What Is TSA Precheck?

If you’ve ever been in a long security line at an airport and wished there was a faster way to get to your flight, it’s time for you to consider TSA PreCheck. With constantly changing security regulations, TSA PreCheck serves as an expedited security screening program connecting travelers departing the United States with smarter security and a better air travel experience, according to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Expedited security screenings can serve as an unofficial time insurance policy if you’re running late for a flight, saving you valuable time in busy airport security checkpoints.

WHAT IS TSA PRECHECK?

TSA PreCheck is an expedited security program for travelers departing or traveling within the United States. Eligible low-risk travelers experience expedited security screenings and don’t have to remove their shoes, liquids, gels, laptops, jackets, or belts during the screening process at airports. The program is eligible to US citizens or Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR) that haven’t been convicted of certain crimes. Currently, the price of a TSA PreCheck new enrollment or in-person renewal remains $78 and online renewals are $70. Enrollment in TSA PreCheck lasts for five years.

HOW DO I ENROLL IN TSA PRECHECK?

Enrollment in TSA PreCheck is very easy. It takes under five minutes to submit an online application for the program and schedule an in-person appointment in your community that includes a background check and fingerprinting at an enrollment center. Before applying, make sure you review the various Department of Homeland Security trusted traveler programs to ensure that TSA PreCheck is the right option for you.

HOW WILL I KNOW WHEN I’VE RECEIVED TSA PRECHECK?

According to the TSA, most applicants receive their Known Traveler Number (KTN) within three to five business days. However, some applications may take up to 60 days. Applicants can check their status at any time online.

If approved, participating airlines display a TSA PreCheck indicator directly on your paper or digital boarding pass if you are eligible for TSA PreCheck. You will need to provide or validate your KTN to your airline when making a reservation. The name submitted on your airline reservation must match the name you provided on your application. If you use a frequent flyer account or an online travel profile, ensure that your name is saved correctly to avoid any issues.

DO CHILDREN NEED TO APPLY FOR TSA PRECHECK?

Family members ages 12 and under traveling with an eligible parent or guardian with a TSA PreCheck indicator on their boarding pass can join them in the TSA PreCheck lanes without applying for the program.  

IS TSA PRECHECK WORTH THE MONEY?

Because general boarding security lines at airports are a bit of a wildcard, TSA PreCheck helps you clear the security checkpoint at a much faster pace. Additionally, TSA PreCheck users have the convenience of keeping their shoes, belts, and jackets on while keeping everything in their bags as they move through the security checkpoint. At a low cost of $70-$78 for five years of the program, the time travelers save by not standing in line adds up quickly, making it well worth the investment. In addition, for any instances where travelers may be running late to the airport, expedited security screening can increase your chances of making it to your flight on time.