requirements for travelers under 18.

On May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration will begin enforcing REAL ID requirements at airport security checkpoints. Beginning May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another TSA-acceptable form of identification at airport security checkpoints for domestic air travel.  

The N.C. REAL ID is obtained in a driver license office and is just like your traditional license or ID but has a gold star endorsement at the top. Driver licenses and IDs without a gold star are noted “Not for Federal Identification.”  Beginning May 7, 2025, if you don’t have a N.C. REAL ID driver license or ID card, you will need to provide additional identification along with your standard license or ID to board flights.  Learn More About the N.C. REAL ID.  

“My TSA” Mobile App

“My TSA” is a mobile application that provides helpful information on the go, including which items are allowed in carry-on or checked baggage. There is also information on ID requirements, liquids rules and real-time operating status for U.S. airports from the Federal Aviation Administration plus additional travel tips. To access the mobile web version of “My TSA” on a mobile device, visit tsa.gov/mobile. Native iOS and Android versions of “My TSA” are available on iTunes and Google Play.

TSA Cares and Wounded Warriors

TSA Cares is a helpline designed to assist travelers with disabilities and medical conditions. Travelers may call to ask questions about screening policies, procedures and what to expect at the security checkpoint prior to traveling. In addition, TSA Cares facilitates the screening process for wounded service members and veterans including individuals associated with a wounded warrior program. Travelers may also request a passenger support specialist at the airport.

Screening Technology

TSA uses advanced imaging technology and walk-through metal detectors to screen passengers. Travelers have the option to request a pat-down as an alternative. Whenever possible, the pat-down will be performed by a same-gender officer.

Additional Travel Tips

  • Travelers are encouraged to check carry-on baggage before leaving home to remove prohibited items, such as firearms and knives.
  • When packing, de-clutter and organize carry-on baggage to facilitate screening.
  • Travelers are encouraged to arrive two hours before scheduled departure time.
  • Travelers are encouraged to select their travel attire with security screening in mind.  Excessive jewelry, embellishments, and other metallic accessories may need to be removed.  Also it is recommended to wear slip-on shoes to remove and replace their shoes quickly.
  • Pets must be removed from their carrying cases. The case must be screened through the X-ray machine. A leash will help maintain control of the pet but should be removed when carrying the pet through the metal detector.

Additional information can be found on TSA’s Website.