Yes, children can use touchless TSA PreCheck, but the process and rules differ by age

Children ages 12 and under do not need their own TSA PreCheck membership to go through expedited security with a parent or guardian who has it. If a parent has an active PreCheck, the child can walk through the same lane and skip the standard screening steps—no shoes off, no liquids removal, no laptop out. The child still goes through the metal detector or body scanner, but the process is faster overall.

Children ages 13 and older can get their own TSA PreCheck membership if a parent or legal guardian enrolls them. The cost is the same as an adult membership, and it lasts five years. A child with their own PreCheck can go through expedited screening independently, though most families traveling together still use the parent's membership to keep things straightforward.

Key Takeaways

  • Children under 12 can use a parent's TSA PreCheck without needing their own membership.
  • Children 13 and older can get their own PreCheck membership if a parent or guardian enrolls them and pays the fee.
  • A child using a parent's PreCheck still goes through the metal detector or body scanner, but skips removing shoes, belts, and light jackets.
  • At the security checkpoint, the child should stay with the parent and follow the TSA officer's instructions, just like any other traveler in the PreCheck lane.

How children under 12 use a parent's PreCheck

When you have TSA PreCheck and travel with a child under 12, you can bring the child through the expedited lane with you. The child does not need to show a membership card or have their own known traveler number. straightforward tell the TSA officer at the checkpoint that the child is traveling with you, and they will direct you both to the PreCheck lane.

The child still needs a valid ID or passport to board the plane, but they do not need PreCheck credentials. At security, the child goes through the same screening equipment as you do—metal detector or body scanner—but without the extra steps. This means no removing shoes, no taking off light jackets or belts, and no pulling out liquids or electronics from carry-on bags.

Getting PreCheck for teenagers 13 and older

A teenager can enroll in TSA PreCheck if a parent or legal guardian completes the enrollment process and pays the membership fee. The teenager will need to attend an in-person appointment at a TSA PreCheck enrollment center to provide fingerprints and a photo ID. The parent or guardian does not have to be present at the appointment, but they must authorize and pay for the enrollment.

Once approved, the teenager receives their own known traveler number (KTN) and can use PreCheck independently or with family members. The membership lasts five years. Many families find it simpler to just use the parent's PreCheck when traveling together, since one adult can bring multiple children under 12 through the expedited lane without extra paperwork.

What to expect at security with a child in PreCheck

When you approach the PreCheck checkpoint with your child, have your ID and boarding pass ready, just as you would at a standard security lane. Tell the TSA officer that your child is traveling with you. The officer will direct you both into the expedited screening area. Your child should follow your lead and listen to any instructions the officer gives.

Your child will walk through the metal detector or body scanner with their shoes, belt, and light jacket on. They do not need to remove these items unless the TSA officer specifically asks. If your child is wearing a heavy coat or has metal items like a large belt buckle, the officer may ask them to remove those items, just as they might ask any traveler. After screening, you and your child proceed to your gate together.

Common questions about children and PreCheck screening

Many parents wonder whether their child will slow down the PreCheck line. The answer is no—children move through the expedited lane at the same pace as adults. The PreCheck lane exists specifically to speed up screening for families and individuals who have been vetted, so TSA officers expect to see children there and process them quickly.

Another common concern is whether a child might trigger additional screening. This is rare. Children under 12 traveling with a PreCheck member are considered lower-risk travelers and typically go through standard screening without extra steps. If a child does trigger an alarm at the metal detector, a TSA officer will handle it the same way they would for any other traveler—usually by asking the child to remove the item causing the alarm and walk through again.

Traveling with multiple children through PreCheck

If you have more than one child under 12, you can bring all of them through the PreCheck lane with you. There is no limit to how many children can travel with one PreCheck member. However, if you have a very young child or a child who needs extra help, you may want to allow extra time at security, even in the PreCheck lane, so you can help them without rushing.

If you have teenagers, you can mix and match: bring younger children through your PreCheck lane while older teenagers use their own PreCheck numbers. This flexibility makes PreCheck useful for larger families. Just make sure each person traveling has a valid ID and boarding pass before you reach the checkpoint.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to add my child's name to my PreCheck membership?

No. Children under 12 do not need to be registered or added to your account. You straightforward tell the TSA officer at the checkpoint that the child is traveling with you. Your PreCheck membership covers your children automatically.

What if my child is 12—can they use my PreCheck?

Yes. The cutoff is children under 12, so a 12-year-old can still use a parent's PreCheck. At 13, they would need their own membership if they want to use PreCheck independently, though they can still travel through your lane if you are traveling together.

How much does PreCheck cost for a teenager?

The cost is the same as an adult membership. Prices vary by enrollment center and may change, so check the TSA website for current fees in your area. The membership lasts five years.

Can my child go through PreCheck if I don't have it?

No. Children under 12 can only use PreCheck if they are traveling with a parent or guardian who has an active membership. Children 13 and older would need their own PreCheck to use the expedited lane.

What happens if my child refuses to go through the body scanner?

TSA officers are trained to work with children and can offer alternatives, such as a metal detector or a pat-down screening. Tell the officer if your child is anxious, and they can explain the process or adjust how they screen your child. Most children move through security without issues when a parent stays calm and reassuring.