How Do I Navigate TSA Security With a Disability, Medical Condition, or Mobility Limitation?

Summary

The steps

1. 1

   Contact TSA Cares at Least 72 Hours Before Your Flight

   TSA Cares is the Transportation Security Administration's dedicated support service for travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, or other circumstances that may affect the checkpoint experience. Established by TSA to bridge the gap between standard screening procedures and the needs of travelers with complex medical situations, TSA Cares is the primary advance-coordination channel at all federalized US commercial airport checkpoints as of October 2026.

   Reach TSA Cares by phone at 1-855-787-2227 (TTY: 1-855-787-2227) or by submitting a request online at tsa.gov/travel/passenger-support. TSA asks that you contact them at least 72 hours before your departure so they have time to coordinate with the checkpoint at your departure airport.

   When you contact TSA Cares, describe your condition, device, or limitation as specifically as you are comfortable doing. TSA will use that information to arrange a Passenger Support Specialist (PSS), a trained TSA officer who will meet you at the checkpoint, explain each step of the screening process, and stay with you throughout. The service is available to travelers at no charge.

   If your travel plans are last-minute and you cannot contact TSA Cares 72 hours in advance, you can still request a Passenger Support Specialist directly at the checkpoint. Advance notice makes coordination more reliable, but the right to request a PSS at the checkpoint itself is not contingent on advance contact.

   Critical distinction: TSA Cares covers the security checkpoint only. Wheelchair assistance from the curb to the gate, priority boarding, and in-flight accommodations are airline obligations under 14 CFR Part 382 and must be arranged separately with your carrier.

   Do this

   Call TSA Cares at 1-855-787-2227 or submit a request at tsa.gov/travel/passenger-support at least 72 hours before your flight.,Describe your medical condition, device, or mobility limitation specifically when you contact TSA Cares so they can brief the checkpoint team appropriately.,Note the reference number or name of your TSA Cares contact for your records.,If your trip is last-minute, go directly to the TSA checkpoint and ask any officer to summon a Passenger Support Specialist.

   Example

   A traveler who uses a power wheelchair and wears an insulin pump contacts TSA Cares at 1-855-787-2227 three days before departure. TSA coordinates with the checkpoint. A Passenger Support Specialist meets the traveler at the checkpoint entrance, explains that the wheelchair will be ETD-swabbed separately and the pump will be screened in place, and guides the traveler through each step without requiring repeated explanation.

   Best practice

   Add the TSA Cares call to your pre-trip checklist alongside booking your accessible seat and arranging airline wheelchair assistance under 14 CFR Part 382 Section 382.91. The two services cover different parts of your journey and must both be arranged proactively.
2. 2

   Prepare and Carry a TSA Notification Card

   The TSA Notification Card is a voluntary, wallet-size card available at tsa.gov/travel/passenger-support. It lets you communicate your medical condition or disability to a TSA officer discreetly, without making a verbal announcement in a busy public checkpoint area.

   The card has space for you to describe your condition, the devices or aids you are traveling with, and any relevant instructions for officers. Practical examples of what to write: 'I have a left below-knee prosthetic that cannot be removed'; 'I have an insulin pump on my abdomen; my device manufacturer advises against AIT scanner exposure'; or 'I have an ostomy pouch; please conduct any additional screening in a private room.' Handing the card to the officer at the start of the interaction sets the context immediately and professionally, without requiring you to speak loudly in a crowded area.

   The Notification Card is not an exemption from screening and does not guarantee any specific accommodation. It is a communication tool. TSA officers are trained to respond to it by adapting their approach within TSA policy. If you prefer, you can write the same information on any piece of paper or a card of your own design; the format is not regulated by TSA.

   Carry the card in a pocket or wallet section you can reach without searching through your bag at the bin station. Keep a digital photo of the completed card on your phone as a backup.

   Do this

   Download the TSA Notification Card from tsa.gov/travel/passenger-support and fill it in clearly before your trip.,List every relevant condition, device, or aid: prosthetics, implants, ostomy pouches, insulin pumps, CGMs, pacemakers, and mobility aids.,Store the card in a pocket or wallet section you can reach quickly at the checkpoint.,Update the card whenever your medical situation changes, such as after a new implant or a change in devices.

   Example

   A traveler with an ostomy pouch and a hip replacement fills out a TSA Notification Card listing both conditions and noting a preference for private screening. At the checkpoint, they hand the card to the officer before entering the scanner. The officer reads it and directs the traveler to a private screening room, eliminating the need for any public verbal exchange about the ostomy device.

   Best practice

   Prepare the card at least a week before your trip, not at the airport. A card filled out calmly at home is clearer and more complete than one written under time pressure at a check-in desk.
3. 3

   Understand Your Rights at the TSA Checkpoint

   TSA security screening at US commercial airports is governed by federal policy that includes specific, published protections for travelers with disabilities and medical conditions. Knowing these rights before you reach the checkpoint helps you advocate for yourself calmly and effectively.

   Federal regulatory framework: The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), 49 U.S.C. 41705, prohibits discrimination against passengers with disabilities in air travel. Its implementing regulation, 14 CFR Part 382, sets minimum service standards airlines must meet, including wheelchair assistance (Section 382.91), accessible lavatories (Section 382.63), and the complaint process (Section 382.159). TSA checkpoint procedures are governed separately by federal security law and TSA's own standard operating procedures. Airport terminal facilities operated by public entities must comply with ADA Title II for accessible routes and signage throughout the terminal.

   Key rights under TSA policy, current as of October 2026 per tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/disabilities-and-medical-conditions:

   • TSA cannot require you to remove a prosthetic limb, brace, support device, ostomy pouch, insulin pump, or other medical device as a condition of passing through the checkpoint.
   • You may request a private screening room at any point. Private screening is conducted by a TSA officer of the same gender by default, and you may bring a companion or witness of your choice.
   • TSA officers are required to explain each step of additional screening before it begins, including pat-downs, ETD swabs, and visual inspections.
   • You may ask for a TSA supervisor at any time if you believe a procedure is not being conducted appropriately.
   • TSA cannot require medical documentation as a condition of screening, though carrying documentation helps officers understand your situation quickly.

   If you believe your rights were not respected, submit a complaint through the TSA Contact Center at tsa.gov, or file a disability-related complaint with the US Department of Transportation's Aviation Consumer Protection Division under 14 CFR Part 382 Section 382.159. Document the date, airport, and details of what occurred as soon as possible after the event.

   Do this

   Memorize or note the key phrase: 'I would like to request a private screening room and a witness.' You can say this at any point during the checkpoint process.,If an officer asks you to do something that conflicts with TSA policy, calmly state your understanding and ask to speak with a supervisor.,After your trip, submit a complaint at tsa.gov or to the DOT Aviation Consumer Protection Division under 14 CFR Part 382 Section 382.159 if needed.,Review TSA's disability and medical conditions page at tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/disabilities-and-medical-conditions before every trip, as policy details can be updated.

   Example

   A traveler with a below-knee prosthetic is asked by an officer to remove it for inspection. The traveler calmly states that TSA published policy at tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/disabilities-and-medical-conditions does not permit requiring prosthetic removal, and asks to speak with a supervisor. The supervisor confirms the policy and arranges an ETD swab and visual inspection of the prosthetic in place, consistent with TSA's published alternative screening procedure.

   Best practice

   Staying calm and factual is the most effective approach in any checkpoint disagreement. A clear, quiet reference to the specific TSA policy page, rather than a general assertion of rights, gives the officer a concrete and verifiable reference point.
4. 4

   Know What to Expect for Specific Devices and Conditions

   Different medical devices and conditions involve different screening considerations at US hub airport checkpoints. The following is based on TSA's published guidance at tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/disabilities-and-medical-conditions, current as of October 2026. Always verify at tsa.gov before you fly, as procedures are subject to update.

   Wheelchairs and mobility aids: Travelers who cannot leave their wheelchair will be screened in it. The wheelchair itself is screened separately using an ETD swab and visual inspection. Motorized wheelchairs and scooters may require additional inspection due to battery and motor components. Canes, walkers, and crutches pass through the X-ray belt or are swabbed. This is consistent with TSA's published alternative screening procedures for mobility-impaired travelers.

   Prosthetic limbs and braces: Removal is never required. Officers use a combination of the AIT body scanner image, a visual inspection, and an ETD swab of the device's surface. Inform the officer before entering the scanner so they can prepare the appropriate approach.

   Pacemakers and implanted cardiac devices: Inform the officer before entering any scanner. TSA can direct you to a pat-down rather than the AIT body scanner (millimeter-wave technology) or the metal detector. Consult your cardiologist about your specific device before flying, as recommendations vary by device model and manufacturer. Carry your device identification card.

   Insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs): These devices can generally remain in place during screening. TSA may conduct an ETD swab. Some manufacturers advise against exposing pumps and CGMs to AIT scanners; this guidance is part of the device's FDA-cleared labeling under 21 CFR Part 880. Check your device documentation and request a pat-down alternative if the manufacturer advises against scanner exposure.

   Ostomy devices: TSA cannot require removal or exposure of an ostomy pouch. If the device triggers an alarm, the officer will discuss options with you. Request a private room if you prefer. The United Ostomy Associations of America (ostomy.org) publishes device-specific traveler guidance.

   Oxygen concentrators and CPAP machines: Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) permitted on board under 14 CFR Part 382 Section 382.133 must go through the X-ray belt at the checkpoint. Remove the POC from its bag and place it in a bin, the same process as a laptop. CPAP machines are treated identically. Inform the officer if you need assistance lifting the device.

   Do this

   Check your device manufacturer's FDA-cleared labeling for guidance on AIT scanner exposure before your trip, particularly for insulin pumps and CGMs.,Inform the TSA officer of every relevant device or condition before you enter the scanner, not after an alarm sounds.,Request an ETD swab as an alternative to AIT scanner exposure if your device manufacturer's labeling advises against it.,For oxygen concentrators, confirm FAA-permitted status under 14 CFR Part 382 Section 382.133 and pack the device in a bag that opens easily for X-ray removal.

   Example

   A traveler wearing a CGM checks the manufacturer's FDA-cleared labeling before flying and finds a recommendation to avoid AIT scanner exposure. At the checkpoint, before entering the scanner, the traveler informs the officer and shows the relevant section of the manufacturer's labeling on their phone. The officer arranges a thorough pat-down and ETD swab as an alternative, consistent with TSA's published alternative screening procedures.

   Best practice

   Keep a digital photo of your device manufacturer's screening guidance on your phone. Referencing the specific labeling language, rather than a general statement about your device, gives the officer a concrete and verifiable basis for arranging an alternative screening method.
5. 5

   Prepare Your Documentation and Pack Strategically

   TSA cannot require medical documentation as a condition of screening, but carrying the right paperwork can significantly smooth the checkpoint interaction, particularly for complex or unfamiliar devices. The following is recommended based on TSA's published guidance and standard practice at US hub airport checkpoints.

   Useful documents to carry:

   • A physician's letter on practice letterhead describing your condition, the devices you carry, and any relevant instructions. Especially useful for implanted devices, insulin pumps, and ostomy equipment.
   • Your device identification card, if your device came with one. Many pacemakers, cochlear implants, and insulin pumps include a wallet card with the device model and manufacturer contact information.
   • A completed TSA Notification Card (see Step 2).
   • Prescription labels for liquid medications you are carrying above the standard 3.4 oz (100 ml) limit. Under TSA's 3-1-1 rule, medically necessary liquids are exempt from the volume limit but must be declared to a TSA officer at the checkpoint and may be tested separately.

   Packing tips for travelers with medical equipment:

   • Pack medical supplies (syringes, lancets, test strips, catheters, ostomy supplies) in a clear, organized bag so they are easy to identify on the X-ray screen and easy to access if a bag search is needed.
   • Carry enough supplies in your carry-on for your full trip plus a buffer for delays. Do not rely solely on checked baggage for essential medical supplies.
   • Insulin and other temperature-sensitive medications may be carried with ice packs or gel packs. Declare these to the officer; they will be screened separately.
   • Spare lithium batteries for powered mobility devices or medical equipment must travel in carry-on baggage, not checked bags, under federal hazardous materials rules. Check the TSA 'What Can I Bring?' tool at tsa.gov for current watt-hour limits.

   Do this

   Ask your physician for a letter on practice letterhead describing your condition and devices at least one week before your trip.,Pack all medical supplies in a clear, organized bag within your carry-on for easy X-ray identification.,Carry enough medical supplies for your full trip plus a buffer in your carry-on, never exclusively in checked baggage.,Declare all medically necessary liquids, ice packs, and gel packs to the TSA officer before screening begins.

   Example

   A traveler with Type 1 diabetes packs insulin, syringes, lancets, and test strips in a clear zip pouch at the top of their carry-on. They carry a physician's letter and their insulin pump device identification card. At the checkpoint, they hand the TSA Notification Card to the officer, declare the insulin and ice pack before screening begins, and the officer processes everything without a bag pull, consistent with TSA's published procedure for declared medically necessary liquids.

   Best practice

   Treat your medical supply bag as a checkpoint-ready kit: clear, organized, and always in the same outer pocket of your carry-on. Consistency across trips means you will not forget to declare items or leave documentation at home.
6. 6

   Arrive Early and Coordinate With Your Airline Separately

   Travelers with disabilities or medical equipment benefit from arriving at the airport earlier than the standard recommendation. Additional screening steps, coordination with a Passenger Support Specialist, and the logistics of screening mobility aids all take more time than a standard checkpoint interaction. Building in extra time removes the pressure of a tight connection and gives you space to advocate for yourself calmly if needed.

   Airline obligations are separate from TSA Cares. Under 14 CFR Part 382 Section 382.91, airlines are required to provide wheelchair and mobility assistance to passengers who request it, from the curb to the gate and between gates on a connection. This is a distinct legal obligation from TSA's checkpoint support and must be requested directly with the airline, typically at the time of booking or by calling the airline's accessibility desk. Arranging TSA Cares does not cover airline assistance, and vice versa.

   At large hub airports, the distance from the security checkpoint to your gate can be significant. If you need a wheelchair or electric cart from the checkpoint to the gate, request that service from your airline at check-in, not only at the curb. On a tight connection, inform a gate agent at your arrival gate immediately upon landing so they can coordinate assistance to your next gate under the airline's connecting passenger procedures.

   Hub airport scale matters: At the largest US hub airports, terminals are extensive and distances between concourses can require trams or moving walkways. Requesting assistance proactively, both from TSA Cares and from your airline under 14 CFR Part 382, is the most reliable way to ensure that assistance is in place at each stage of your journey rather than having to locate it under time pressure.

   Do this

   Arrive at the airport earlier than the standard recommendation to allow time for additional screening steps and coordination.,Contact your airline's accessibility desk when booking to arrange wheelchair assistance under 14 CFR Part 382 Section 382.91, priority boarding, and any other needed services.,Request gate-to-gate wheelchair or cart assistance from your airline at check-in, not only at the curb.,On a tight connection, inform the gate agent at your arrival gate immediately so they can coordinate assistance to your next gate.

   Example

   A traveler using a manual wheelchair books a connecting itinerary through a large hub. They contact the airline's accessibility desk at booking to arrange wheelchair pushers at both airports under 14 CFR Part 382 Section 382.91, and separately contact TSA Cares for checkpoint support. At the hub, an airline representative meets them at the arrival gate and escorts them to the connecting gate, while the TSA Cares arrangement covered the outbound checkpoint at departure.

   Best practice

   Keep a written record of every accessibility request you make with your airline, including the date, the representative's name if given, and the confirmation number. If a service is not in place when you arrive, having that record helps you escalate quickly and calmly to a supervisor.

About This Guide: Sources, Scope, and Limitations

FAQ

What is TSA Cares and how do I request it?

TSA Cares is a helpline and advance-request service for travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, or other circumstances that may affect screening. Call 1-855-787-2227 or submit a request at tsa.gov/travel/passenger-support at least 72 hours before your departure. TSA will coordinate with the checkpoint at your departure airport to have a Passenger Support Specialist available to guide you through screening. The service is available to travelers at no charge.

What is the TSA Notification Card and how does it work?

The TSA Notification Card is a voluntary, wallet-size card downloadable at tsa.gov that lets you describe your medical condition, device, or disability to a TSA officer discreetly, without a verbal announcement in a public area. The card is not an exemption from screening, but it helps officers understand your situation quickly and adapt their approach within TSA policy. You can also write the same information on any card or paper you prefer; the format is not regulated.

Can TSA make me remove my prosthetic limb or brace during screening?

No. TSA published policy at tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/disabilities-and-medical-conditions states that travelers are never required to remove a prosthetic limb, brace, or support device as a condition of passing through a security checkpoint. The officer will screen the device in place using a combination of the AIT body scanner image, a visual inspection, and an Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) swab of the device's surface. Inform the officer before you enter the scanner, and request a private screening room if you prefer.

What happens if my pacemaker or insulin pump triggers the metal detector?

Inform the TSA officer before entering any scanner if you have a pacemaker, implanted defibrillator, insulin pump, or other implanted or worn electronic medical device. TSA officers can direct you to a pat-down rather than the Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) body scanner or metal detector. Carrying a physician's letter or device identification card is helpful, though TSA cannot require medical documentation as a condition of screening. Consult your cardiologist or device manufacturer about your specific device before flying, as recommendations vary by model.

How does TSA handle ostomy devices during screening?

TSA cannot require you to remove or expose an ostomy pouch or related device. If the device triggers an alarm or appears on the body scanner, the officer will discuss screening options with you. You may request a private screening room at any point. TSA recommends informing the officer discreetly before screening begins, either verbally or using the TSA Notification Card. The United Ostomy Associations of America publishes additional traveler guidance at ostomy.org.

What if I use a wheelchair and cannot walk through the screening lane?

Travelers who use wheelchairs, scooters, or other mobility aids will be screened without being required to leave their chair if they are unable to do so. The wheelchair itself is screened separately using an ETD swab and visual inspection. A Passenger Support Specialist arranged through TSA Cares (1-855-787-2227) can meet you at the checkpoint and guide you through the entire process. Separately, under 14 CFR Part 382 Section 382.91, your airline is required to provide wheelchair assistance from the curb to the gate when requested.

What are my rights if I believe TSA screening was conducted improperly?

You may ask to speak with a TSA supervisor at the checkpoint at any time. After your trip, submit a complaint through the TSA Contact Center at tsa.gov, or file a disability-related complaint with the US Department of Transportation's Aviation Consumer Protection Division under 14 CFR Part 382 Section 382.159. Document the date, airport, officer description, and what occurred as soon as possible after the event to support any complaint.