If you’re a DIY fan, engineer, or just someone who likes to travel prepared, you might be wondering: Can I take a screwdriver on a plane? The answer depends on where you’re flying.
Here’s a breakdown of the rules in the U.S., Canada, the EU, UK, Australia, China, and Japan so you know what to expect before you pack.
Quick Reference: Screwdriver Rules by Country/Region
Country/Region | Carry-On Luggage | Checked Bag Luggage |
|---|---|---|
United States | Over 7 in (18 cm) not allowed | Allowed |
Canada | Shaft over 6 cm not allowed | Allowed |
European Union | Shaft over 6 cm typically not allowed | Allowed |
United Kingdom | Not allowed | Allowed |
Australia | Not allowed | Allowed |
China | Not allowed | Allowed |
Japan | Total length over 15 cm or shaft over 6 cm not allowed | Allowed |
United States
In the U.S., the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows passengers to pack screwdrivers shorter than 7 inches in carry-on bags. This means that many small household or precision screwdrivers are fine to bring in your cabin luggage. However, if your tool is longer than 7 inches (including the handle), it must be packed in your checked bag.
Canada
The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) dictates rules based on shaft length rather than overall tool size. If your screwdriver’s shaft is more than 6 cm (about 2.36 inches), it’s banned from carry-on luggage. Smaller tools can travel with you in the cabin, but anything longer will need to be checked in.
European Union
Across the EU, security agencies generally prohibit screwdrivers with shafts longer than 6 cm as they could be used as weapons.
Note: Rules can vary slightly between member states, so it’s best to confirm with your departure airport’s security guidelines.
United Kingdom
The UK is strict: all screwdrivers, regardless of size, are banned from hand luggage. This includes small precision tools and multi-tool screwdrivers. If you’re flying out of the UK, plan to put your screwdriver in your checked bag.
Australia
Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) takes a similar approach to the UK—no screwdrivers in hand luggage. Whether it’s a tiny eyeglass screwdriver or a full-sized tool, it has to go in checked baggage.
China
The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) bans all screwdrivers in carry-on bags. You can pack the screwdrivers in checked luggage, but they can’t get through security checkpoints.
Japan
In Japan, screwdrivers are allowed in carry-on bags only if the total length is 15 cm or less and the shaft is 6 cm or less. Anything larger must go in checked luggage.
Disclaimer: Aviation security regulations can change at any time and may vary between airports. The information above is based on publicly available guidance from each country’s aviation security agency at the time of writing. Always verify the latest rules with the relevant authority before traveling.
Final Thoughts
By understanding the regulations for your departure and arrival countries, you can avoid losing your tools at security and keep your travel plans running smoothly. When in doubt, pack your screwdriver in checked baggage — it’s the easiest way to comply with all international rules and ensure your tools make it to your destination with you.