Pocket Knife
Pocket knives of any kind are not allowed in carry-on and must be packed in checked baggage.
Carry-on
Not allowed
Checked
Allowed
Carry-on details
Not allowed. Pocket knives, folding knives, and multi-tools with a blade are prohibited in carry-on, regardless of blade length.
Checked-bag details
Allowed. Pocket knives can be packed in checked baggage without restriction.
Special instructions
This applies even to very small or dull-bladed pocket knives — TSA does not have a length exception for carry-on the way it does for scissors.
Related rules
FAQ
- Is there a blade-length exception for small pocket knives in carry-on?
- No. Unlike scissors, pocket knives of any blade length are prohibited in carry-on bags and must go in checked baggage.
Related items
Source: TSA — What Can I Bring? · Last verified: 2026-07-29
Final decision rests with the security officer at the checkpoint.