Security Screening
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) handles security screening of passengers and baggage at Nashville International Airport® (BNA®).
The security checkpoint at BNA® opens daily at 3:30 a.m. CT.
TSA PreCheck® has now been absorbed into CLEAR. Travelers can complete enrollment in person at any of the CLEAR kiosks located on Level 3.
Learn more about TSA PreCheck®
The enrollment process is fast, requires no appointment and includes fingerprinting and a photo, with KTN (Known Traveler Number) typically arriving in 3-5 days.
For their CLEAR's hours of operation or locate additional information, click here.
ASK TSA / GENERAL PUBLIC ASSISTANCE
Before heading to the airport, you can reach out to TSA regarding checkpoint questions by texting "Travel" to AskTSA (275-872) or via social media through X (@AskTSA), Facebook Messenger (http://www.fb.com/AskTSA), or Apple Business Chat.
An automated virtual assistant is available 24/7 to answer commonly asked questions, and AskTSA staff are available 365 days a year from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT for more complicated questions.
TSA CARES
Passengers who need additional assistance through security screening may request a TSA Passenger Support Specialist (PSS). A PSS is a Transportation Security Officer (TSO) who has received specialized training, including how to effectively assist and communicate with individuals with disabilities, medical conditions or those who need additional screening assistance.
Individuals should request passenger assistance at least 72 hours in advance by contacting our TSA Cares passenger support line at (855) 787-2227. Live assistance for both the TCC and TSA Cares is available weekdays, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT, or weekends and holidays from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. CT.
Travelers may also reach the TSA Contact Center at 866-289-9673 or via an online form. An automated service is available 24/7.
SCREENING TECHNOLOGY
The TSA uses millimeter‑wave Advanced Imaging Technology and walk‑through metal detectors to screen passengers. Millimeter‑wave scanners safely screen individuals without physical contact and can detect both metallic and non‑metallic threats, including weapons and explosives concealed under clothing.
Most passengers may choose to decline advanced imaging technology screening and instead undergo a physical screening. However, travelers whose boarding passes indicate they were selected for enhanced screening—per TSA regulations—must complete imaging screening. This applies only in limited circumstances, and the vast majority of passengers will not be affected.
For more details, see the TSA’s Frequently Asked Questions.
SAFETY
Advanced Imaging Technology is safe and meets national health and safety standards.
The system uses non‑ionizing radio‑frequency energy in the millimeter‑wave spectrum, which has no known adverse health effects.
It does not use X‑ray technology.
PRIVACY
The TSA follows strict privacy standards when using Advanced Imaging Technology.
The system relies on automated target‑recognition software that removes passenger‑specific images and instead identifies potential threats on a generic outline of a person.
The outline is the same for every passenger.
For more information, visit www.tsa.gov
MEDIA INQUIRIES
For media inquiries and breaking news, please email TSA's Regional Spokesperson and/or TSA Public Affairs (TSA Public Affairs Weekdays: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. CT)