Flying in 2025 is about to get interesting. The TSA has announced a major change in carry-on luggage, and travelers should brace themselves for an era of more streamlined, but also more complex, security measures. If you’re someone who just tosses your essentials in a bag and breezes through TSA PreCheck, you might need to rethink your approach.

But before we even get to that, there’s another issue that’s quietly tripping people up: changing your name for TSA PreCheck. It sounds simple, right? A quick update, a few clicks, maybe a visit to an office? Nope.

Turns out, the name change TSA PreCheck process is a multi-layered bureaucratic beast, and if you don’t handle it properly, you could end up stuck at security explaining to an unimpressed TSA agent why your boarding pass doesn’t match your ID.

Let’s break everything down, from the REAL ID finally going into effect (yes, for real this time) to new tech at security checkpoints that may either save you time or leave you completely confused.

REAL ID Enforcement (No, It’s Not a Drill This Time)

For years, the federal government has been threatening to enforce the REAL ID Act, only to delay it over and over again. Well, the countdown is finally over—May 7, 2025, is the deadline. If you don’t have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license (or an alternative like a passport), you’re not getting on that domestic flight.

Not all states automatically issue REAL IDs. Some still offer both standard and compliant licenses, meaning if you renewed your license in the last few years and didn’t specifically ask for a REAL ID, you might still be holding an outdated form of identification.

How to check if your license is compliant:

• Look for a star in the upper right corner—this is the universal REAL ID marker.

• Some states, like California, use a bear and star combo instead of a plain star.

• If your license doesn’t have this marking, it’s not REAL ID-compliant, even if it’s brand new.

Travel Hack: If you’re unsure, just bring your passport. It’s universally accepted, and you won’t have to worry about airport agents debating whether your license is valid.

TSA PreCheck Name Change Headaches

Changing your name on TSA PreCheck isn’t as straightforward as you might think. If you recently got married, divorced, or legally changed your name for any reason, don’t assume your TSA PreCheck membership will update automatically.

Here’s what you need to do:

1. Contact TSA directly—do not assume the airline can fix this for you.

2. Submit legal documents proving the name change (marriage certificate, court order, or updated passport).

3. Wait. And wait. And wait some more. Processing times can be frustratingly long, so do this months before your trip.

Why this matters: TSA PreCheck only works if the exact name on your PreCheck profile matches your boarding pass to the letter. If your airline ticket still has your maiden name but your ID has your new married name, you’re out of luck.

Major Carry-On Changes: The New Reality of Packing

The TSA has announced a major change in carry-on luggage, and while it’s not as dramatic as banning all liquids, it does mean some items might not be making it past security anymore.

So, what’s different?

1. Larger electronics will require additional screening – If you’re bringing a gaming console, a full-sized camera, or medical devices, expect to have them inspected separately.

2. Certain “harmless” items are getting banned – TSA is reevaluating batteries, power banks, and even some types of food items due to security concerns.

3. Automated security lanes are being expanded, which means less human interaction but potentially more random checks.

Traveler Tip: If you travel often, it might be time to rethink your carry-on strategy. TSA officers have been increasingly strict about overstuffed bags, and if yours is a ticking time bomb of poorly packed essentials, you might be asked to check it at the gate.

Alternative IDs (Because Sometimes You Forget Your Wallet)

If you suddenly realize at the airport that your REAL ID is missing, or worse, you totally forgot that the TSA deadline finally arrived, don’t panic—yet. There are other ID options you might be able to use.

Acceptable alternatives include:

• Valid passport (obviously)

• Global Entry or NEXUS card

• Military ID (which also lets you skip ahead in line sometimes)

• Veteran Health ID Card (yes, really)

• Permanent resident card (Green Card)

Pro Tip: If you have an expired U.S. passport that’s less than one year old, some TSA agents may allow it as a backup if you also have other supporting identification. Not guaranteed, but worth knowing.

Digital IDs: Your Phone Might Be Your Boarding Pass AND Your ID

The TSA is rolling out mobile driver’s license (mDL) scanning at select airports, meaning you might not even need to pull out your physical ID at all.

Here’s how it works:

1. You upload your driver’s license to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet (if your state allows it).

2. At security, you tap your phone at the checkpoint.

3. The system verifies your identity without revealing unnecessary personal details.

Where this is available in 2025:

• Los Angeles (LAX)

• Denver (DEN)

• Atlanta (ATL)

• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW)

• Phoenix (PHX)

• Baltimore/Washington (BWI)

This is a game-changer for frequent travelers, but not every airport is on board yet. Also, make sure your phone is charged, because a dead battery = no ID.

Security Checkpoints: Faster, But Maybe More Confusing

New CAT-2 units (Credential Authentication Technology) are being introduced nationwide, promising to make security screening more efficient.

What’s different?

• Laptops and tablets can stay in your bag.

• Liquids may no longer need to be separated in some airports with advanced scanners.

• Less need for pat-downs and manual checks.

What this means for you: You’ll probably move through security faster, but be prepared for inconsistency. Some airports will still follow old-school rules, while others will fully embrace this new system.

Is 2025 Travel More Hassle or Less?

On the surface, these TSA changes seem like they’ll make travel smoother—better screening tech, digital ID options, and clearer carry-on rules. But in reality, travelers will have to deal with a lot of transition pains as these updates roll out.