Getting “SSSS” on your boarding pass is not a mistake – it is a sign for secondary safety screening selections, adding additional screening before flying.
Even if you are approved for time-saving TSA Precheck programs and/or global entries, you can’t exempt these horrible letters.
That’s what it means, why it happens and how it can be handled smoothly.
Related: What to do if TSA Precheck is not marked
What does SSS mean?
SSS means you have been selected as an enhanced security filter. The choice is made by the Transport Safety Administration’s safe flight system, not the airline or door agent. Filters to the right at regular checkpoints, separate secondary areas or doorways. The latter is common in some international departures.
Safe flights cover flights from within the United States to the plane, so SSS can be found on domestic and international itineraries at U.S. and international airports.
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Why You May Get SSSS
TSA will not publish exact selection criteria. Safe flight uses risk-based analysis along with random elements. Sometimes related situations include:
- Last minute or one-way international tickets
- Irregular booking or payment method
- Certain destinations or routes
- Similarities between passenger names and individuals on the watch list
Importantly, speeding screening is never guaranteed. Even occasionally you can choose TSA Precheck members.
Related: 8 ways to get free or discounted TSA Precheck, global entries and clear ways to
How to tell you that you were selected
If you are selected for additional screening, it will usually be noticed before you arrive at the airport. Online or mobile check-in may be blocked and you will be instructed to view the agent to print the boarding pass.
After issuance, the letters of SSSS will be displayed on the document. At checkpoints, passengers with SSSS usually point through standard screening lanes instead of TSA Precheck.
At many airports, TSA also uses credential authentication technology to scan your ID and verify your flight details on the podium, but you still need a boarding pass to board.
What to expect in SSS
If you do find those worried letters on your boarding pass, it is important not to panic. This doesn’t mean you will have a hard time boarding. However, the following are expected:
- Property Screening: Your carry may be opened and checked. Officials can wipe your hands and/or items for explosive trace detection.
- Body screening: You may perform advanced imaging; patting is common. You can always apply for a private screening with your peers/witnesses of your choice.
- Electronics: Keep the device charged and accessible. You may be asked to cheer them on. This is most common in some US-bound international flights, but enhancements are required.
- Where does it happen: Auxiliary filtering can take certain routes before boarding at the main checkpoint or door.
You can ask the TSA supervisor to handle any issues or complaints you may encounter during the screening period, but this will increase the time of the process.
Related: Yes Official: Travelers no longer need to take off their shoes at TSA checkpoints
How to prepare
If your boarding pass is marked with SSS, you plan to arrive at the airport earlier than usual, as additional screening may take extra time. Make sure your electronics are fully charged and organized so you can quickly remove them and power them when asked.
A neat packaging can also help, especially if you separate dense items, powders and ropes to make your bag easier to inspect.
Most importantly, be patient and collaborative. Officials simply follow the procedures and keeping the organization usually makes the process faster.
What to do if you continue to get SSSS
If SSS appears almost every trip, apply for the Department of Homeland Security’s Traveler Compensation Investigation Program. Through the login.gov account, you can submit details and receive a seven-digit remedial control number for future bookings. This can help resolve duplicate misunderstandings.
For quick help, contact @asktsa on X or Facebook Messenger or contact the text “Travel” at 275-872. Travelers with disabilities or medical conditions can also call TSA Cares at 855-787-2227 for ideal travel 72 hours.
Bottom line
SSS means you have been tagged for additional filtering. Timing varies by airport and queue, so make sure to set up for extra time. Show up early to get your property organized and recharged, and work with officials.
If it becomes a recurring issue, DHS travel may help prevent repeated choices.
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