Where to Find Your KTN Number

Your Known Traveler Number (KTN) is a nine-character code assigned to you when you enroll in TSA PreCheck. You can find it in three places: your TSA PreCheck approval email, your trusted traveler card, or your TSA account online.

The easiest method is to log into your TSA account at tsa.gov/precheck. Click "Manage process" and your KTN will appear on the main page. If you enrolled in person at an enrollment center, you received an approval email with the number in the subject line or body — search your email inbox for "TSA PreCheck" or "KTN".

If you have your physical TSA PreCheck card in hand, the KTN is printed on the front, usually below your name or in the upper right corner. The card itself is your proof of enrollment, so you can reference it anytime you need the number.

Key Takeaways

  • Your KTN appears in your TSA PreCheck approval email, which you received after your enrollment was processed.
  • You can view your KTN by logging into your TSA account at tsa.gov/precheck and selecting "Manage process."
  • Your physical TSA PreCheck card displays your KTN on the front, making it a quick reference if you have the card nearby.
  • You need your KTN when booking flights so airlines can link your reservation to your PreCheck status.

Using Your KTN When You Book a Flight

When you purchase an airline ticket, enter your KTN in the "Known Traveler Number" field during checkout. This field appears on most airline websites and is sometimes labeled "TSA PreCheck Number" or "Trusted Traveler Number." The exact location varies by airline, but it is usually in the passenger information or frequent flyer section of the booking form.

If you forget to add your KTN during booking, you can usually add it later through your airline account or by contacting the airline directly. Some airlines allow you to add it up to 24 hours before departure. Without your KTN in the reservation, the airline cannot link your PreCheck status to your boarding pass, and you will not receive the PreCheck benefit at security.

What to Do If You Cannot Find Your KTN

If you cannot locate your approval email and do not have your card, the TSA account portal is your fastest option. Go to tsa.gov/precheck, select "Sign In," and use your email address and password. If you do not remember your password, use the "Forgot Password" link to reset it. Once logged in, your KTN will be visible on your process status page.

If you enrolled through a third-party enrollment provider (such as Idemia, Tsa, or Clear), you may also be able to retrieve your KTN from that provider's website or app. Check your enrollment confirmation email to see which provider processed your process and whether they offer a portal where you can view your information.

If you still cannot find your number and your PreCheck enrollment is current, contact the TSA directly at 1-855-347-8371 (the TSA PreCheck customer service line). Have your driver's license or passport number ready, as the TSA will verify your identity before providing your KTN over the phone.

When Your KTN Appears on Your Boarding Pass

Once you enter your KTN during booking, it should appear on your boarding pass — either printed or digital — as a confirmation that your PreCheck status is active. Look for the letters "TSA Pre✓" printed on your boarding pass or displayed in your airline app. This indicator tells you that you are cleared to use the expedited security lane at the airport.

If your boarding pass does not show "TSA Pre✓" even though you entered your KTN, contact your airline before you travel. The airline may need to reissue your boarding pass or verify that your PreCheck enrollment is still valid. Arriving at the airport without the PreCheck indicator on your pass means you will go through standard security screening, not the faster PreCheck lane.

Keeping Your KTN Safe and Accessible

Your KTN is not sensitive information in the way a Social Security number is, but you should keep it in a safe place for straightforward reference. Many travelers take a photo of their TSA PreCheck card and store it in their phone, or they save their KTN in a notes app or password manager. This way, you have it available when booking flights or if an airline asks for it at check-in.

You do not need to memorize your KTN, but having it readily available saves time during the booking process. If you travel frequently, consider storing it in your airline frequent flyer profiles as well — many airlines allow you to save your KTN in your account settings so it auto-fills on future bookings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my KTN is not showing up on my boarding pass?

First, verify that you entered the correct nine-character number during booking. Then check your airline account to confirm the KTN is linked to your reservation. If it is linked but still not appearing on your boarding pass, contact your airline — they may need to reissue it. You can also verify your PreCheck status is current by logging into your TSA account.

Can I use someone else's KTN?

No. Your KTN is tied to your identity and enrollment. Using another person's number will not work because the TSA and airlines match the KTN to the name on your ticket. Each person who wants PreCheck benefits must enroll separately and receive their own KTN.

Do I need my KTN if I have a TSA PreCheck card?

You need your KTN for airline bookings, not for the physical card itself. The card is your proof of enrollment at the airport, but airlines require the KTN in your reservation to set up PreCheck benefits on your boarding pass. You can reference the KTN from your card when booking.

What if my PreCheck enrollment expired?

If your enrollment has expired, your KTN will no longer work for PreCheck benefits, even if you enter it during booking. You will need to renew your enrollment through tsa.gov/precheck. Once renewed, you will receive a new KTN or confirmation that your existing number is reactivated.