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Travel Document Checker (TDC)

Layers of Security

Photo of a TSO checking documents.

In June 2007, another layer of aviation security was created when TSA assumed travel document checking responsibilities from airline contractors. Since then, specially trained Transportation Security Officers (TSOs), using black lights and magnifying loupes, have been positioned in front of the checkpoint to check passengers' boarding passes and identification. Just six months into the program, security officers performing document checking duties have found thousands of suspect, illegible or expired documents, including passports, visas and drivers licenses.

Having these specially trained officers conduct travel document checking significantly increases security. Individuals with fraudulent or suspect documents are now being referred to law enforcement for closer scrutiny and investigation instead of proceeding to the boarding gate. To date, the efforts of security officers have resulted in more than 40 arrests.

In addition to the security benefit, this program is a continuation of TSA's job enrichment effort to expand the skill base of security officers. Officers in the program receive online, classroom and on-the-job training that teaches them how to recognize unique, fraud-prevention features embedded in government-issued identification documents. The training also includes discerning behavioral cues and interview techniques that have proven successful in identifying passengers whose behavior warrants additional screening.

Currently, security officers perform travel document checking at more than 340 airports. The program will be expanded to all airports in spring 2008.

Travel Document Checking Success Stories

Photo of Julia Valentine, a TSO at Phoenix Sky Harbor, checking fraud-prevention features on a government-issued identification
Julia Valentine, a TSO at Phoenix
Sky Harbor, checks fraud-prevention
features on a government-issued
identification.

December 2007

November 2007

October 2007

September 2007

August 2007

July 2007

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