The covid-19 global pandemic has certainly affected U.S. travelers, including those who need to fly. One of the first things President Biden did at the start of his administration was to issue an Executive Order requiring face masks at TSA security checkpoints and throughout the transportation network. Implementation began on February 2, 2021.
As a temporary exemption from the 3-1-1 rule, TSA is allowing one oversized liquid hand sanitizer container, up to 12 ounces per passenger, in carry-on bags. Keep in mind that all other liquids, gels, and aerosols brought to the checkpoint continue to be limited to 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters carried in one quart-sized bag.
Also, if your driver’s license or state-issued ID expired on or after March 1, 2020, and you are unable to renew it at your state driver’s license agency, you may still use it as acceptable identification at the TSA checkpoint. TSA will accept expired driver’s licenses or state-issued IDs a year after expiration. The Department of Homeland Security has extended the REAL ID enforcement deadline to October 1, 2021. This is great news as we have heard so many stories about how backed up things are at DMV’s around the country. If you want more information about how the TSA is handling things at airports, use this link.
Do also read up on travel restrictions abroad, covid-19 testing requirements, and quarantining, as protocols vary with different countries and states. Best to know before you go, instead of being taken by surprise.