
TSA began testing the acceptance of digital IDs, including mobile driver’s licenses (mDLs) from participating states, at select TSA PreCheck® checkpoints in early 2022. Starting in March 2022, TSA began conducting field tests to assess these upgraded CAT-2 units. TSA also conducted additional pilots to further test this technology, starting in March 2021 at DCA, PHX, IND, and MIA. TSA has since upgraded the CAT-2 units to feature a digital ID reader, updated user interface, and other enhancements including a new podium and space for additional processing power.

TSA first demonstrated this technology in August 2020 at DCA. This updated version of CAT (known as CAT-2) biometrically verifies a passenger’s identity by taking a picture and comparing the passenger’s live image to the photo on their authenticated photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport). To promote social distancing and reduce contact between officers and passengers, we are exploring a self-service version of Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) that enables passengers to scan their own photo IDs for authentication and uses biometrics to verify passenger identity, eliminating a point of contact between officers and passengers. TSA must prioritize the health and safety of our officers and the traveling public. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the commercial aviation sector and on TSA’s aviation security mission. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN) Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT)


Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)Ĭincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)ĭallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
