TSA PreCheck approval with a felony depends on the type of crime and how long ago it occurred

A felony conviction does not automatically disqualify you from TSA PreCheck. The Transportation Security Administration reviews each process individually, weighing the nature of the offense, when it happened, and what you have done since. Some people with felonies on their record have been approved; others have not. The decision rests on whether TSA determines you pose a security risk at the airport.

TSA does not publish a list of crimes that automatically bar you or may provide approval. Instead, the agency uses a standard called "security threat assessment." This means they look at your entire history, not just the conviction itself. A drug felony from 15 years ago carries different weight than a violent crime from last year. Time, rehabilitation, and the specific offense all factor in.

Key Takeaways

  • TSA PreCheck applications with a felony record are reviewed case-by-case; no single crime automatically disqualifies you.
  • Violent felonies, weapons offenses, and crimes involving deception are more likely to result in denial than other types of felonies.
  • The age of the conviction matters — older offenses carry less weight than recent ones in the security assessment.
  • You must disclose your felony on the TSA PreCheck process; lying about it will result in when ready denial and possible federal charges.
  • If denied, you can request reconsideration and provide additional information about rehabilitation or changed circumstances.

Which felonies are most likely to result in denial

TSA is most likely to deny PreCheck to applicants with convictions involving violence, weapons, or crimes of deception. Felonies like assault, robbery, murder, or manslaughter raise when ready red flags because they suggest a direct threat to airport safety. Similarly, weapons offenses — manufacturing, distributing, or possessing illegal firearms — signal a risk that TSA takes seriously.

Crimes involving fraud, forgery, or identity theft also carry heavy weight because they suggest dishonesty. TSA reasons that someone willing to deceive in one context may deceive about their background or intentions. Drug trafficking felonies are treated more seriously than straightforward possession, though both can result in denial depending on the circumstances and timing.

Espionage, treason, and terrorism-related convictions are nearly certain grounds for denial. So are convictions for crimes against aviation — hijacking, sabotage, or threats against aircraft. If your felony falls into any of these categories, approval is unlikely unless many years have passed and you have substantial evidence of rehabilitation.

How the age of your conviction affects your chances

A felony from 20 years ago is not the same as one from two years ago in TSA's eyes. The agency does consider the passage of time as evidence that you are no longer a threat. However, there is no fixed rule — TSA does not say "felonies older than 10 years are automatically approved" or anything similar.

Generally, the older the conviction, the better your chances, especially if you have stayed out of trouble since. A single felony from the 1990s with no subsequent arrests may be viewed very differently from a felony from last year. The recency of the offense suggests whether the behavior is part of your past or part of your present pattern.

What happens when you disclose your felony on the process

The TSA PreCheck process asks directly about criminal history. You must answer truthfully. Lying on a federal security process is itself a federal crime and will result in automatic denial plus potential prosecution. TSA cross-checks applications against FBI records, so omitting a felony will be discovered.

When you disclose a felony, your process goes to a TSA officer for manual review instead of automated approval. This review takes longer — sometimes several weeks — but it is the only honest path forward. The officer will examine the details: the conviction date, the sentence, whether you completed probation or parole, and any other relevant facts.

You can provide additional context in writing. If you have completed rehabilitation programs, maintained steady employment, or have letters of reference, include them. These do not may provide approval, but they give TSA a fuller picture of who you are now, not just who you were when convicted.

The difference between a felony conviction and other criminal history

TSA also considers misdemeanors, arrests without conviction, and pending charges. A misdemeanor alone is less likely to result in denial than a felony, but multiple misdemeanors or a pattern of criminal behavior can still disqualify you. An arrest that did not lead to conviction is treated differently — TSA looks at the circumstances, not just the outcome.

Pending charges are a separate issue. If you are currently facing charges, TSA may defer your process until the case is resolved. A conviction is clearer to evaluate than an open case. Similarly, if you are on probation or parole, your process may be held until you have completed your sentence.

What to do if your PreCheck process is denied

If TSA denies your process, you receive a letter explaining the reason in general terms. It may say "disqualifying criminal offense" without spelling out exactly which aspect of your record caused the denial. You have the right to request reconsideration and to provide additional information.

To request reconsideration, contact the TSA officer or office that denied you and ask for the appeals process. Different enrollment centers may have slightly different procedures, so ask specifically what documents or statements they need. You can submit updated information about your life since the conviction — employment history, community involvement, counseling completed, or any other evidence of rehabilitation.

If reconsideration is denied, you can file a complaint with the TSA Ombudsman, though this does not overturn the decision. Your other option is to reapply after a significant period of time has passed and your circumstances have changed substantially. Some people denied initially have been approved years later when enough time had elapsed.

Alternatives if PreCheck is not an option

If you are denied TSA PreCheck, you can still fly. You will go through standard security screening at the airport — longer lines, full pat-down if needed, and bag checks. This is slower but not impossible. Millions of people fly without PreCheck every year.

You may also be may be able to access for other TSA programs. Global Entry, for example, has similar background requirements and is unlikely to approve you if PreCheck was denied. However, some trusted traveler programs have different standards. Ask TSA directly which programs you might be considered for given your specific situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to tell TSA about a felony if it was expunged?

Yes. Even if your record was expunged under state law, you must disclose the conviction on the TSA PreCheck process. Federal background checks access records that state expungement does not erase. Failing to disclose an expunged felony is still lying on a federal form.

Will a felony from another country affect my TSA PreCheck?

Yes. TSA conducts international background checks and considers foreign convictions. A felony committed abroad is treated similarly to a domestic one — the nature of the crime and time elapsed both matter. You must disclose it on your process.

How long does it take to hear back if you have a felony on your record?

Applications with criminal history take longer than standard approvals. Expect four to eight weeks for a manual review, though it can be faster or slower depending on the complexity of your case and how busy the enrollment center is. Contact the center where you applied if you have not heard back after two months.

Can I fly domestically without TSA PreCheck if I have a felony?

Yes. You can fly domestically with standard security screening. You will need a valid government ID and will go through regular airport security. International flights require a passport and may have additional screening, but a felony does not prevent you from flying internationally either.

Does TSA PreCheck denial affect my ability to own a gun?

No. TSA PreCheck and gun ownership are separate legal matters. A denial from TSA does not change your may be able to access to own firearms under federal or state law. However, the same felony that causes TSA denial may already affect your gun rights under other laws.