Sachin Walls
TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and CLEAR are programs that allow travellers to skip the long security lines at airports. TSA PreCheck offers a five-year membership for expedited security checks at over 200 airports in the US. The cost of enrolment varies by provider, with prices ranging from $77.95 to $85 for a five-year membership. Renewal fees range from $68.95 to $78. The cheapest way to register for TSA PreCheck is through CLEAR, which has fewer enrolment locations than other providers. Some credit cards and frequent flyer programs also reimburse the application fee, which is another cost-saving option for travellers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Program Name | TSA PreCheck |
| Provider Options | CLEAR, IDEMIA, Telos |
| Benefits | Faster airport screening, no need to remove shoes, belts, light jackets, laptops or TSA-approved liquids |
| Cost | $77.95 to $85 for a 5-year membership, renewals are $68.95 to $70 |
| Payment Options | Some credit cards and elite frequent flyer programs reimburse the application fee |
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What You'll Learn
TSA PreCheck® costs
The TSA PreCheck® is a federal trusted traveller program that lets you go through special security lanes at the airport, which usually means faster and less intrusive screening. The cost of enrolling in the TSA PreCheck® program varies depending on the enrollment provider.
The TSA has selected several partners to help travellers enroll in the TSA PreCheck® program. Applicants can choose any enrollment provider based on cost, locations, and additional benefits. The enrollment providers include CLEAR, IDEMIA, and Telos.
The cost of submitting a TSA PreCheck® application is $78 at an IDEMIA enrollment center, $85 at a Telos enrollment center, and $77.95 at an airport kiosk through Clear. If you choose to package Clear Plus membership with your TSA PreCheck® membership, it will cost $199.95.
After the initial application fee, TSA PreCheck® renewal costs $70 if completed online with IDEMIA or Telos, and $68.95 if renewed online through Clear. The membership lasts for five years.
It is worth noting that some credit cards and elite frequent flyer programs reimburse the application fee for the TSA PreCheck® program. Additionally, several credit cards offer assistance with enrollment costs.
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TSA PreCheck® application
The TSA PreCheck® program allows eligible travellers to undergo expedited screening at over 200 participating US airports and on more than 80 airlines. The program is designed to make security screening more efficient and predictable.
To apply for TSA PreCheck®, you must first select an enrollment provider based on cost, location, and additional benefits. Some of the authorized providers include CLEAR, IDEMIA, and Telos. Costs for enrollment vary by provider, with IDEMIA charging $78, Telos charging $85, and CLEAR charging $77.95 or $199.95 if packaged with Clear Plus membership.
Once you have chosen a provider, you can pre-enroll online and schedule an appointment, or simply walk into an enrollment center. The online application takes about five minutes to complete, and the in-person visit takes approximately ten minutes. During the in-person process, your fingerprints and photo will be captured, your identity documents will be verified, and payment will be collected. The application fee is non-refundable and covers the cost of background checks.
It is important to note that some credit cards and loyalty programs will reimburse your application fee. Additionally, several travel credit cards offer statement credits to cover the cost of PreCheck. Therefore, before applying, check with your credit card company or loyalty program to see if they offer any assistance with enrollment costs.
After submitting your application, most applicants receive their Known Traveler Number (KTN) within 3-5 days. However, some applications may take up to 60 days for approval.
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TSA PreCheck® renewal
TSA PreCheck® is a federal trusted traveller programme that allows you to go through special security lanes at the airport, which usually means faster and less intrusive screening. The cost of TSA PreCheck® renewal varies by enrolment provider and location.
- Idemia: $78 for application, $70 for renewal.
- Telos: $85 for application, $70 for renewal.
- Clear: $77.95 for application, $68.95 for renewal.
The membership lasts for five years, and you can renew up to six months before your expiration date. The new membership period begins as the current one ends, so there is no disadvantage to renewing early.
You can renew your membership online or in person at an enrolment centre. To renew online, pick an enrolment provider and complete your renewal in as little as 5 minutes. You can also renew in person at an enrolment centre, which may be preferable if you have changed your name since enrolling.
Some credit cards and elite frequent flyer programs reimburse your application fee, so be sure to check if you are eligible for this benefit.
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TSA PreCheck® benefits
The TSA PreCheck® program offers several benefits to travellers:
Faster and less intrusive screening
Travellers with TSA PreCheck® can go through special security lanes at the airport, which usually means faster and less intrusive screening. About 99% of TSA PreCheck® passengers wait less than 10 minutes. There is no need to remove shoes, belts, light jackets, electronics, or 3-1-1 liquids from your bag.
Wide availability
TSA PreCheck® lanes are available at over 200 airports and through more than 90 airlines.
Cost efficiency
The cost of TSA PreCheck® depends on the enrolment provider, with prices ranging from $77.95 to $85. Additionally, some credit cards and frequent flyer programs will reimburse the application fee, and travel credit cards can help offset renewal costs.
Convenience
Enrolling in TSA PreCheck® is convenient, as it can be done online or at one of the many enrolment centres. Some providers offer extended hours and do not require appointments.
Discounts and additional benefits
Enrolling through certain providers may qualify travellers for discounts on other travel products. Additionally, TSA PreCheck® members can access upcoming travel deals.
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TSA PreCheck® vs Global Entry
TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry are both Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Trusted Traveler Programs that allow travellers to go through special security lanes at the airport, which usually means faster and less intrusive screening.
TSA PreCheck® provides expedited security screening benefits for flights departing from US airports. It costs $78 to submit an application at an Idemia enrolment centre, $85 at a Telos enrolment centre, or $77.95 if enrolled through Clear at an airport kiosk. TSA PreCheck® is a great choice for domestic travellers who take less than four international trips a year.
Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck® and its benefits but also gives expedited US customs screening when travelling internationally. Upon returning to the US, travellers can use an airport kiosk, which is usually faster than traditional customs inspection lines. Global Entry is more expensive than TSA PreCheck® and is the better choice for international travellers, especially those who travel internationally four or more times a year.
Some credit cards and elite frequent flyer programs will reimburse the application or renewal fees for either TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry.
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Frequently asked questions
The cheapest way to register for airport precheck is through CLEAR, which costs $77.95 for a five-year membership. However, CLEAR has fewer enrollment locations than other providers.
Airport precheck lets you go through special security lanes at the airport, which usually means faster and less intrusive screening. You don't need to remove your shoes, belt, light jacket, laptop or TSA-approved liquids.
You can apply for airport precheck through authorized providers like CLEAR, IDEMIA or Telos. You can submit an online application and then schedule a 10-minute in-person appointment at one of the many enrollment centers. The appointment includes a background check and fingerprinting.
