Travel continues to be booming this summer as many people continue to take long-awaited vacations. In fact, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reports that the top 10 busiest travel days at airports in the agency’s history all occurred after May 2024, with more than 3 million people passing through TSA checkpoints on July 7. The upcoming holidays are also expected to be full of travel, according to the TSA.
If you’re thinking about signing up for TSA PreCheck to streamline your airport security process, here’s your guide on how it works, the interview process, and more, as well as some tips for getting started with membership for the first time.
What is TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) designed to expedite airport security screening. The program is administered by the TSA and allows passengers to use special security lines at participating U.S. airports. TSA PreCheck membership starts at $77.95 and is valid for five years.
TSA PreCheck is available at more than 200 airports and on more than 90 airlines across the U.S. When you arrive at the security line after checking in, an agent will verify your membership status on your boarding pass and then direct you to the PreCheck line.
The membership allows you to keep your light jacket, shoes, belt and any liquids or electronic devices (such as a laptop) in your luggage, then you can simply go through the security scanner and on your way to your gate.
How to get TSA Precheck for free
Many travel credit cards offer statement credits that cover the cost of TSA PreCheck or Global Entry membership, so if you have a qualifying credit card, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, you could be reimbursed up to $100 for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry fees.
To receive your credit, simply pay the fee with an eligible credit card, and once your payment has been processed, you’ll receive a refund from the issuing bank.
To participate in TSA PreCheck
To become a member of the TSA PreCheck program, you must meet the requirements: There is no age limit for applicants, but you must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or lawful permanent resident.
If you meet the requirements, you can apply with an enrollment provider such as Clear, Idemia, or Telos. You will then need to make an appointment at an enrollment center. If you are approved, you will be issued a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that you can use whenever you book a flight. It may take up to 60 days to receive your KTN, but most applicants receive their KTN within 3-5 days.
Details of the application and interview process are as follows:
Complete the online application
You can apply for TSA PreCheck on the TSA website under “New TSA PreCheck Enrollment Options.” When completing the application, it is very important that you enter your name exactly as it appears on your government-issued identification. Information required includes:
- full name
- date of birth
- sex
- Preferred Language
- Preferred method of contact (email or phone)
Once your application is complete, you can schedule an appointment at one of the listed enrollment centers.
Complete an in-person interview at the Admissions Center
TSA PreCheck allows walk-ins for interviews, but priority is given to applicants with scheduled appointments. You must present an accepted form of identification at the time of your appointment. If you do not have a valid List A document, such as a valid U.S. passport, you must present a valid photo ID accompanied by documentation that meets citizenship requirements (such as a U.S. birth certificate).
You will also be fingerprinted and your membership fee will be paid. Membership fees are non-refundable and can be paid by credit card, debit card, money order, company check, or certified check/banker’s check. If you use a credit card statement credit, payment must be made with that card.
During your interview, you will be asked to verify the information provided in your application and may be asked questions about your work history and travel habits. Be prepared to provide further details about any criminal convictions you may have. The interview should take approximately 10 minutes, but may take longer depending on how busy the centre is.
Tips for using TSA PreCheck
Once you have your TSA PreCheck membership, here are some tips to help you get the most out of it.
First time using TSA PreCheck
Before you use TSA PreCheck for the first time, check these actions off your to-do list:
- Be sure to use your KTN when booking your flight so TSA PreCheck will appear on your boarding pass.
- Add your KTN to your frequent flyer profile.
- Make sure you check in online at least 24 hours before your flight and have PreCheck status. If you don’t, contact your airline.
- Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight to ensure your PreCheck status is confirmed (if you can’t do this online or by phone).
- Make sure you travel through airports that offer TSA PreCheck service.
Using TSA PreCheck for Families
TSA PreCheck membership doesn’t automatically pass to family members, but there are exceptions for children. Follow these tips to help your children use TSA PreCheck successfully:
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by a registered parent or guardian. Children 12 and under may be accompanied by a registered parent or guardian without restrictions.
- If your child is 12 or older, make sure they have the TSA PreCheck logo on their boarding pass. Children ages 13-17 traveling with a registered parent must have the TSA PreCheck logo on their boarding pass, but they do not need to be enrolled in TSA PreCheck themselves. Children’s boarding passes will include the logo if they are traveling with the same airline as their registered parent.
Update your TSA PreCheck information
Your TSA PreCheck membership is valid for five years. If your personal information changes during that time, you must update it through your provider as soon as possible. There are two ways to update:
- Call your registration provider. The most direct way is to call Clear at 1-888-831-9070 or Idemia at 855-347-8371, Monday through Friday, 8am to 10pm EST. You can also call Telos at 833-777-1811, Monday through Friday, 8am to 11pm EST.
- Contact your provider online. Do not provide any personal information through the provider’s contact form, as this option may take some time as you will have to wait for a response.
Conclusion
If you’re traveling domestically, TSA PreCheck is a real convenience. Joining this Trusted Traveler program can help you speed through security lines. There is a membership fee to join, but some travel and airline-branded credit cards offer a statement credit that covers the application fee.
There are other government-sponsored Trusted Traveler programs available, each offering different benefits. If you want to quickly re-enter the U.S. after traveling abroad, Global Entry is a program to consider. This program also includes TSA PreCheck membership.
