TSA allows hand tools 7 inches or shorter, such as small screwdrivers, wrenches and pliers, in a carry-on. Longer tools, hammers, drills, saws and power tools go in a checked bag.
By its everyday name, such as screwdrivers 7 inches or shorter or wrenches and pliers.
TSA’s answer
Type an item, or pick one: screwdrivers 7 inches or shorter, wrenches and pliers, hammers, power tools.
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How to measure 7 inches
TSA measures the tool from end to end, put together as you’d use it. A screwdriver with a bit in it counts with the bit.
Each tool on TSA’s list
| Item | Carry-on | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Tools | Yes, with conditions | Yes, with conditions |
| Screwdrivers 7 inches or shorter | Yes | Yes |
| Screwdrivers longer than 7 inches | No | Yes |
| Wrenches and pliers | Yes, with conditions | Yes |
| Tape measures | Yes | Yes |
| Hammers | No | Yes |
| Mallets | No | Yes |
| Crowbars | No | Yes |
| Drills and drill bits | No | Yes |
| Saws | No | Yes |
| Power tools | No | Yes, with conditions |
| Nail guns | No | Yes |
| Box cutters | No | Yes |
| Utility knives | No | Yes |
| Duct tape | Yes | Yes |
| Extension cords | Yes | Yes |
Power tools and their batteries
TSA puts power tools in checked bags, drills and bits included, with any battery still in the tool protected from switching on. Spare lithium batteries, out of the tool, go in your carry-on. The FAA’s chart says to take the battery out and carry it on when you check the tool, and allows a tool checked with its battery in only when it’s fully powered off and protected, such as in the maker’s hard case.
Box cutters and utility knives
Both go in a checked bag, with or without their blades.
Flying from the UK
The UK is stricter (gov.uk, October 2026): screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, hammers, drills, saws and Stanley knives go in the hold whatever their size, as does any tool with a blade or shaft longer than 6 cm.