The last time you booked a flight a flight online, you may have noticed a field for entering a KTN (Known Traveler Number). While this number isn't required, having a KTN offers some benefits. If you're flying more than once a year, having a KTN could make your time in airport security faster and easier.
What is a Known Traveler Number?
A KTN is a 9-digit, unique number that identifies a traveler who is eligible to receive expedited screening through airport security. Those who pay for and are approved for TSA PreCheck receive a KTN. Those who pay for and are approved for Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI, receive a PASSID, which is essentially the same as a KTN.
If you have a KTN, it's important to add it when booking airline travel to ensure the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on your boarding pass. If the TSA PreCheck indicator is not on your boarding pass, you'll have to go through standard security, even if you've been approved for TSA PreCheck.
What are the benefits of having a Known Traveler Number?
TSA PreCheck offers travelers a faster and more convenient experience in U.S airports. Program participants can access special security lanes that are typically shorter than general security lines.
According to TSA, in March 2023, 89% of TSA PreCheck passengers waited in line for less than five minutes. That means travelers could potentially save hours each year.
When using TSA PreCheck lanes, you're not required to remove your shoes, belts, and light jackets while moving through the screening process. You also don't need to remove laptops or liquids from your bags before they are scanned.
How to get a Known Traveler Number?
Enrolling in TSA PreCheck and receiving a KTN requires paying a $78 application fee and completing an in-person interview at an enrollment center. You'll be digitally fingerprinted during the interview to lessen the time needed for the required background check. Once approved for the program, your membership is good for five years before renewal is required.
Alternatively, international travelers can apply for Global Entry. This trusted traveler program grants expedited entry into the U.S. from international destinations. In addition, program participants automatically receive access to TSA PreCheck during domestic travel. The application fee for Global Entry is $120 and membership is valid for five years.
Check the benefits associated with your credit cards, as many credit card companies will reimburse cardholders for the application fee.
How to get a Known Traveler Number?
A Known Traveler Number (KTN) is issued through trusted traveler programs run by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Travelers who are approved for one of these programs receive a membership number that can be entered when booking flights.
Here are the main programs that issue a KTN:
TSA PreCheck®
TSA PreCheck is designed to speed up airport security screening for low-risk travelers departing from participating U.S. airports. Approved members typically receive a 9-digit KTN that begins with “TT.”
With TSA PreCheck, travelers can often use dedicated security lanes and usually don’t need to remove shoes, belts, light jackets, laptops or compliant liquids during screening.
Global Entry
Global Entry helps expedite customs screening for travelers returning to the United States from international destinations. Members receive a PASSID number, which also serves as their Known Traveler Number.
One of the biggest advantages of Global Entry is that it includes TSA PreCheck benefits, making it a popular option for frequent international travelers.
NEXUS
NEXUS is a joint program operated by the United States and Canada that helps speed up border crossings between the two countries. Members can use their PASSID as their Known Traveler Number when booking flights.
NEXUS members may also receive TSA PreCheck benefits when flying from participating U.S. airports.
SENTRI
SENTRI is designed to expedite travel for pre-approved travelers entering the United States from Mexico through designated land border crossings. Like Global Entry and NEXUS, SENTRI members receive a PASSID that can function as a Known Traveler Number.
SENTRI members may also be eligible for TSA PreCheck benefits when flying with participating airlines.
Quick tip: Redress numbers are different
A Known Traveler Number is not the same as a redress number. Redress numbers are issued through the DHS Traveler Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP) to help travelers who have experienced repeated screening delays or identification issues.
If you’ve been approved for TSA PreCheck or another trusted traveler program, make sure you enter your Known Traveler Number exactly as it appears in your account profile when booking flights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Known Traveler Number (KTN), and how does it work?
A KTN is a nine-digit ID issued to travelers approved for TSA PreCheck expedited screening. Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI members receive a PASSID that works the same way. Add the number to your airline reservation or frequent-flyer profile so the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on your boarding pass.
Do you need a KTN to fly?
No, you do not need a KTN to fly. However, travelers who fly regularly may find TSA PreCheck worthwhile because it offers shorter security lines and less restrictive screening.
How do you get a KTN?
You can apply for TSA PreCheck online, pay the application fee, and complete an in-person appointment with fingerprinting. You can also apply for Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck benefits and provides a PASSID that works like a KTN.
What is the difference between a KTN and a PASSID?
A KTN is issued through TSA PreCheck, while a PASSID is issued through Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI programs. Both numbers can be used to access TSA PreCheck screening benefits.
How much does TSA PreCheck or Global Entry cost?
At press time, TSA PreCheck costs $78 and Global Entry costs $120. Many travel credit cards reimburse application fees, so check your card benefits before applying.
Where do you enter your KTN when booking a flight?
Enter your KTN in your airline passenger profile or during the booking process. You can also provide it during check-in or at the airline counter.
Why doesn’t TSA PreCheck appear on your boarding pass?
If the TSA PreCheck indicator does not appear on your boarding pass, you will go through standard security screening. Double-check that your KTN is correctly added to both your reservation and airline profile.
What benefits does a KTN include?
A KTN gives you access to TSA PreCheck lanes, which typically offer shorter wait times and simplified screening procedures. Global Entry members also receive expedited customs processing when returning to the US from international trips.
Is Global Entry better than TSA PreCheck?
Global Entry is often the better value for international travelers because it includes TSA PreCheck and expedited customs processing. TSA PreCheck alone may be enough for travelers who mainly fly domestically.
Do children need their own TSA PreCheck membership?
Children 12 and under can accompany an eligible parent or guardian through TSA PreCheck lanes without their own membership. Travelers ages 13 to 17 can use the lane only if the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on their boarding pass.
How long does TSA PreCheck or Global Entry approval last?
Both TSA PreCheck and Global Entry memberships are generally valid for five years. Renewal requirements and fees can vary, so check TSA or CBP for current renewal information.