Tools TSA Rules: What You Can Bring on a Plane

TSA has clear size-based rules for tools. Most hand tools under 7 inches are allowed in carry-on, while larger tools and bladed instruments must go in checked baggage.

26 items in this category with TSA carry-on and checked bag rules.

All Tools Items

  • Scissors (Small, under 4 inches) — Carry-on: Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Scissors (Large, over 4 inches) — Carry-on: Not Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Pocket Knife — Carry-on: Not Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Swiss Army Knife / Multi-Tool — Carry-on: Not Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Box Cutter / Utility Knife — Carry-on: Not Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Kitchen Knife — Carry-on: Not Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Hunting Knife — Carry-on: Not Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Corkscrew (with blade) — Carry-on: Not Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Corkscrew (without blade) — Carry-on: Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Ice Pick — Carry-on: Not Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Meat Cleaver — Carry-on: Not Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Sword / Saber — Carry-on: Not Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Screwdriver (under 7 inches) — Carry-on: Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Screwdriver (7 inches or more) — Carry-on: Not Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Wrench / Pliers (under 7 inches) — Carry-on: Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Wrench / Pliers (7 inches or more) — Carry-on: Not Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Hammer — Carry-on: Not Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Cordless Drill — Carry-on: Not Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Saw (Any Type) — Carry-on: Not Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Crowbar / Pry Bar — Carry-on: Not Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Axe / Hatchet — Carry-on: Not Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Level (Tool) — Carry-on: Conditions Apply, Checked: Allowed
  • Tape Measure — Carry-on: Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Allen Wrenches / Hex Keys — Carry-on: Allowed, Checked: Allowed
  • Socket Set — Carry-on: Conditions Apply, Checked: Allowed
  • Craft Scissors (Child/Round Tip) — Carry-on: Allowed, Checked: Allowed

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a screwdriver on a plane?

Screwdrivers shorter than 7 inches are allowed in carry-on. Longer ones must go in checked luggage.

Are pocket knives allowed in carry-on bags?

No, pocket knives of any size are prohibited in carry-on. Pack them in checked luggage.

Can I bring scissors through airport security?

Scissors with blades shorter than 4 inches from the pivot point are allowed in carry-on.

What is the 7-inch rule for TSA tools?

Hand tools 7 inches or shorter are allowed in carry-on. Anything longer must be checked.

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