Travelers often have to go through long security lines. The TSA requires passengers to remove their jackets, shoes, and belts, unlock carry-on bags to present liquids for inspection, and take laptops and other electronics out of bags for inspection.
Given the opportunity, most travelers prefer to get through TSA lines faster. The TSA provides just such an opportunity with TSA Precheck.
What is TSA Precheck?
TSA Precheck is a membership program that grants low-risk travelers access to streamlined security lines at hundreds of U.S. airports. The program is available to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and international citizens participating in the Global Entry trusted traveler program.
Benefits of TSA Precheck
TSA Precheck members have the following benefits:
- Access to a dedicated security line
- No need to remove shoes and belts
- Laptops and electronics can stay in bags
- Liquids can stay in bags but must still meet TSA 3-1-1 regulations
- No need to remove light outerwear
- Children under the age of 12 are included in your TSA Precheck membership
Just like normal security, TSA agents in the Precheck line scan your bags, and you still have to go through the metal detector, but at a much faster rate.
The TSA reserves the right to pull randomly selected travellers for extra screening, and in some circumstances, you may still have to remove shoes and belts with metal parts before going through the metal detector. Overall, however, you get through security faster and with less hassle.
How Much is TSA Precheck?
TSA Precheck cost depends on which TSA-approved enrollment provider you use: Telos or Idemia. Telos has 26 locations nationwide and charges $85 to apply. Idemia has over 620 locations and has a TSA Precheck cost of $78. Both providers offer online applications. The application fee is non-refundable.
You can avoid paying the TSA Precheck cost in certain situations. Active members of the U.S. Armed Forces receive free Precheck benefits. Select airline and hotel loyalty programs allow you to redeem points towards Precheck application fees, and some travel cards will reimburse the application cost.
How to Get TSA Precheck
To begin a TSA precheck application, go to the TSA Precheck webpage, choose an enrollment provider, and fill in the application form. Once your application is complete, you’ll need to make an appointment with the nearest enrollment center. You’ll receive an email confirming your appointment date.
Depending on your location, you may have to wait several weeks for an appointment. While it is possible to drop into an enrollment center without an appointment to complete your TSA Precheck application, it’s not recommended, as the center may not be able to accommodate you.
A TSA Precheck application appointment takes approximately ten minutes. Bring a valid photo ID and proof of citizenship or immigration documentation. You’ll be fingerprinted, asked a few questions, and undergo a background check.
As the TSA application fee is nonrefundable, make sure you qualify for the program before applying. The TSA can deny approval to people who have committed certain criminal offences or have previously violated customs and immigration laws. Providing false information will also result in a denied application.
How Long Does it Take to Get TSA Precheck?
After your TSA Precheck enrollment center appointment, you’ll receive word of whether your application was accepted by email and mail, usually within five working days. The approval form will include your KTN, or Known Traveler Number, which you should add to your frequent flier accounts and airline reservations.
Is TSA Precheck Worth It?
In our opinion, yes. Even if you only take one round trip every year, the cost of TSA Precheck is $8.50 per flight. TSA Precheck is even more worthwhile for people who travel multiple times a year because it allows you to navigate the TSA checkpoint easily.
How Long is TSA Precheck Good for?
A TSA Precheck lasts for five years, after which it can be renewed online.
Global Entry vs. TSA Paycheck
Global Entry offers expedited screening upon entering the United States from international trips. The program costs $100 for five years and includes admission to TSA Precheck. If you travel outside the USA regularly, Global Entry might be the best program for you.
Clear vs. TSA Precheck
While TSA Precheck is offered by the U.S. government, Clear is a security screening program offered by Clear, a privately owned biometrics company. Clear allows you to skip the security line by presenting your ID and boarding pass at a Clear kiosk. While one of the fastest ways to circumvent security lines, Clear is only available in select airports and costs $189 a year.
In addition to Precheck, Clear, and Global Entry, travellers have two other options.
- NEXUS is a five-year, $50 program run by the USA and Canada to facilitate movement in both directions across the northern border.
- SENTRI, the southern counterpart to NEXUS, offers trusted travellers expedited screening times into the United States from Mexico.
Need more tips for navigating airports? Learn how to get through customs faster.
