TSA rules for medications, wheelchairs, insulin, and medical devices through airport security. Your rights and what to expect.
Key Rules
Prescription medications are allowed without quantity limits in carry-on and checked bags
Medical liquids (insulin, saline, etc.) are exempt from the 3-1-1 rule
Syringes and needles are permitted when accompanied by injectable medication
Wheelchairs and mobility aids go through security but will be inspected
You can request a private screening for medical devices
Medications and medical devices are allowed through security in both bags, and medically necessary liquids are exempt from the 3-1-1 rule. Pills do not need original bottles. Declare liquid medication, syringes, and mobility or breathing equipment to the officer before your bag enters the X-ray.
How medical items are screened
Tell the officer before screening starts — Say what you are carrying — liquid medication, insulin, an insulin pump, a CPAP, sharps — before your bag goes on the belt. This avoids a surprise bag search.
Separate medical liquids from the quart bag — Insulin, saline, liquid prescriptions, and nutritional formula can exceed 3.4 oz in reasonable quantities. Take them out and hand them to the officer for separate screening.
Request alternate screening if needed — You can ask for a visual inspection instead of X-ray for medication, and for a pat-down instead of the body scanner if a device should not go through it.
Devices come out of the case — CPAP machines and nebulizers are removed from their bags and X-rayed. Put the mask and tubing in a clear plastic bag to keep them off the bin surface.
Mobility equipment is screened at the checkpoint — Wheelchairs, walkers, canes, and scooters go through inspection with you and never count against your carry-on allowance.