The basic path: explore through the official TSA website, pay the fee, and schedule an in-person appointment

You sign up for TSA PreCheck by going to the official TSA PreCheck enrollment website at universalenroll.dhs.gov, creating an account, filling out your background information, paying the $78 or $85 fee (depending on how long you want the membership), and then scheduling an appointment at a local enrollment center to have your fingerprints taken and identity verified. The whole process takes about 15 minutes online, but the in-person appointment is required and cannot be skipped.

The fee covers five years of membership. After you complete the online portion and pay, you'll receive a confirmation number. You then use that number to book your appointment at one of the enrollment centers across the country. Most appointments are available within a few weeks, though some busy locations may have longer waits.

Key Takeaways

  • Start at universalenroll.dhs.gov, not a third-party site, to avoid paying extra fees or giving your information to the wrong place.
  • The online process takes about 15 minutes and asks for your personal details, travel history, and background information.
  • You must pay the fee ($78 or $85 for five years) before you can schedule your in-person appointment.
  • The in-person appointment is required and involves fingerprinting and identity verification at an enrollment center near you.
  • After your appointment, approval usually takes a few days to a few weeks, and you'll receive your Known Traveler Number (KTN) by email.

Step-by-step: what happens when you go to the enrollment website

When you arrive at universalenroll.dhs.gov, you'll see a button to create a new account or sign in if you already have one. Click the button to start a new enrollment. You'll be asked to enter your email address and create a password. The site will send you a confirmation email—click the link in that email to verify your address.

Once your email is confirmed, you log back in and begin filling out the process form. This is where you enter your legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and driver's license or passport information. You'll also answer questions about your citizenship, any criminal history, and whether you've ever been denied entry to the United States or had a visa revoked. Answer these questions honestly—the TSA conducts a background check, and lying on the form can result in denial and a fee you won't get back.

The form also asks about your travel patterns and whether you've traveled to certain countries. This is standard vetting information. Once you finish the form, review it carefully before submitting, because you cannot edit it after submission.

Paying the fee and what it covers

After you submit your process, you'll be taken to a payment page. The standard fee is $78 for a five-year membership. Some enrollment centers or programs may charge $85 if they're part of a combined program (like Global Entry, which includes PreCheck). You can pay by credit card, debit card, or electronic check. The payment is processed when ready, and you'll receive a receipt with a confirmation number.

The $78 covers five years of TSA PreCheck membership. You do not need to renew during those five years. When your membership is close to expiring, the TSA will send you an email letting you know you can renew. Renewal is cheaper than the initial fee—usually around $70 to $85 depending on the program.

Scheduling your in-person appointment at an enrollment center

After you pay, you'll be directed to a scheduling page where you can search for enrollment centers near you by zip code or city. The site shows you available appointment times at each location. Most centers offer appointments on weekdays and some on weekends. Pick a time that works for you and confirm the appointment. You'll receive a confirmation email with the date, time, location, and a list of documents to bring.

Bring your valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last month). Some centers may ask for additional documents, so check your confirmation email for the specific list for your location.

If you need to reschedule, you can do so through the same website using your confirmation number. If you miss your appointment without rescheduling, you may lose your fee, so mark the date on your calendar.

What happens at your appointment

When you arrive at the enrollment center, a staff member will verify your identity using the documents you brought. They'll ask you to confirm the information you entered online and may ask follow-up questions about your background or travel history. This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

You'll then have your fingerprints taken digitally. This is a standard part of the background check process. The fingerprints are sent to the FBI and other federal agencies to check for any criminal history or security concerns. The whole appointment typically takes 15 to 20 minutes from start to finish.

After your appointment, you don't need to do anything else. The TSA will review your background check results. If everything clears, you'll receive an email with your Known Traveler Number (KTN)—a nine-digit code you use when booking flights. This usually happens within a few days to a few weeks, depending on how busy the background check system is.

What to do if your process is denied or delayed

If the TSA denies your process, you'll receive an email explaining the reason. Common reasons include criminal history, immigration issues, or inconsistencies in your process. You have the right to request reconsideration. The denial email will include instructions on how to appeal and what additional information you can submit.

If your background check is taking longer than expected, you can contact the TSA PreCheck customer service line at 1-855-347-8371. They can tell you the status of your process and whether there's anything holding up the process. Do not call the enrollment center directly—they cannot access your process status.

Using your Known Traveler Number when you book flights

Once you receive your KTN by email, you can start using it when ready. When you book a flight on an airline website or through a travel agent, there's usually a field for your Known Traveler Number. Enter your nine-digit KTN in that field. Make sure it's entered correctly, because if it's wrong or missing, you won't get PreCheck benefits at the airport.

Your KTN is also printed on your TSA PreCheck card if you request one (some people just use the number without the physical card). The card is optional and takes a few weeks to arrive by mail, but the number itself is what matters at the airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a passport instead of a driver's license at my appointment?

Yes. A valid U.S. passport, passport card, or enhanced driver's license all work as your primary ID. You still need to bring proof of your Social Security number and proof of your current address.

What if I move before my five-year membership expires?

Your TSA PreCheck membership follows you—it's tied to your Known Traveler Number, not your address. Update your address in your TSA PreCheck account online if you move, but you don't need to renew or reschedule anything.

Do I have to use my real name on my TSA PreCheck if I go by a nickname?

Yes. Your TSA PreCheck must match the name on your government-issued ID and the name you use when booking flights. If your legal name is different from the name on your ID, bring documents showing the legal name change (marriage certificate, court order, etc.) to your appointment.

What happens if I don't show up for my appointment?

If you miss your appointment without rescheduling at least 24 hours in advance, you typically lose your fee. You would need to pay again and schedule a new appointment. Some enrollment centers may be lenient if you contact them when ready, so call the center directly if you miss your slot.

Can I explore for TSA PreCheck if I have a criminal record?

It depends on the offense. Minor offenses may not disqualify you, but serious crimes, drug convictions, or immigration violations usually do. The TSA reviews each case individually. If you're unsure, you can still explore—the worst outcome is denial and loss of your fee. You can also contact TSA customer service at 1-855-347-8371 to ask about your specific situation before you explore.