I just tried the TSA's new e-gates: Here's what it was like

I just tried the TSA's new e-gates: Here's what it was likeThe cards we feature here are from partners who compensate us when you are approved through our site, and this may impact how or where these products appear. We don’t cover all available credit cards, but our analysis, reviews, and opinions are entirely from our editorial team. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information.Are you curious about what the future of airport security might look like? A visit to one of the busiest airports on the East Coast offers a sneak peek at one possibility.Earlier this summer, the Transportation Security Administration began trialing new "e-gates" at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT).And this week, I had the chance to try out the automated process for the first time.The new TSA process is the first of its kind at a U.S. security checkpoint.Instead of human officers checking your ID, it's all self-service: You scan it yourself, and the machine takes your photo. Then, the electronic gates open up to let you through.If all goes well here, it's possible this could be a model for other airports in the future.How do the TSA's new e-gates work?The TSA's e-gates are available across eight lanes at CLT's Security Checkpoint 2.SEAN CUDAHY/THE POINTS GUYTo use the higher-tech lanes, you have to be a TSA PreCheck member. Beyond that, you don't have to register for special access or go to a special line.What is it like going through TSA e-gates?As I approached the security area, I thought the setup looked very similar to security concepts you'll find at some major airports in Europe.Reward your inbox with the TPG Daily newsletterJoin over 700,000 readers for breaking news, in-depth guides and exclusive deals from TPG’s expertsBy signing up, you will receive newsletters and promotional content and agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the data practices in our Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe at any time.To use the TSA e-gates, you'll get in line like you normally would. But once you reach the front of the line, you won't see an officer waiting to check your ID.Instead, you'll find automated booths equipped with clear gates.SEAN CUDAHY/THE POINTS GUYDepending on what type of ID you have, you can choose one of three ways to let the machine check your ID:If you have a Real ID-compliant driver's license, there's an ATM-style slot to insert your ID.If you have a passport, you can scan it on the designated spot.If you're set up with a mobile ID, there's a place to tap it.Then, you'll pause as a mounted camera takes your photo — just like it would at any other checkpoint. (But, again, there's no officer sitting there.)SEAN CUDAHY/THE POINTS GUYThe TSA's software compares the photo it takes to the one on your ID. Assuming everything checks out, the screen will give you the all-clear to proceed, and the gates will open.I tested this process a half dozen times, and it never took me more than a few seconds.From there, the rest of the security screening is the same as every other TSA checkpoint: You place your carry-on items on the conveyor belt and then proceed to the scanner.Is TSA PreCheck Touchless ID available at the e-gates?Yes. The TSA has some e-gates equipped for its fast new program that allows passengers to pass through security without pulling out a driver's license and passport.If you're using Touchless ID at the e-gates, the setup is basically the same. However, instead of inserting your license or tapping your passport, you'll just look at the camera — and then the gates should open right away.SEAN CUDAHY/THE POINTS GUYAre the TSA's e-gates faster?Maybe a little.The TSA notes that this new process is about three seconds quicker, on average, and that time adds up fast when multiplied across thousands of passengers per day.But speed isn't the only goal here.The agency believes these e-gates could free up more officers to assist with other security duties, such as helping less frequent flyers navigate the standard TSA lanes.SEAN CUDAHY/THE POINTS GUYWhat I thought of the TSA's new e-gatesI found the TSA's new e-gates in Charlotte seamless and easy to use.It seemed like other passengers had similar luck; I didn't see many major glitches or hang-ups. (Sometimes, when airports use automated gates like this, passengers can get "stuck," holding up the line when a problem pops up.)The TSA had officers stationed near the e-gates to assist flyers with the process.Main takeawaysFor the most part, this whole security experience is pretty familiar to anyone who regularly goes through TSA checkpoints.The key difference: Instead of an officer sitting in front of you checking your ID, TSA's computer systems handle the work.The agency is calling this CLT e-gates setup an "operational assessment" to see how smoothly the lanes work.TSA has also conducted testing on these high-tech lanes at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). It's likely you'll see the agency test this process at other airports in the not-so-distant future.Bottom lineThis new e-gates trial comes at a time of big changes for TSA. Last week, TPG reported that three airports had become the first to sign on to the new "TSA Gold Plus" program, a partnership that will bring private screening companies to more airports.Meanwhile, the agency recently finished rolling out the fast-tracked TSA PreCheck Touchless ID program to more than 60 major airports. Plus, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is in the process of introducing time-saving "one-stop security" programs at some U.S. hubs, intended to reduce wait times for passengers after international flights.Related reading:When is the best time to book flights for the cheapest airfare?The best airline credit cardsWhich US airline is best? TPG's 2026 rankingsFlight delayed or canceled? Here's what to doThe best credit cards to reach elite statusWhat are points and miles worth? TPG's monthly valuationsWas the 'fast, free' Wi-Fi really slow on your flight, too? Here's what's going onFeatured image by SEAN CUDAHY/THE POINTS GUYEditorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.FAQRight now, the e-gates are being trialed at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT). They’ve also been tried at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). It’s possible the technology will expand to additional airports in the future. No. You are allowed to opt out of having your photo taken by the TSA at security checkpoints.The agency says it deletes photos used for facial comparison within 24 hours of your flight’s departure).