Blog

Today, I am happy to announce the newly optimized DHS.gov website. Over the past year, DHS has worked behind the scenes to update and modernize our flagship website, making it faster and easier to use. Some of the specific differences you’ll see are:

• Compatibility for both desktop computers and mobile devices (phones and tablets)
• Cleaner, easier-to-read site format and presentation
• Faster and more accurate site navigation using our internal search function and external search engines (like Google and Bing)

DHS.gov for Mobile

In 2015, more than 22% of visitors to DHS.gov used either a cell phone or tablet, but the site was only configured to display on desktop computers. DHS.gov now works for desktop computers, tablets and smartphones, making it easier to get the information you need – wherever you are – in the format appropriate for your device.

A New Look

Throughout the course of this effort, we updated more than 9,000 pages to simplify how information is presented to the user. Each page now features easy-to-read type and a clear introduction, so you can quickly determine if you are on the right page. We also built in collapsing sections so that longer pages of content can be quickly skimmed for relevant information.

The new DHS.gov is also fully accessible, reinforcing the Department’s commitment to meet or exceed federal Section 508 compliance standards.

Finally, we introduced new tools like updated slideshows and image carousels, which highlight new information and announcements from the Department.

More Efficient Searches

Finding information on DHS.gov has never been easier.

We updated the site’s technology to make sure pages were cataloged correctly by both our search engine and external search engines, so your searches on DHS.gov will yield more accurate results. We also organized each page and section by DHS mission area, so you can see how each program or activity ties into broader Department goals.  For instance, you can use our optimized search engine to find the DHS Trusted Traveler program that works best for you.

Moving Forward

Updating a website the size of DHS.gov is no small feat.

However, by staying focused on the needs of our customer (you), we hope this new site serves you in a more efficient way. We look forward to more updates in the future as we continue to find new and innovative ways to improve your experience with DHS.gov.

Happy browsing!

This blog was originally posted on the TSA Blog on June 3, 2016.

It’s officially the summer travel season. This year, there is an increased number of travelers and a need for enhanced security.

This infographic shows the steps we’re taking to improve your experience at the checkpoint, while still ensuring your safety. Take a look, then share it on your social media networks with your fellow travelers.

Download the full infographic image (385KB JPG)

Share on Facebook   |   Share on Twitter

To find out more about how TSA is working to secure our nation’s transportation systems, check out #TSATravelSafe on social media.

Taking leave this summer?  Even when traveling for personal time, members of the military and DoD civilians qualify for TSA Pre✓® –without any extra effort. 

Lately, longer than usual lines at the airport have been in the news as the nation prepares for the busiest summer travel season on record.  To reduce the amount of time waiting in lines, while making sure passengers are safe, TSA is encouraging eligible travelers to sign up for TSA Pre✓®.  All members of the U.S. Armed Forces, including cadets and midshipmen at the U.S. service academies, and those serving in the Reserves and National Guard, can receive TSA Pre✓® benefits just by using their Department of Defense identification number. 

For military members, your DOD identification number works as your known traveler number, or KTN, for all of your travel, both personal and official.  Enter the 10 digit number, located on the back of your common access card (CAC), into the KTN field when you make flight reservations to receive TSA Pre✓® benefits. You should update your Defense Travel System profile with KTN as well for official travel.  If the number is not on your CAC, you can get the number on milConnect.

DOD civilians are also eligible to receive TSA Pre✓® benefits. They can opt-in through their profile page on the milConnect site. Once they opt-in, DoD civilians will receive a KTN that they can then input in their travel bookings to receive TSA Pre✓® benefits.

When you make a reservation and include your KTN, a TSA Pre✓® indicator will appear on your boarding pass, letting you know that you can go to the TSA Pre✓® screening line. You cannot go straight to the TSA Pre✓® line with your CAC; you must enter the number when you book your travel.

Additionally, you do not have to be in uniform to go through TSA Pre✓® using your DOD identification number.

That means you can leave your shoes, belt, and light jacket on through the screening process, and leave your laptop and liquids in your bag.  It helps you get through the line more efficiently, so your screening process is more predictable and less stressful. 

For more information, check out TSA.gov. 

From TSA.gov

Do you have TSA Pre✓^®? The expedited screening program is one way that you can shorten your wait at the security checkpoint this summer. 

But TSA Pre✓^® only works if you do! Make sure that you’re getting the benefits. Check it out:

Share on Facebook   |   Share on Twitter

This shows a step-by-step guide on how to shorten your wait using TSA Pre✓®. Watch, and then share it on your social media networks with your fellow travelers.

Don’t have TSA Pre✓^®?

Apply today!

For TSA Pre✓^® travelers, there is no need to remove shoes, 3-1-1 liquids, laptops, light outerwear or belts. 16 carriers participate in TSA Pre✓^®.