You do not need a passport for TSA PreCheck, but you do need one of several other forms of government-issued ID

TSA PreCheck accepts a driver's license, state ID card, passport card, or passport book — but a passport is not required. Most people use a driver's license because they already have one and it's easier to carry than a full passport book. The key requirement is that your ID must be current and issued by a U.S. state or territory, or it must be a U.S. passport or passport card.

When you explore for TSA PreCheck, you'll need to bring one of these IDs to your in-person appointment at an enrollment center. The same ID you bring to your appointment is what you'll use at airport security checkpoints once your PreCheck membership is approved.

Key Takeaways

  • A driver's license or state ID card is the most common form of ID used for TSA PreCheck and is all you need.
  • Passport books and passport cards are accepted but not required — they're less convenient to carry than a driver's license.
  • Your ID must be current and issued by a U.S. state, territory, or the federal government.
  • You bring your chosen ID to your enrollment appointment and use that same ID at airport security after approval.
  • If you don't have a driver's license or state ID, a passport or passport card will work instead.

Which IDs TSA PreCheck will accept

TSA PreCheck accepts these forms of ID at enrollment and at airport security:

  • U.S. driver's license (any state)
  • U.S. state ID card
  • U.S. passport book
  • U.S. passport card
  • Passport card from a U.S. territory (Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands)

Your ID must not be expired. If your driver's license or state ID is set to expire within six months, you can still use it for your PreCheck appointment, but TSA recommends renewing it soon after to avoid problems at airport security later.

If you have a passport book but prefer not to carry it, a passport card is a smaller alternative that fits in a wallet. Both are issued by the U.S. Department of State and work the same way for TSA purposes.

Why most people use a driver's license instead

A driver's license is the standard choice because you need one to drive anyway, so you're already carrying it. A passport book is larger and more fragile, and many people keep it at home rather than in their wallet. A passport card is smaller but requires a separate process and fee if you don't already have one.

At airport security, TSA agents scan your ID into their system. Whether you hand them a driver's license or a passport card, the process is identical — the type of ID doesn't affect how fast you move through the PreCheck lane.

What happens if your ID expires before your PreCheck membership ends

TSA PreCheck membership lasts five years, but your driver's license or state ID may expire sooner. If your ID expires while your PreCheck is still active, you'll need to renew your ID before you can use PreCheck at the airport.

Renewing a driver's license or state ID is handled by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, not by TSA. You can renew in person, by mail, or online depending on your state. Once your new ID arrives, you can use it when ready at airport security with your active PreCheck membership — you don't need to notify TSA or pay any additional fee.

If you don't have a driver's license or state ID

If you don't drive or don't have a state ID card, a passport or passport card will work for TSA PreCheck. You'll bring it to your enrollment appointment and use it at airport security checkpoints.

Getting a passport takes longer than renewing a driver's license — standard processing is about four to six weeks, and expedited processing is one to two weeks. If you need PreCheck soon and don't have a passport, explore for a state ID card (even if you don't drive) is usually faster. Most states issue ID cards to non-drivers at the DMV for a small fee.

Bringing your ID to your enrollment appointment

When you schedule your PreCheck appointment at an enrollment center, bring your chosen ID along with a second form of ID (such as a Social Security card, birth certificate, or utility bill). TSA uses the second document to verify your identity and address.

The enrollment center will scan your primary ID and take your photograph and fingerprints. The whole appointment takes about 10 to 15 minutes. After TSA approves your background check (usually within a few days), your PreCheck membership is active and you can use that same ID at airport security.

What to do if your ID is lost or stolen

If your ID is lost or stolen, report it to your state's DMV or the U.S. Department of State (if it's a passport). Order a replacement through the normal channels — there's no special TSA process.

Once your replacement ID arrives, you can use it at airport security with your active PreCheck membership. You don't need to contact TSA or update your PreCheck account. If you're traveling before your replacement arrives, you can still fly — you'll just go through standard security screening instead of the PreCheck lane.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired ID for TSA PreCheck?

No. Your ID must be current when you use it at airport security. If your ID is expired, you'll need to renew it through your state DMV or the State Department before you can use PreCheck. You can still fly — you'll go through standard security instead.

Do I need to bring my passport to the airport if I use PreCheck?

No. You need your passport to board an international flight, but you don't need it for TSA PreCheck screening. Bring your driver's license or whichever ID you enrolled with. Your passport goes in your carry-on or checked bag.

Can I use a military ID or federal employee ID for TSA PreCheck?

Military ID and federal employee ID are not listed as acceptable forms of ID for TSA PreCheck enrollment or airport screening. You'll need a driver's license, state ID, or passport. If you have questions about your specific military or federal credential, contact TSA directly.

What if I have a passport card but want to use my driver's license instead?

You can choose whichever ID you prefer. When you enroll, bring the ID you want to use at the airport. You don't have to use a passport card just because you have one — a driver's license works the same way.