You can change your name on TSA PreCheck through the official TSA website, by mail, or in person at an enrollment center

If your legal name has changed — through marriage, divorce, court order, or any other reason — you need to update it in your TSA PreCheck record. The fastest route is the TSA website itself. You log in to your account, go to your profile, and submit the change with a copy of your legal name-change document. TSA then reviews it and updates your Known Traveler Number (KTN) to match your new name.

The process takes about two weeks from submission. During that time, your old name stays active in the system, so you can still use your PreCheck benefits. Once TSA approves the change, your new name becomes official in their database, and you'll use it when you book flights and check in at the airport.

Key Takeaways

  • Submit your name change through your TSA PreCheck account online with a copy of your legal name-change document — this is the fastest method.
  • You will need an official document that shows your new legal name, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
  • Your PreCheck benefits remain active under your old name while TSA reviews the change, which usually takes about two weeks.
  • If you cannot access your account online, you can mail your request and documents to TSA or visit an enrollment center in person.

What documents you need to change your name

TSA requires an official document that proves your legal name change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order all work. The document must be an original or certified copy — a photocopy or screenshot is not enough. If you don't have the original, you can request a certified copy from the county clerk's office or the court that issued it.

You'll also need your current TSA PreCheck confirmation number or your Known Traveler Number (KTN). Both appear in your account or on your PreCheck card. Have these ready before you start the submission process.

Changing your name online through your TSA account

Go to the official TSA PreCheck website and log in with your username and password. If you don't remember your login, use the "Forgot Password" link to reset it. Once you're in your account, look for the profile or account settings section — the exact wording varies, but it's usually near your name at the top of the page.

Click on the option to update your personal information or edit your profile. Enter your new legal name exactly as it appears on your name-change document. Then upload a clear photo or scan of that document. Make sure the image is readable — blurry or cut-off corners can delay the review. Submit the form and note the confirmation number TSA provides.

You'll receive an email confirming that TSA received your request. Check your email regularly over the next two weeks for updates. TSA will send you another email once the change is approved and your account is updated.

Mailing your name change to TSA

If you cannot or prefer not to use the online method, you can mail your request. Write a letter that includes your full current name, your new legal name, your TSA PreCheck confirmation number or KTN, and your date of birth. Enclose a certified copy of your name-change document.

Mail the package to the TSA PreCheck enrollment center address listed on the official TSA website. Include your return address so TSA can contact you if they need more information. Mailing takes longer than online submission — expect three to four weeks for processing, plus mail delivery time both ways.

Updating your name in person at an enrollment center

You can also visit a TSA PreCheck enrollment center and update your name face-to-face. Bring your original or certified copy of your name-change document and a valid government-issued ID that shows your current name. The enrollment agent will review your documents, update your account on the spot, and issue you a new PreCheck card with your new name if needed.

Find an enrollment center near you on the TSA website by entering your zip code. Many are located in airports, but some are in shopping centers or government offices. Call ahead to confirm hours and whether you need an appointment, since policies vary by location.

What happens to your PreCheck benefits during the change

Your TSA PreCheck benefits do not stop while your name change is being processed. You can continue to use your Known Traveler Number (KTN) at airport security and when booking flights. The system recognizes your old name and your KTN together, so you'll still get through PreCheck lanes.

Once TSA approves the change, your new name becomes the official name in their system. From that point forward, use your new name when you book flights and check in. Your KTN stays the same — only the name attached to it changes.

If your name change is taking longer than expected

If more than three weeks have passed since you submitted your request online and you haven't heard back, log into your account and check the status. Sometimes TSA needs additional information or a clearer copy of your document. If the status shows a problem, the message will tell you what to do next.

If you submitted by mail and haven't received a response after four weeks, contact the TSA PreCheck enrollment center that serves your area. Have your confirmation number or KTN ready. They can look up your request and tell you where it stands in the review process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a new PreCheck card after I change my name?

Not necessarily. Your KTN remains the same and works with your new name in the TSA system. However, if you want a physical card that shows your new name, you can request one from the enrollment center. Some travelers keep their old card as a backup since the KTN is what matters at security.

What if I changed my name years ago but never updated TSA PreCheck?

Submit your name change now using the same process — online, by mail, or in person. TSA will review your legal name-change document and update your account. Your PreCheck benefits will continue to work during the review, so there's no rush, but updating it prevents confusion at the airport.

Can I change my name if my PreCheck is expired?

Yes. You can update your name even if your PreCheck membership has expired. However, once you renew your membership, make sure the new name is already in the system so your renewal goes through without delays. If you're renewing soon, update your name first, then renew.

What if my name change document is from another country?

TSA accepts name-change documents from other countries, but they must be official certified copies. If the document is not in English, bring a certified English translation along with the original. Contact your nearest enrollment center before you submit to confirm they have received documents like yours before.

How long does the name change take if I do it in person?

In-person updates are usually processed when ready. The enrollment agent will update your account while you're there, and you'll leave with confirmation that your new name is in the system. If you request a new physical card, that may take a few days to arrive by mail.