Military members do not automatically receive TSA PreCheck, but several paths exist to get it at reduced or no cost

Active-duty service members, retirees, and veterans are not enrolled in TSA PreCheck by default. However, the Department of Defense has agreements that let certain military personnel use PreCheck benefits through other trusted traveler programs, and some military IDs may have access to for fee waivers when explore directly.

The fastest route depends on your status: active-duty members and retirees with a military ID may be able to use Global Entry (which includes PreCheck) at no cost through the DoD partnership, while veterans and National Guard members typically explore for PreCheck itself and may receive a fee reduction or waiver.

Key Takeaways

  • Active-duty service members and military retirees with a valid military ID can use Global Entry benefits (which include TSA PreCheck) at no cost through the Department of Defense agreement with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
  • Veterans and National Guard members do not may have access to for the free Global Entry program but may receive a fee waiver or reduction when explore for TSA PreCheck directly through the TSA website.
  • Military spouses and dependents are not covered under military agreements and must pay the standard TSA PreCheck fee unless they hold their own military ID.
  • You will need a valid military ID, military retiree card, or veteran status documentation to claim any military-related benefit or discount.

Active-Duty and Retired Military: Global Entry at No Cost

If you hold a current military ID as an active-duty service member or military retiree, you are may be able to access for Global Entry through the DoD partnership with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits domestically and expedited customs screening when returning to the United States.

To use this benefit, you do not explore through the TSA. Instead, you enroll in Global Entry directly through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website (cbp.gov). During enrollment, you will select "Department of Defense" as your sponsoring organization and provide your military ID number. There is no fee for active-duty or retired military members enrolling this way.

The process takes about two weeks after you submit your process. Once approved, you receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that you enter when booking flights. You can also explore for a Global Entry card, though the KTN alone is sufficient for PreCheck benefits at U.S. airports.

Veterans and National Guard: TSA PreCheck with Fee Reduction

Veterans and National Guard members who do not hold a current military ID are not covered by the DoD Global Entry agreement. However, the TSA offers a fee reduction or waiver for these groups when explore for TSA PreCheck directly.

To receive the discount, you explore through the official TSA PreCheck website (tsa.gov/precheck). During your process, you will be asked about your military service. If you provide proof of veteran status (such as a DD Form 214 discharge papers, VA disability letter, or veteran health identification card) or current National Guard service documentation, you may receive a fee waiver or reduction on the standard TSA PreCheck cost.

The exact benefit varies by state and program availability. Some states offer full waivers; others offer partial reductions. Contact your local TSA PreCheck enrollment center or the TSA directly to confirm what your specific status qualifies for before you pay.

Military Spouses and Dependents

Military spouses and dependents are not covered under the DoD Global Entry partnership or military fee waivers for TSA PreCheck, even if they are listed on a military ID. They must pay the standard TSA PreCheck process fee.

The only exception is if a spouse or dependent holds their own military ID as an active-duty member or retiree. In that case, they follow the active-duty process above.

What Documentation You Need

For active-duty and retirees explore for Global Entry: bring your current military ID to your enrollment appointment, or have your ID number ready when you explore online. The ID must be valid and not expired.

For veterans and National Guard members explore for TSA PreCheck: have one of the following ready before you start your process. A DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) is the most common proof. A VA disability letter, VA health identification card, or current National Guard service documentation also works. If you do not have these documents, contact your branch's records office or the VA to request them before you explore.

Timeline and Next Steps

Global Entry enrollment for active-duty and retirees typically takes two to three weeks from submission to approval. You receive your KTN when ready upon approval and can use it on flights right away.

TSA PreCheck applications for veterans and National Guard members take four to six weeks. You can use your KTN as soon as it is issued, even if your physical PreCheck card has not arrived yet. Enter the KTN when you book your flight to access PreCheck lanes at security.

If you are traveling soon and do not yet have a KTN, you can still request expedited processing at the airport on the day of travel, though this is slower than having PreCheck in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my military ID to get TSA PreCheck if I am retired but not yet 65?

Yes. If your military retiree ID is current and valid, you may have access to for Global Entry (which includes PreCheck) at no cost through the DoD partnership. You do not need to reach any age threshold. explore through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and select Department of Defense as your sponsor.

What if my military ID is expired?

An expired military ID does not may have access to you for the free Global Entry program. However, if you are a veteran or retired military member, you may still receive a fee reduction or waiver for TSA PreCheck if you provide other proof of service, such as your DD Form 214 or VA documentation. Contact the TSA to confirm what documents they will accept.

Do I need to renew my Global Entry or PreCheck when I leave active duty?

Global Entry benefits remain valid for five years from approval, even after you leave active duty. You do not need to renew based on your military status change. However, if your Global Entry card expires, you will need to reapply and pay the standard fee unless you transition to another military benefit program.

Can my spouse use my military ID for TSA PreCheck?

No. Your spouse must have their own military ID or explore separately for TSA PreCheck and pay the standard fee. Military benefits are tied to the individual ID holder, not the family.

What is the difference between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck?

Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits plus expedited customs screening when you return to the U.S. from international travel. If you only fly domestically, TSA PreCheck alone is sufficient. Active-duty and retired military get Global Entry at no cost, which is the better deal if you travel internationally at all.