You don't get a TSA number—you get one through a trusted traveler program

The TSA itself does not issue a number. Instead, you enroll in one of several trusted traveler programs—TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI—and that program gives you a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that you then provide to airlines when you book. The TSA uses that number to flag your reservation, and you move through a faster security line at the airport.

Each program costs money, requires an in-person appointment at an enrollment center, and takes several weeks to process. TSA PreCheck is the most common choice for domestic travel and costs $78 to $85 for five years. Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck benefits plus expedited customs screening when you return to the U.S., costs $100 for five years.

Key Takeaways

  • You obtain a Known Traveler Number by enrolling in TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI—the TSA does not issue numbers directly.
  • TSA PreCheck costs $78 to $85 for five years and requires an in-person appointment at an enrollment center and a background check.
  • After you receive your Known Traveler Number, you enter it when booking flights so the TSA flags your reservation for PreCheck screening.
  • Processing takes four to six weeks after your appointment, though you may receive a temporary number when ready that works right away.
  • You can use your Known Traveler Number on any airline that participates in the program, which includes all major U.S. carriers.

Enroll in TSA PreCheck or another trusted traveler program

Start by deciding which program fits your travel. TSA PreCheck is for domestic U.S. travel. Global Entry covers the same PreCheck benefits plus faster customs and immigration screening when you return to the U.S. from abroad. NEXUS and SENTRI are for frequent travelers to Canada and Mexico, respectively, and include PreCheck benefits as well.

Go to the program's official website—for TSA PreCheck, that is tsa.gov/precheck. For Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI, visit cbp.gov/trusted-traveler-programs. Create an account, fill out the background information form, and pay the fee. You will then be prompted to schedule an in-person appointment at an enrollment center near you.

The appointment takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Bring a valid passport or driver's license, proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident status, and your Social Security number. The enrollment officer will take your fingerprints, verify your information, and conduct a background check. You will walk out with a receipt.

Receive your Known Traveler Number

After your appointment, processing typically takes four to six weeks. You will receive an email or letter with your Known Traveler Number once the background check clears. Some programs issue a temporary number when ready after your appointment that you can use right away while the full approval is pending.

Write down your Known Traveler Number and keep it somewhere you can find it quickly—you will need it every time you book a flight. The number is usually nine digits and appears on your approval letter and in your online account.

Enter your Known Traveler Number when you book flights

When you purchase a ticket online or over the phone, the airline will ask for your Known Traveler Number. Enter it exactly as it appears on your approval letter. The airline will add it to your reservation, and the TSA will see it when you check in.

If you forget to enter it at booking, you can usually add it later through your airline's website or by calling the airline before you arrive at the airport. Some airlines let you store your Known Traveler Number in your frequent flyer profile so it fills in automatically on future bookings.

Use your number at airport security

On the day of your flight, arrive at the airport as you normally would. When you reach the security checkpoint, look for the TSA PreCheck lane—it is usually marked with a sign and is separate from the standard security line. Show your boarding pass and ID to the TSA officer. Because your Known Traveler Number is on your reservation, you will be directed into the PreCheck lane.

In the PreCheck lane, you can leave your shoes, belt, and light jacket on. You can keep your laptop and liquids in your carry-on bag. The screening is faster because fewer items require removal and inspection. Not all airports have dedicated PreCheck lanes; at smaller airports, PreCheck passengers are straightforward screened with less stringent requirements in the standard line.

Renew your Known Traveler Number before it expires

Your Known Traveler Number is valid for five years from the date of your enrollment appointment. About six months before expiration, you will receive a notice from the program. You can renew online without scheduling another in-person appointment—you straightforward pay the renewal fee and submit updated information. Renewal takes about two to four weeks.

If your Known Traveler Number expires and you do not renew, you will no longer receive PreCheck screening. You can still fly, but you will go through standard security screening.

Troubleshoot if your Known Traveler Number is not working

If you entered your Known Traveler Number at booking but the TSA PreCheck lane is not available at your airport, check your boarding pass. It should show "TSA Pre" or a TSA PreCheck indicator. If it does not, contact your airline before you arrive at the airport—there may have been a data entry error.

If your boarding pass shows the indicator but you are still sent to the standard security line, speak to the TSA officer at the checkpoint. Occasionally the system does not sync properly, and the officer can manually verify your status. Bring your Known Traveler Number and your approval letter as backup.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does TSA PreCheck cost?

TSA PreCheck costs $78 to $85 for five years, depending on the enrollment center. Global Entry costs $100 for five years and includes TSA PreCheck benefits. Some credit cards reimburse the fee, so check your card's benefits before paying out of pocket.

Can I use my Known Traveler Number on international flights?

TSA PreCheck applies only to domestic U.S. flights. If you fly internationally, you will not receive PreCheck screening on the outbound flight. Global Entry includes expedited customs and immigration screening when you return to the U.S., but not PreCheck on international departures.

What if I lose my Known Traveler Number?

Log into your account on the program's website—tsa.gov/precheck for TSA PreCheck—and your Known Traveler Number will be displayed. You can also call the program's customer service line or check your original approval letter. Your number does not change unless you enroll in a new program.

Do I need a Known Traveler Number for every family member?

Yes, each person who wants to use PreCheck screening must enroll separately and receive their own Known Traveler Number. Children can enroll, and some programs offer reduced fees for minors. Each family member enters their own number when booking.

What happens if I move or change my name?

Log into your account and update your information. For a legal name change, you may need to submit a copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Contact the program's customer service to confirm what documents they need before submitting changes.