What Does “SSSS” on Your Boarding Pass Mean?

If you’ve ever found yourself at the airport only to discover that your boarding pass is marked with the ominous “SSSS,” you’re not alone. This designation stands for Secondary Security Screening Selection—a notice that you’ve been chosen for additional security checks before boarding your flight.

Decoding the “SSSS” Code

According to TSA spokesperson R. Carter Langston, the “SSSS” flag appears when travelers are selected for extra screening procedures. The extra checks are part of an unpredictable security strategy designed to protect all passengers, meaning that sometimes the designation appears at random, while at other times it might be triggered by certain travel behaviors or information flags. Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, this extra layer of security can be applied to anyone.

How to Spot the “SSSS” on Your Boarding Pass

Typically, you’ll notice the “SSSS” code printed in the top-left and bottom-right corners of your boarding pass. In some cases, you might even receive a clue before arriving at the airport—if online check-in isn’t available, it might be because you’ve been selected for secondary screening.

Why Am I Getting “SSSS”?

While the TSA doesn’t disclose all the specifics for security reasons, a few factors might increase your chances of receiving an “SSSS” boarding pass:

• Your name (or a similar one) appears on a security list.
• You booked a last-minute flight or purchased a one-way ticket.
• You’ve recently traveled from a country considered high risk by U.S. authorities.

Even frequent flyers like Wendy Thiessen have noted that sometimes the selection is simply random, underscoring that it’s not a reflection on you personally.

What to Expect During Secondary Screening?

If you’re selected, the TSA may ask you to undergo additional measures such as:

• A more detailed inspection of your carry-on items.
• A swab of your hands and belongings for traces of explosive residue.
• In some cases, a pat-down conducted by an officer of the same gender.

Rest assured, while the process might seem intimidating, it’s designed to be as swift and non-intrusive as possible.

Can Pre-Screening Programs Help?

Unfortunately, enrolling in programs like TSA Pre-Check, Global Entry, or Clear won’t shield you from an “SSSS” designation. These extra security measures are applied independently of such programs.

Is SSSS Permanent? And How to Get It Removed?

If you've been flagged with the SSSS (Secondary Security Screening Selection) on your boarding pass, you might be wondering if it's a permanent designation. The short answer? Not necessarily—but getting it removed isn’t always straightforward.

If you believe you've been mistakenly assigned this status, you can dispute it—but only after your trip. The first time it happens, you’ll need to go through the additional security screening process and then take action once you reach your destination.

How to Request Removal of SSSS

To dispute your SSSS status, follow these steps:

1️⃣ Go to the Department of Homeland Security Traveler Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP) website

• On the site, select "Travel Redress Inquiry Program" to begin the process.
• Answer two short questions to confirm your eligibility for redress.

2️⃣ Create or log in to a Login.gov account

• If you haven’t already set up an account with another government agency, you’ll need to create one.
• This account will allow you to check the status of your redress request later.

3️⃣ Submit a Redress Request

• Fill out the dispute form and upload necessary documents, including:
  ✅ A copy of your boarding pass (if available)
  ✅ A government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport or driver’s license)

4️⃣ Wait for a response

• After submitting your documents, you’ll receive a Redress Control Number to track your case.
• The review process can take months, and you may never be informed why you were flagged.
• If successful, your SSSS designation should be removed from future flights.

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Tips for a Smoother Experience

• Plan Ahead: Allow extra time at the airport in case you’re selected for additional screening.
• Pack Smart: Keep your carry-on organized. Neatly compartmentalized items or packing cubes can speed up the inspection process.
• Stay Cooperative: A friendly and cooperative attitude with TSA agents can help the process move along smoothly.

For those who find themselves repeatedly selected and feeling unfairly targeted, the DHS Traveler Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP) offers a way to address concerns for future trips. However, note that this program won’t affect the screening for your current flight.

Next time you fly, keep these tips in mind so that if “SSSS” appears on your boarding pass, you’ll know exactly what to expect and how to navigate the extra security with ease. Enjoy your travels!