Signing up for TSA PreCheck might not be something you actively think about. It’s easy to forget about the time you spent in airport security lines when you’re fondly looking back on your last trip to Japan or on a Napa Valley wine tour.
But the next time you’re lugging your bag through a painstakingly slow line, you might vow to sign up, finally, for TSA PreCheck. Then, on the trip after that, you’ll sail past the crying babies and annoying line jumpers, keeping your shoes on and your laptop in its case the entire time.
If you’re someone who has put off applying for or even doing your research on TSA PreCheck, here’s your quick-and-easy guide to the game-changing program, including the benefits, costs, and how it’s different from Global Entry.
What is TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck is a way to expedite the airport security process. A government program that opened for enrollment in 2013, it provides a separate security screening lane for approved passengers. Travelers with TSA PreCheck don’t have to take off their shoes, belts, or light jackets when going through security. They’re also spared from digging out their laptops and liquids from their carry-ons, which makes for an easier and faster screening process.
Similar to TSA PreCheck, Global Entry is a program that allows travelers to move through customs lines much more quickly when re-entering the U.S. than those not in the program. For people who frequently travel abroad, it’s worth considering applying for Global Entry instead of TSA PreCheck as Global Entry membership includes it.
Additionally, the price of Global Entry is $100, only $15-$22 more than the price of TSA PreCheck alone. Even if you don’t fly internationally often, the small additional charge may be a smart investment for five years of Global Entry and TSA PreCheck in the chance you travel abroad within that time frame. That said, the Global Entry interview process is often more complex and time-consuming than TSA PreCheck’s.
How much does TSA PreCheck cost?
To secure five years of TSA PreCheck, you have three provider options with centers through which to enroll with different prices: Clear ($77.95), Idemia ($78), and Telos ($85). You might, however, be able to get TSA PreCheck for free by paying with a credit card that offers reimbursement.
When you renew your enrollment, it will usually costs less if you opt to do so online instead of in-person at one of the centers. For Clear, online renewal is $68.95 and in-person is $77.95; Idemia is $70 online and $78 in-person; and Telos is $70 either way.
Do credit cards pay for TSA PreCheck?
The Transportation Security Administration lists dozens of credit cards that include TSA PreCheck as a member benefit, allow card holders to use their credit card points to pay for enrollment, or reimburse the enrollment fee. Those cards include some airline credit cards (United, Southwest, Delta), MasterCard’s Gold and Black cards, Chase Sapphire Reserve, Capital One Venture and Venture X, Bank of America Premium Rewards, and others.
Is TSA PreCheck worth it?
It all depends on how much you travel, how much standing in the security line bothers you, and who you travel with. If you travel often for business, TSA PreCheck can end up saving you quite a bit of time. It may also be worthwhile if you and a partner like to go on a few trips a year, as long as both of you are enrolled. But bear in mind that if you’re traveling with someone who doesn’t have TSA PreCheck, you’ll be stuck waiting for them to get through the standard line anyway.
How do you apply for TSA PreCheck?
Your first step is to apply online, then you’ll schedule an in-person appointment at one of more than 500 enrollment centers around the U.S. The appointment should only take 10 minutes and will include fingerprinting and a background check.
Once you’re enrolled, you’ll get your Known Traveler Number (KTN) usually within 3-5 days (although it can take up to 60), which you can add to your airline reservations and store in your airline profiles.
How long does it take to get TSA PreCheck?
You might be approved for TSA PreCheck within a week of your in-person appointment, but because it could take up to 60 days, travelers are strongly encouraged to apply 60 days ahead of travel or before their current membership expires. Renewal applications are accepted six months before the expiration date, and you can do this online rather than in-person if you want.
How long is TSA PreCheck good for?
TSA PreCheck benefits last for five years, then you have to get your membership renewed by applying online and paying the renewal fee.
Where is TSA PreCheck accepted?
Some airports don’t have TSA PreCheck, but 90 airlines and more than 200 airports do. TSA PreCheck is offered at all the major travel hubs, including John F. Kennedy International Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, Chicago O’Hare International Airport, Dulles International Airport, and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. It’s typically safe to assume that your airline will accept it — you’re in the clear with Delta, American Airlines, JetBlue, Lufthansa, United, Alaska Airlines, Air Canada, British Airways, Aer Lingus, and Qatar Airways — but there are still a few airlines that don’t, including Ryanair, and easyJet.
Will your boarding pass say you have TSA PreCheck?
If you have TSA PreCheck, your boarding pass should reflect that. Enrolled passengers will often have “TSAPRECHK,” “TSA PRE,” or “TSA Pre✓” on their boarding pass. When your boarding pass is scanned, the barcode should also signify that you have TSA PreCheck, and the airport staff will point you toward the appropriate line.
What if the person you’re traveling with doesn’t have TSA PreCheck?
Unfortunately, travelers without TSA PreCheck aren’t able to join members in the expedited line. Because every TSA PreCheck recipient has to go through an application and screening process, any travel companions who don’t have it can’t enjoy the same perks. Everyone must have TSA PreCheck indicated on their boarding passes except children 12 and younger who are traveling with a parent or guardian. You’ll just have to wait for your non-TSA PreCheck companions on the other side of security.
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