Roberta Aguirre
TSA PreCheck® is an expedited security program that allows eligible travellers to speed up their screening process at participating U.S. airports and for most international trips. To enrol in TSA PreCheck, you can complete an online application and then visit an enrolment location, where they will collect your biometric data (fingerprints, photo), verify identity documents, and collect payment. Once approved, you will receive a Known Traveller Number (KTN), which you must include in your airline reservation to receive a TSA PreCheck® indicator on your boarding pass. TSA PreCheck® members must also complete the Global Entry application process before their TSA PreCheck membership expires to continue receiving TSA PreCheck screening.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| TSA PreCheck® indicator | Must be displayed on the boarding pass to access the lanes |
| Application process | Takes 5 minutes to complete online and 10 minutes in-person |
| In-person process | Enrollment provider will collect biometric data (fingerprints, photo), verify identity documents, and collect payment |
| Application fee | Must be paid in-person at a TSA enrollment center |
| REAL ID requirement | All travelers must have a REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification (e.g., passport) |
| Known Traveler Number (KTN) | Must be entered in the airline reservation to receive TSA PreCheck® |
| Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI card | Cannot be used to access TSA PreCheck® lanes |
| TSA PreCheck® lane | Provides expedited security screening benefits for flights departing from U.S. Airports |
| TSA PreCheck® membership | Must complete the Global Entry application process before membership expires to receive TSA PreCheck screening |
| TSA PreCheck® Touchless ID | Available for eligible flights when checking in through the American app |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
TSA PreCheck® membership
TSA PreCheck® is a program by the Department of Homeland Security that provides expedited security screening benefits for flights departing from U.S. airports. It is one of several Trusted Traveler Programs offered by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Other programs include Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI.
To enrol in TSA PreCheck®, you must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident, or a citizen of a partner country enrolled in Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI. Canadian citizens who are members of NEXUS are also eligible. The application process can be started online and takes about five minutes to complete. After completing the online application, you must schedule an in-person appointment at an enrolment centre, which takes about 10 minutes. During the in-person appointment, your identity documents will be verified, and your biometric data (fingerprints and photo) will be collected. You will also need to pay the application fee, which cannot be done online.
Once approved for TSA PreCheck®, you will enjoy a smoother experience at airport security checkpoints. To receive TSA PreCheck® benefits, you must enter your Known Traveler Number (KTN) in the appropriate field when booking your flight reservation. If you are a member of Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI, your KTN is your CBP PASSID. Your boarding pass will display a TSA PreCheck® indicator, granting you access to the TSA PreCheck® lanes. It is important to note that children under 17 can join an adult with TSA PreCheck® if the indicator appears on their boarding pass. However, if you are escorting your child with a gate pass, you will not be directed to the TSA PreCheck® lanes, regardless of your membership status.
It is important to keep your information up to date with TSA PreCheck®. For example, if you change your name, you must update your membership details, or you will not be able to use your benefits when travelling. Additionally, TSA PreCheck® members must complete the Global Entry application process before their membership expires to continue receiving TSA PreCheck® screening. Violations of federal security regulations may result in suspension or permanent denial of TSA PreCheck® membership.
Purchasing Carry-Ons: Airport or Before Frontier Flight?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Application process
To apply for TSA PreCheck®, you must go in person to an enrollment centre to provide documentation, fingerprints, and payment. There are over 350 off-airport locations, and you can find the nearest one to you on the TSA website.
Firstly, you can pre-enrol online and make an appointment for the in-person process, or you can walk into an enrolment centre without an appointment. The online application takes five minutes to complete, and the in-person visit takes ten minutes.
During the in-person process, the enrolment provider will collect your biometric data (fingerprints, photo), verify identity documents, and collect payment. You must provide an original or certified copy of identity/citizenship status documentation during the application process, and the names on all documents must match exactly with the name provided on the application. If you have legally changed your name, you must provide an original or certified name change document (e.g. marriage certificate, divorce decree) in addition to the required documentation.
Applicants pay a non-refundable $85 fee to cover the cost of background checks. If approved, most applicants receive their Known Traveller Number (KTN) in 3-5 days, though some applications can take up to 60 days.
If you are a member of a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Trusted Traveller program, including Global Entry, SENTRI, or NEXUS, you are eligible to participate in TSA PreCheck®. You can enter your membership number (PASS ID) in the "Known Traveller Number" field when booking reservations, or enter it into your frequent flyer profile with the airline.
Renting a Car from the Airport: Who Qualifies?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Accepted forms of identification
All travelers, including TSA PreCheck enrollees, must have a REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification to fly once the TSA enforces the REAL ID requirement at airports. The list of acceptable IDs is subject to change, so it is recommended to check the list before traveling. Here are some of the currently accepted forms of identification:
- REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent).
- State-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID).
- U.S. passport or passport card.
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST).
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents.
- An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs).
- U.S. Citizen Identification Card (I-179 or I-197).
- Expired U.S. passport within 12 months of expiration (can be used as proof of citizenship but must be presented with another document).
- U.S. military ID.
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization card (1-766).
It is important to note that a temporary driver's license is not an acceptable form of identification, and passengers with a state-issued ID that is not REAL ID-compliant may be directed to a separate area for additional screening.
Mumbai Airport Layover: Can I Leave?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Airport screening benefits
Airport screening is an essential part of ensuring safe air travel. The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) has implemented various measures to enhance security and facilitate efficient travel. Here are some key benefits of airport screening:
- Enhanced Security: TSA screening procedures are designed to identify and prevent potential security threats. By inspecting carry-on and checked baggage, TSA officers detect prohibited items, explosives, and other dangerous materials. This comprehensive screening process helps maintain a safe environment for travellers and staff.
- Expedited Screening with TSA PreCheck®: The TSA PreCheck® program offers expedited security screening at participating airports. Members can enjoy a streamlined process by keeping their shoes, belts, light jackets, and laptops on, and leaving their 3-1-1 liquids in their bags. This program provides a faster and more convenient travel experience for eligible individuals.
- Trusted Traveler Programs: TSA PreCheck® is part of the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Trusted Traveler Programs, which include Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI. These programs are designed for trusted travellers, allowing them to verify their status using their Known Traveler Number (KTN) or membership number. This enables expedited screening and facilitates smoother travel for pre-approved, low-risk individuals.
- Security for Last-Point-of-Departure Airports: For flights into the U.S., the TSA implements an extensive screening process at last-point-of-departure airports. This additional screening of property and personal electronic devices enhances security for inbound flights, ensuring a safe travel experience for passengers and crew.
- Passenger Safety and Convenience: TSA screening goes beyond baggage inspection. They also provide secure storage for travellers' belongings, such as universal "master" keys for specific luggage locks, preventing the need to cut locks during inspections. TSA actively encourages travellers to report unattended bags, suspicious activities, and potential security threats, empowering passengers to contribute to a safer travel environment.
- Risk-Based Prescreening: The Secure Flight program enhances security by prescreening passengers before they arrive at the airport. By matching passenger names against trusted traveler lists and watchlists, TSA identifies potential risks and allocates security resources effectively. This proactive approach helps streamline the screening process and enhances overall security.
Using Epass for Sanford Airport Parking
You may want to see also
Explore related products
TSA security checkpoints
The TSA PreCheck® program expedites traveller screening through participating TSA security checkpoints. This means that travellers can benefit from faster screening at participating airports. To enrol in TSA PreCheck®, you can either apply online or walk into any enrolment location. The online application takes five minutes to complete, with the in-person visit taking ten minutes. During the in-person process, the enrolment provider will collect your biometric data (fingerprints, photo), verify identity documents, and collect payment.
To be eligible for TSA PreCheck®, you must be a U.S. citizen, a U.S. lawful permanent resident, or a citizen of a partner country enrolled in Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI. Canadian citizens who are members of NEXUS are also eligible. All travellers, including TSA PreCheck® enrollees, must have a REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification (e.g. passport) to fly once the REAL ID requirement is enforced at airports. To obtain a REAL ID, contact your state's driver's licensing agency.
To receive TSA PreCheck®, travellers must enter their Known Traveler Number (KTN) in their airline reservation to receive a TSA PreCheck® indicator on their boarding pass. Children under 17 can join an adult with TSA PreCheck® when TSA PreCheck appears on the child's boarding pass. TSA PreCheck members must complete the Global Entry application process before their TSA PreCheck membership expires to continue receiving TSA PreCheck screening.
TSA uses unpredictable security measures, both seen and unseen, throughout the airport. All travellers will be screened, and no individual is guaranteed expedited screening.
Airport Metal Detectors: Can They See Private Parts?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
You can apply for TSA PreCheck® approval online or in person. The online application takes five minutes to complete, and the in-person process takes ten minutes. During the in-person process, the enrollment provider will collect your biometric data (fingerprints, photo), verify identity documents, and collect payment.
TSA PreCheck® provides expedited security screening benefits for flights departing from U.S. airports. About 99% of TSA PreCheck® passengers wait less than 10 minutes.
If you have questions concerning your TSA PreCheck® status, you can reach out to the TSA via Twitter (@AskTSA), Facebook Messenger, Apple Business Chat, or by texting "Travel" to 275-872.
Yes, all travelers, including TSA PreCheck® enrollees, must have a REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification (e.g., passport) to fly once the REAL ID requirement is enforced at airports.
