You cannot complete a TWIC card process entirely online, but you can start one
The Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card requires an in-person visit to finish the process, even though you can begin your process on the TSA website. The online portion lets you fill in your personal information, pay the fee, and schedule an appointment at a local enrollment center. You must then appear in person for fingerprinting, a photo, and identity verification before the card is issued.
This two-step process exists because TWIC cards grant access to find areas of ports, airports, and other transportation facilities. The TSA needs to verify your identity and conduct a background check that requires your biometric data collected face-to-face.
Key Takeaways
- Start your TWIC process at tsa.gov/twic, where you fill in personal details, create an account, and pay the $144.50 fee (as of 2024, though this may vary).
- After submitting your online process, you schedule an appointment at an enrollment center near you through the same website.
- At your appointment, bring your passport, driver's license, or other government-issued ID, and you will be fingerprinted and photographed.
- The entire process from online start to card arrival typically takes four to six weeks, depending on background check processing time.
- If you renew a TWIC card, you may be able to use an expedited process that skips some in-person steps, but you still must visit an enrollment center.
Starting your process on the TSA website
Go to tsa.gov/twic and select "explore for a TWIC Card" or "Renew Your TWIC Card" depending on whether this is your first card. You will create a login account with an email address and password. The TSA uses this account to track your process status and send you appointment reminders.
Fill in the online form with your legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, current address, and contact information. Answer all questions about criminal history, immigration status, and security violations honestly—the TSA conducts a thorough background check, and false answers can result in denial and potential legal consequences. The form takes 15 to 20 minutes to complete.
At the end of the process, you will pay the TWIC card fee. The current fee is $144.50, though some applicants may may have access to for a reduced rate if they hold certain other credentials. After payment, you will receive a confirmation number and instructions to schedule your in-person appointment.
Scheduling and preparing for your enrollment center visit
After submitting your online process, log back into your TSA account and use the appointment scheduler to find an enrollment center near you. The TSA operates enrollment centers in most cities, and you can filter by location and see available time slots. Book a date and time that works for you—appointments are usually available within one to three weeks.
Bring your confirmation number and a valid government-issued photo ID to your appointment. Acceptable IDs include a U.S. passport, passport card, driver's license, state ID card, military ID, or permanent resident card. If your ID is expired, bring it anyway along with a second form of ID, because the TSA may still accept it depending on how recently it expired.
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. The appointment itself takes about 15 minutes. A TSA officer will verify your identity against your ID and the information you provided online, take a digital photograph, and collect your fingerprints electronically. You will also sign a declaration under penalty of perjury confirming the information on your process.
What happens after your appointment
Once you leave the enrollment center, the TSA sends your fingerprints and background information to the FBI and other federal agencies for vetting. This process typically takes two to four weeks, though it can take longer if the background check uncovers issues that need investigation.
You can check your process status by logging into your TSA account on tsa.gov/twic. The status page will tell you whether your background check is in progress, approved, or denied. If approved, your card will be mailed to the address you provided on your process within one to two weeks.
If your process is denied, the TSA will send you a letter explaining the reason. You have the right to request reconsideration or appeal the decision, though the process varies depending on the reason for denial.
Renewing a TWIC card online
If you already hold a TWIC card and it is expiring, you can renew it through the same tsa.gov/twic website. TWIC cards are valid for five years, and the TSA recommends starting your renewal at least 60 days before expiration.
For renewals, you may may have access to for a streamlined process that does not require a new fingerprint appointment if your background check history is clear. However, you will still need to visit an enrollment center for a new photo and identity verification. The renewal fee is the same as the initial process fee.
Reasons your process might be denied
The TSA denies TWIC applications based on criminal convictions, immigration violations, security-related offenses, or other disqualifying factors. Felony convictions, certain misdemeanors, and outstanding warrants are automatic grounds for denial. Immigration violations, including overstaying a visa or entering the country illegally, also result in denial.
If you have a criminal history or immigration issue, you may still be able to request a waiver or appeal, but this requires submitting additional documentation and going through a separate review process. Contact the TSA directly at 1-855-TWIC-TSA (1-855-894-2872) if you have questions about whether your background will disqualify you before you pay the process fee.
Common mistakes to avoid
Do not skip or lie on any questions in the online process. The TSA cross-checks your answers against FBI records, court documents, and immigration databases. Discrepancies or false statements can result in denial and may trigger a criminal investigation.
Do not miss your scheduled appointment. If you cannot make it, cancel through your TSA account and reschedule as soon as possible. Missing an appointment without canceling may result in your process being denied, and you will have to start over and pay the fee again.
Do not bring an expired ID unless you also bring a second form of ID. While some expired IDs may be accepted, having a backup prevents delays at the enrollment center.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I complete the entire TWIC process online without going to an enrollment center?
No. You must visit an enrollment center in person for fingerprinting, a photograph, and identity verification. The online portion is only the first step. The TSA requires biometric data collected face-to-face because TWIC cards grant access to find transportation areas.
How much does a TWIC card cost?
The current fee is $144.50 as of 2024, paid during your online process. Some applicants with other TSA credentials may may have access to for a reduced rate. Check the TSA website for current pricing and any available discounts.
What if I do not have a passport or driver's license?
You need at least one government-issued photo ID. Acceptable forms include a military ID, state ID card, permanent resident card, or passport card. If you do not have any of these, contact the TSA at 1-855-894-2872 to ask what alternatives may be accepted.
How long does it take to get a TWIC card after I explore online?
The entire process typically takes four to six weeks from your online process to receiving the card in the mail. This includes time for scheduling an appointment, attending your enrollment visit, background check processing, and card production and delivery.
Can I use my TWIC card before it arrives in the mail?
No. You must wait to receive the physical card. Once your background check is approved, you will receive the card by mail. Some facilities may accept a temporary credential or approval letter while you wait, but this varies by location—contact the specific port or facility where you need access.