TSA PreCheck makes air travel easier for many passengers. It lets people go through security faster at U.S. airports. Travelers don’t need to take off shoes, belts, or light jackets. They can also keep laptops and liquids in their bags.
TSA PreCheck costs $78 for 5 years and is open to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. People who want to join must apply online and go to an in-person meeting. The meeting includes a background check and fingerprinting.
Pre-check users get a special line at airport security. This line is often shorter and moves more quickly than regular lines. Many travelers find the program saves them time and stress at the airport.
What Is TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck is a program that speeds up airport security screening for eligible travelers. It allows members to go through shorter lines and keep more items in their bags.
Program Overview
TSA PreCheck lets flyers use special security lanes at U.S. airports. These lanes move faster than regular lines. Members don’t need to remove shoes, belts, or light jackets. They can also leave laptops and liquids in their bags.
The program started in 2011. It now works at over 200 airports with 80+ airlines. PreCheck aims to make air travel easier and quicker for low-risk passengers.
Members get a “Known Traveler Number” to use when booking flights. This number tells airlines the person is part of PreCheck.
Eligibility Criteria
U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can apply for TSA PreCheck. Applicants must pass a background check and in-person interview.
Key requirements include:
- No serious criminal offenses
- Providing fingerprints
- Paying an $85 fee for 5 years of membership
Some groups have a higher chance of approval:
- Active duty military
- Members of trusted traveler programs like Global Entry
- Certain frequent flyer program members
The TSA reviews each case individually. They look at a person’s travel history and other factors.
Benefits of TSA PreCheck
TSA PreCheck offers several perks for travelers. It speeds up airport security and is available at many airports across the U.S.
Expedited Screening Process
TSA PreCheck members go through a faster security line. They don’t need to remove shoes, belts, or light jackets. Laptops and liquids can stay in bags. This saves time and reduces stress.
The process is simpler. Travelers walk through a metal detector instead of a body scanner. They face fewer pat-downs and random checks.
PreCheck lanes are often shorter. This means less time waiting in line. Members can arrive at the airport closer to their flight time.
Airline Participation
Most major U.S. airlines take part in TSA PreCheck. This includes American, Delta, United, and Southwest. Many smaller airlines join too.
Members can use PreCheck when flying these airlines within the U.S. Some international flights also qualify.
To use PreCheck, add your Known Traveler Number when booking. Or add it to your frequent flyer profile.
Not all flights are eligible. Check your boarding pass for the PreCheck logo.
Airports with TSA PreCheck
Over 200 airports in the U.S. have TSA PreCheck lanes. This covers most major cities and many smaller ones.
Big hubs like JFK, LAX, and O’Hare offer PreCheck at multiple terminals. Smaller airports might have one PreCheck lane.
Some airports have PreCheck open all day. Others only during peak hours. Check the TSA website for details on specific airports.
PreCheck is expanding to more locations. The TSA adds new airports regularly.
How to Apply for TSA PreCheck
Getting TSA PreCheck involves submitting an application, providing documents, and paying a fee. The process is straightforward and can be done online or in person.
Application Process
To apply for TSA PreCheck, start by filling out an online application at the TSA website. The form asks for basic personal info like name, address, and date of birth. You’ll also need to answer questions about your criminal history and citizenship status.
After submitting the online form, schedule an in-person appointment at an enrollment center. These centers are located at many airports and other sites across the U.S. During your visit, you’ll complete the application process and undergo a background check.
The appointment usually takes about 10 minutes. You’ll have your fingerprints taken and show your ID documents. Most people get approved within 3-5 days after their appointment.
Required Documents
Bring proper ID to your enrollment appointment. Acceptable forms include:
- U.S. passport
- Driver’s license
- Permanent resident card
- Birth certificate
You must show proof of citizenship or immigration status. For U.S. citizens, a passport or birth certificate works. Non-citizens need to bring their permanent resident card or other valid immigration documents.
Make sure all your documents are current and not expired. Bringing extra forms of ID can be helpful in case there are any issues.
Fees and Payment
The TSA PreCheck application fee is $85. This covers a 5-year membership in the program. You can pay by credit card, debit card, money order, company check, or certified/cashier’s check.
Payment is due at your in-person appointment. The enrollment center will not accept cash or personal checks.
If your application is denied, the fee is not refundable. But once approved, you can use TSA PreCheck at all participating U.S. airports for 5 years before needing to renew.
Some credit cards and loyalty programs offer to cover the TSA PreCheck fee as a perk. Check with your card issuer to see if this benefit is available to you.
Using TSA PreCheck
TSA PreCheck offers a faster and more convenient airport security screening process. Travelers can keep their shoes on and electronics in their bags.
At the Airport
Look for special TSA PreCheck lanes at the security checkpoint. Show your boarding pass and ID to the TSA officer. You don’t need to remove shoes, belts, or light jackets. Laptops and liquids can stay in your carry-on bag.
The screening process is quicker. You walk through a metal detector instead of a body scanner. Random checks may still happen, but they’re less common.
Some airports have TSA PreCheck lanes open only at certain times. Check the airport’s website or ask an airport employee if unsure about availability.
Traveling Internationally
TSA PreCheck works for domestic flights and some international trips. Many foreign airlines now take part in the program. When flying abroad, check if your airline is a TSA PreCheck partner.
For international travel, you might need to go through extra screening. This depends on your destination and current security rules. Some countries have their own trusted traveler programs that work with TSA PreCheck.
Global Entry members get TSA PreCheck benefits too. This can make coming back to the U.S. easier after a trip abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
TSA PreCheck offers expedited airport security screening for eligible travelers. Here are answers to common questions about the program.
How can one apply for TSA PreCheck?
Travelers can apply for TSA PreCheck online or in person. The online application takes about 5 minutes to complete. After applying, schedule an in-person appointment at an enrollment center.
What are the eligibility requirements for TSA PreCheck?
U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and lawful permanent residents can apply for TSA PreCheck. Applicants must not have been convicted of certain crimes. They also need to pass a background check.
Where can I find TSA PreCheck enrollment locations?
TSA PreCheck has over 500 enrollment centers across the United States. Many are located in airports. Others can be found in off-airport locations like office buildings. The TSA website has a search tool to find nearby enrollment centers.
What is the cost to enroll in TSA PreCheck?
The fee for TSA PreCheck is $78 for a 5-year membership. Some credit cards and loyalty programs offer to cover this cost as a benefit. Members can renew online for $70 when their membership is about to expire.
What benefits does TSA PreCheck membership provide to travelers?
TSA PreCheck members can use dedicated security lanes at over 200 airports. They don’t need to remove shoes, belts, or light jackets. Laptops and liquids can stay in bags. This often leads to shorter wait times and less hassle at security checkpoints.
How can I check the status of my TSA PreCheck application?
Applicants can check their status online using the TSA website. Most people receive approval within 3-5 days. The TSA also sends notification by mail. Once approved, travelers get a Known Traveler Number to use when booking flights.
