The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has begun rolling out new electronic gates (eGates) at select airport security checkpoints as part of a pilot program designed to expedite identity verification and improve the passenger experience.

The eGates use biometric technology to automatically match a traveler’s identity document and boarding pass with their physical biometrics, eliminating the need for a manual check by a TSA officer. Officials say the technology enhances both security and efficiency, while reducing wait times at checkpoints.

The program is being piloted in partnership with CLEAR, a private company that operates under TSA’s Registered Traveler Program. According to the TSA, the initiative comes at no cost to U.S. taxpayers.

The first CLEAR eGates have launched at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). TSA expects to expand the program later this month to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), with the goal of installing them at all airports nationwide before next summer.

Officials emphasized that while CLEAR is operating the eGates, TSA will continue to oversee passenger identification and vetting. The new technology is part of TSA’s broader modernization strategy aimed at balancing stronger security measures with improved customer service.

This latest upgrade also follows a recent policy change allowing passengers to keep their shoes on at U.S. airport security checkpoints. The revised rule, effective July 2025, applies to passengers presenting a REAL ID-compliant identification.

Additionally, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem recently stated that the TSA is reconsidering the current ban on liquids passengers are permitted to bring on a plane.

“The liquids, I’m questioning. So that may be the next big announcement is what size your liquids need to be,” Noem said. “We have put in place in TSA a multilayered screening process that allows us to change some of how we do security and screening so it’s still as safe.”

The liquid ban was put in place following the discovery of a 2006 plot to use liquid explosives smuggled aboard carry-on luggage to blow up planes.

“Hopefully, the future of an airport, where I’m looking to go is that you walk in the door with your carry-on suitcase, you walk through a scanner and go right to your plane,” Noem added. “It takes you one minute.”