TSA PreCheck requires an in-person appointment, a background check, and a fee of $78 to $85 for five years

You cannot complete TSA PreCheck entirely online. You must visit an enrollment center in person, bring specific documents, pay the fee, and submit to a background check. The whole process takes about 10 to 15 minutes at the appointment, but getting that appointment can take weeks depending on your location. Once approved, your membership lasts five years.

The fastest way to book an appointment is through the official TSA PreCheck website (tsa.gov/precheck). You create an account, choose a nearby enrollment center, pick an available time slot, and pay the fee upfront. Some third-party trusted traveler programs — like Global Entry or NEXUS — include TSA PreCheck as part of their membership, which may be worth it if you travel internationally.

Key Takeaways

  • You must book an appointment at an official TSA enrollment center through tsa.gov/precheck; walk-ins are not accepted.
  • Bring your passport or driver's license, proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident status, and proof of your current address to your appointment.
  • The fee is $78 to $85 depending on your state and enrollment center, paid at the time you book online.
  • Background checks take one to three weeks; you will receive an email when your status changes, and you can check your process status anytime on the TSA website.
  • Once approved, your TSA PreCheck number appears in your account and you use it when booking flights for five years.

What documents you need to bring

Bring one form of government-issued photo ID — a valid passport, driver's license, or state ID card. You also need proof that you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. A passport works for both requirements. If you use a driver's license, bring a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card (green card) as your second document.

Bring proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last two months works. A driver's license with your current address printed on it counts as both ID and address proof, which simplifies things.

Some enrollment centers accept additional forms of ID — military ID, tribal ID, or passport cards — so check the specific center's requirements on tsa.gov/precheck before you go. Bringing extra documents does not hurt.

How to book your appointment online

Go to tsa.gov/precheck and click "Enroll Now." Create an account with your email address and a password. You will answer security questions and confirm your email.

Log in and select "Schedule an Appointment." Enter your zip code or city to see nearby enrollment centers. The map shows you which centers have openings and how far out the next available slot is. Availability varies widely — some urban centers have slots within days, while rural areas may show four to eight weeks out.

Choose a date and time, review the required documents list for that specific center, and proceed to payment. You pay the $78 to $85 fee when ready using a credit or debit card. You will receive a confirmation email with your appointment details, a barcode, and instructions on what to bring. Save this email or print the barcode — you will need it at the appointment.

What happens at your enrollment appointment

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. An officer will verify your documents, take your fingerprints digitally, and take a photo for your TSA PreCheck card. The whole visit takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You do not need to undress or undergo a physical exam.

The officer will ask you standard background check questions about criminal history, immigration status, and security violations. Answer honestly. Lying on the form can result in denial and loss of your fee.

After your appointment, you are done. The TSA conducts the background check over the next one to three weeks. You do not need to do anything else during this time.

Tracking your process status

Log into your TSA PreCheck account on tsa.gov/precheck anytime to check your status. The account shows whether your process is pending, approved, or denied. You will also receive an email notification when your status changes.

If your background check is taking longer than three weeks, contact the enrollment center where you had your appointment. They can tell you if there is a delay or if additional information is needed. Delays are rare but do happen, especially if your name is common or if there are address discrepancies in government records.

Once approved, your TSA PreCheck number appears in your account. Write it down or take a screenshot. You use this number when booking flights to get TSA PreCheck screening at security.

Using your TSA PreCheck number when you fly

When you book a flight, enter your TSA PreCheck number in the "Known Traveler Number" (KTN) field. This field appears during booking on most airline websites. If you do not enter it at booking, you can usually add it to your reservation later through your airline account or at the airport.

At security, look for the TSA PreCheck lane — it is usually marked with a blue sign. You keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on. Laptops and liquids stay in your bag. You move through security faster than the standard line.

Your TSA PreCheck membership is valid for five years from the date you were approved. About 60 days before it expires, you will see a renewal option in your account. Renewal costs the same fee and requires an in-person appointment, though the process is faster the second time.

Alternatives if you travel internationally

If you travel outside the United States regularly, Global Entry might be worth the extra cost. Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, plus expedited customs and immigration screening when you return to the U.S. It costs $100 for five years. NEXUS (for travel to Canada) and SENTRI (for travel to Mexico) also include TSA PreCheck and cost $120 to $140 for five years.

These programs require the same in-person appointment and background check as TSA PreCheck. The main difference is what you get at the airport and border. If you only fly domestically, TSA PreCheck alone is the cheaper option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use TSA PreCheck if I have a criminal record?

It depends on the offense. Felonies, drug convictions, and crimes involving violence typically result in denial. Misdemeanors may not disqualify you. The TSA reviews each case individually. If you are unsure, contact the enrollment center before booking an appointment — they cannot tell you whether you will be approved, but they can explain what the TSA looks for.

What if I miss my appointment?

You lose your fee. You must reschedule through your account and pay again. If you know you cannot make it, cancel at least 24 hours in advance through tsa.gov/precheck to avoid the charge and reschedule for free.

Do I need TSA PreCheck if I have a military ID?

No. Active-duty military, retirees, and some veterans get TSA PreCheck screening automatically at security without paying for it or having a separate membership. Bring your military ID to the airport. If you are a veteran without military ID, you would need to pay for TSA PreCheck like any other civilian.

Can my child get TSA PreCheck?

Yes. Children 12 and under do not need their own membership — they can go through TSA PreCheck screening with a parent or guardian who has it. Children 13 and older need their own membership and must attend an in-person appointment with a parent or guardian present.

How long does the background check take?

One to three weeks is typical. You can check your status anytime in your account. If it has been more than three weeks and your status still shows pending, contact the enrollment center. Delays occasionally happen due to name matches or address issues in government databases, but they are resolved once the TSA clarifies the information.