What is TSA PreCheck®?
TSA PreCheck® is a program administered by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that allows travelers to use an expedited screening line for a smoother security process.
Once you become a TSA PreCheck® member, you will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that you can add when booking a flight with a participating airline. Your boarding pass will show the TSA PreCheck® indicator, which grants you access to the expedited TSA PreCheck® line.
Learn more about the benefits of TSA PreCheck® and how to apply.
What you’ll learn:
-
TSA PreCheck® can help you move through U.S. airport security more quickly and efficiently.
-
With TSA PreCheck®, you can use a separate security line and don’t have to remove your shoes, belt or light jacket. You can also keep your laptop and small liquids in your luggage.
-
An online application, a fee and an in-person appointment are required to enroll in TSA PreCheck®.
-
Many travel credit cards, including Capital One travel cards, will cover the TSA PreCheck® application fee for cardholders.
How does TSA PreCheck® work?
TSA PreCheck® is a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) run by the TSA that offers expedited security screening to low-risk travelers at more than 200 airports and 90 airlines.
Your TSA PreCheck® membership lasts for five years, and a TSA PreCheck® application costs up to $85 depending on where you enroll and the enrollment type—new or renewal. In some instances, the fee may be covered by a travel credit card. For example, Venture X from Capital One offers up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®.*
What are the benefits of TSA PreCheck®?
TSA PreCheck® lines mean a faster security screening process. TSA says that 99% of TSA PreCheck® members wait in line for less than 10 minutes.
Unlike typical airport security screening, TSA PreCheck® doesn’t require the removal of the following:
-
Belts
-
Shoes
-
Light jackets
-
Laptops
-
Approved small liquids
What are the eligibility requirements for TSA PreCheck®?
U.S. citizens, nationals and lawful permanent residents are eligible to apply for TSA PreCheck®. Children under 12 years of age can also use TSA PreCheck® with an eligible adult.
Applicants with a criminal history or a violation of federal security regulations may be ineligible or suspended from TSA PreCheck®.
How to get TSA PreCheck®
If you’re eligible for TSA PreCheck®, the steps to apply are as follows:
-
Choose a provider, CLEAR®, IDEMIA or Telos, with an enrollment center near you.
-
Apply online on the provider’s website, which takes about five minutes.
-
Schedule an in-person appointment at one of the provider’s enrollment centers.
-
Attend the appointment for fingerprinting, document handoff and fee payment. TSA PreCheck® costs up to $85, depending on the provider and the enrollment type—new or renewal.
-
Once approved, you’ll receive a KTN to add to flight reservations.
Is TSA PreCheck® worth it?
One of the benefits of TSA PreCheck® is that it saves you time at airport security. On average, TSA PreCheck® members spend less than five minutes getting through security. Still, whether or not TSA PreCheck® is worth it will depend on your travel preferences and habits.
Still not sure if TSA PreCheck® is worth it? Keep in mind, there are ways to become a PreCheck® member for free. Take a closer look at a few ways to get a free TSA PreCheck® membership:
-
Military members and Department of Defense (DOD) civilians: Active-duty military members, DOD employees and U.S. military academy cadets and midshipmen can use their DOD ID number as a KTN.
-
Other TTP memberships: Members of other TTPs like Global Entry, NEXUS and SENTRI may also have access to TSA PreCheck®.
-
Travel credit cards: Some travel credit cards, like Capital One’s Venture, Venture X, Spark Miles and Venture X Business cards, will reimburse cardholders with up to a $120 statement credit for the TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry application fee.*
- Loyalty programs: Some airline and hotel loyalty programs may allow members to use points or miles to pay for TSA PreCheck®.
TSA PreCheck® FAQ
While deciding if TSA Precheck® is right for you, consider these answers to some frequently asked questions:
How do you prepare for a TSA interview?
For your TSA Precheck® interview, make sure you bring the following:
- A valid photo ID: A military ID, passport or driver’s license.
- Citizenship documentation: A birth certificate or certificate of naturalization.
- Marriage certificate: Bring this if you have changed your name.
Arriving at your interview prepared with the necessary documents will help ensure a smooth process.
How long does it take to be approved for TSA PreCheck®?
According to TSA.gov, applicants generally receive an approval notification within three to five days. However, in some cases, it can take up to 60 days to receive approvals. Considering this timeline, the TSA also encourages members to renew at least 60 days before their membership is set to expire.
Key takeaways: What is TSA PreCheck®?
If you fly often and would like to spend less time and experience less hassle waiting in airport security lines, TSA PreCheck® may be a good choice.
See if you’re pre-approved for a Venture card with no harm to your credit. If approved, you could receive up to a $120 statement credit for TSA PreCheck® and other travel rewards.*
