TSA PreCheck is a U.S. government program that allows travelers deemed low-risk to pass through an expedited security screening process at more than 200 U.S. airports.
TSA PreCheck benefits for air travelers include faster access to airline boarding gates and an absence of the usual requirements to scan your laptop and jacket. You can even keep your shoes on through security.
About 99% of TSA PreCheck passengers waited less than ten minutes to pass through security as of early 2024.1 More than 18 million travelers have enrolled in the PreCheck program. The application process includes applying through the TSA website and attending a brief in-person meeting.
TSA PreCheck travelers often have dedicated lines at the security checkpoint. They don’t have to remove belts, shoes, or lightweight jackets for separate screening. Their carry-on items are not separately screened either. They can leave a laptop in its case and the carry-on bag can include a quart-sized bag with travel-size containers of liquids and gels.
The TSA PreCheck program began in Dec. 2013 to speed pre-screened travelers through security checkpoints, which get backed up during busy times. The usual process includes a requirement that passengers remove their shoes, heavy jackets, and some electronics and pile them into trays for separate screening. Further delays can be caused by passengers being pulled aside for additional scrutiny if the screening reveals banned items.
These measures aren't pointless. A would-be terrorist smuggled explosives in his sneakers on a Paris-to-Miami flight in 2001. Dangerous or illegal items can be hidden inside laptops that have had their components removed. Bulky jackets can hide weapons.
The TSA PreCheck program identifies passengers who are at very low risk of trying any of these strategies and speeds them through the security checkpoints.
The TSA PreCheck program benefits anyone who travels frequently for business or leisure reasons. Anyone forced to fly at peak times like holiday weekends will appreciate the break as well.
TSA PreCheck benefits include:
In short, you'll spend less time standing in line and more time lounging in the airport cafe.
Some 200 airports and 79 airlines accommodate TSA PreCheck travelers.2 You can begin the application process online via the TSA's website.
However, you have to complete the application process in person at a TSA-authorized enrollment location. You will be fingerprinted and asked for a valid proof of identity and U.S. citizenship documents. Travelers who are foreign citizens must be able to provide certain residency documents to qualify.
The online application takes less than five minutes, on average, and the in-person appointment takes about 10 minutes.1
Once approved for TSA PreCheck status, you will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN). Use that number any time you book a flight, and you will automatically have your TSA Pre status applied to your boarding pass. It looks like this: TSA Pre✓.
Then you can start using those fast lanes reserved for TSA PreCheck passengers.
Some credit card issuers provide access to TSA PreCheck as a membership benefit. Some offer periodic statement credits for TSA PreCheck, while others allow their members to pay for the program with loyalty points. According to the TSA, these cards include:4
TSA PreCheck only applies to air travel. The Department of Homeland Security operates other federal programs such as Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI that verify the identities of trusted travelers and speed them through security.
For U.S. citizens, membership in these programs membership includes TSA PreCheck status.
There are also private programs that can speed up your trip. One of them is Clear, a security technology program that uses biometric data to help identify passengers. Clear is already used in about 50 airports, as well as other locations such as stadiums.
The TSA PreCheck Application Program is only open to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and lawful permanent residents. Applicants may be ineligible due to incomplete or false application information, violations of transportation security regulations, or disqualifying criminal offenses.6
Applicants must fill out an online application and schedule an in-person interview at a regional TSA-approved office for screening. A non-refundable processing fee is required.
TSA PreCheck benefits for travelers include fast passage through security at airports and fewer annoyances. PreCheck travelers do not have to pile their laptops, shoes, or overcoats in bins for separate screening. The usual restrictions on liquids and gels apply, but these can stay in the traveler's carry-on.
First, submit a short online application via the TSA's PreCheck website, then schedule an in-person interview at an enrollment center. Enrollment centers are located by zip code or address search.
Yes, children 12 and under can join a parent or legal guardian with TSA PreCheck in the dedicated lanes if they're traveling together, even if they do not have their own known traveler number.6
Critics have argued that the vetting process is flawed and that those with bad intent can falsify statements made during in-person interviews.7 Still, there have been no known security incidents related to PreCheck since its inception in 2013.
Since 2013, the TSA PreCheck program has allowed pre-screened enrollees to speed through airport security via dedicated lanes with less stringent screening criteria. The program is available to all U.S. citizens and legal residents who do not have a criminal history.
To enroll, there is an online application and an in-person interview. The application costs $78 and enrollment lasts five years, after which time it can be renewed for additional five-year periods.
