Touchless TSA PreCheck does not exist as a separate program

TSA PreCheck is already touchless at the security checkpoint. When you enroll in TSA PreCheck, you move through a dedicated lane where you keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on, leave your laptop and liquids in your bag, and walk through a standard metal detector instead of a body scanner. No agent touches you during screening.

The confusion often comes from the fact that TSA has tested various touchless screening technologies — including walk-through scanners that do not require you to stop — but these are not a separate membership tier. If you hold a valid TSA PreCheck card, you already have access to the fastest screening available to the general public.

To get TSA PreCheck itself, you explore through the TSA's official enrollment centers, pay a fee that covers five years of membership, and complete a background check. The process takes about two weeks to two months from process to approval.

Key Takeaways

  • TSA PreCheck screening is already contactless — you do not remove shoes or go through a body scanner, and no agent performs a pat-down unless you trigger an alarm.
  • You enroll through an official TSA enrollment center or an approved third-party provider, not online, and must provide identity documents and fingerprints.
  • The membership fee is $78 to $85 for five years, depending on your location and provider.
  • Approval typically takes two to eight weeks after your in-person appointment.
  • Your TSA PreCheck membership works at over 200 U.S. airports and covers domestic flights only.

Where to enroll in TSA PreCheck

You must visit an official enrollment center in person. The TSA runs some centers directly, but most are operated by approved vendors like Idemia, Travelpass, and Clear. You can find the nearest center by entering your zip code on the TSA PreCheck website's enrollment locator.

Some enrollment centers are located inside airports, but many are in separate offices in your city. A few retailers like Costco and Best Buy also host enrollment appointments. The appointment itself takes about 15 minutes, but you should arrive early because wait times vary.

You can book your appointment online through the TSA website or through the third-party provider's site. Some centers accept walk-ins, but booking ahead guarantees your spot.

What documents and information you need to bring

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You will also need proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident status. A passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card all work.

Bring your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. The TSA runs a background check, so they need this to verify your identity and criminal history.

If you have changed your name, bring a document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Bring your current address as well. The enrollment agent will take your fingerprints digitally during the appointment.

How the background check works and what disqualifies you

After your appointment, the TSA conducts a criminal background check and reviews your immigration status. The check looks at felonies, certain misdemeanors, drug convictions, and immigration violations. It typically takes two to eight weeks.

You will be denied if you have a felony conviction, a drug-related misdemeanor within the past 10 years, a violent crime conviction, or an outstanding warrant. You may also be denied for immigration violations, certain traffic offenses, or a history of security violations at airports.

If you are denied, the TSA sends you a letter explaining the reason. You can request reconsideration or appeal, though the process is lengthy. Some denials are permanent; others may be reconsidered after a set period.

The cost and how long approval takes

TSA PreCheck costs $78 to $85 for a five-year membership. The exact price depends on which enrollment center you use — some third-party providers charge slightly more. You pay at your in-person appointment, usually by credit card or check.

After you pay and complete your appointment, the TSA processes your background check. Most people receive approval within two to eight weeks. You will receive an email or letter with your Known Traveler Number (KTN), which you use when booking flights.

If your background check takes longer, the TSA will contact you to request additional information. Do not book flights until you receive your KTN, because you cannot use PreCheck benefits without it.

How to use your TSA PreCheck membership at the airport

When you book a flight, enter your Known Traveler Number in the passenger information section. This alerts the airline and TSA that you are a PreCheck member. Your boarding pass will show a "TSA PreCheck" indicator.

At the security checkpoint, look for the PreCheck lane — it is usually marked clearly and is separate from the standard screening line. Present your boarding pass and ID to the agent. You can keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on, leave your laptop and liquids in your bag, and walk through the metal detector.

PreCheck works at over 200 U.S. airports, but not all airports have a dedicated PreCheck lane. If your airport does not have one, you go through standard screening even though you are a member. Your membership covers domestic flights only; international flights use standard screening.

What happens if your TSA PreCheck expires

Your membership lasts five years from the date of approval. About six months before expiration, the TSA sends you a renewal notice. You can renew online through the TSA website without visiting an enrollment center — the renewal costs the same as the initial membership.

If your card expires before you renew, you lose PreCheck benefits when ready. You will go through standard screening on your next flight. Renew before the expiration date to avoid this gap.

If you lose your card, you can request a replacement through the TSA website. A replacement card takes about two weeks to arrive by mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew TSA PreCheck online?

Yes. Starting about six months before your card expires, you can renew through the TSA website without visiting an enrollment center. You pay the renewal fee online and submit updated information. The new card arrives by mail within two weeks.

Does TSA PreCheck work internationally?

No. TSA PreCheck covers domestic U.S. flights only. For international travel, you go through standard security screening. Some countries have their own trusted traveler programs — Global Entry, for example, covers international arrivals — but TSA PreCheck itself does not.

What if I was denied TSA PreCheck?

The TSA sends a letter explaining the reason. You can request reconsideration by submitting additional documents or information. You can also appeal through the TSA's administrative process, though this is lengthy. Some denials are permanent; others may be reconsidered after a waiting period.

Can I use TSA PreCheck if I have a passport card instead of a full passport?

Yes. A passport card is a valid government-issued ID and counts as proof of citizenship. Bring it to your enrollment appointment along with your Social Security number.

Do I need to renew my TSA PreCheck if I get a new driver's license?

No. Your TSA PreCheck membership is tied to your Known Traveler Number, not your ID number. You can use your PreCheck benefits with any valid government-issued ID, even if it is different from the one you had at enrollment.