Pliers
Pliers 7 inches or shorter are allowed in carry-on; longer pliers must be packed in checked baggage.
Carry-on
Allowed with conditions
Checked
Allowed
Carry-on details
Allowed with conditions. Pliers measuring 7 inches (18 cm) or shorter, end to end when fully assembled, are allowed in carry-on bags. Pliers longer than that must be packed in checked baggage. Very sharp-tipped needle-nose pliers or wire cutters may still be denied at a TSA officer's discretion even under 7 inches.
Checked-bag details
Allowed. Pliers of any length and type can be packed in checked baggage without restriction.
Quantity limit
7 count (per item)
Special instructions
Measure your pliers fully assembled and closed, not just the jaw. Pack them in a tool pouch so an officer can quickly see and re-screen them if needed.
FAQ
- How is the 7-inch limit for pliers measured?
- End to end, with the pliers fully assembled and closed. Anything longer than 7 inches (18 cm) must go in checked baggage.
- Can needle-nose pliers be denied even under 7 inches?
- Yes — if the tips look especially sharp or pointed, a TSA officer can still deny them at the checkpoint, even within the length limit.
Related items
Source: TSA — What Can I Bring? · Last verified: 2026-07-30
Final decision rests with the security officer at the checkpoint.