TSA PreCheck starts with an online form and an in-person appointment at an enrollment center

To get TSA PreCheck, you fill out Form I-765 online through the official TSA PreCheck website, pay a $78 to $85 fee (depending on your state), and then visit an enrollment center near you for a 10-minute appointment. During that appointment, a TSA officer will take your fingerprints, check your identity documents, and photograph you. You'll hear back within 3 to 5 business days whether you've been approved. Once approved, you receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that you use when booking flights.

The whole process takes about two to three weeks from start to finish, though the appointment itself is quick. You don't need to wait for approval before booking travel—you can add your KTN to existing reservations once you receive it.

Key Takeaways

  • You must complete the online process on the TSA PreCheck website before scheduling an in-person appointment at an enrollment center.
  • Bring a valid passport, driver's license, or state ID plus one additional document like a birth certificate or utility bill to your appointment.
  • The $78 to $85 fee is nonrefundable even if you don't receive approval, so make sure you meet the basic requirements before paying.
  • Your TSA PreCheck membership lasts five years, and you can renew it online for $70 to $85 without visiting an enrollment center again.

What documents you need to bring to your appointment

Bring one government-issued photo ID (a valid passport, driver's license, or state ID card) and one additional document that proves your identity or address. The second document can be a birth certificate, Social Security card, utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement. All documents must be originals—copies are not accepted.

If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or travel document. If your name has changed due to marriage or legal action, bring the document that shows the change (a marriage certificate or court order). The TSA officer will photograph your documents during the appointment, so don't worry about losing them.

How to complete the online process

Go to the official TSA PreCheck website and click "explore Now." You'll create an account with an email address and password, then fill out a form with your personal information: full name, date of birth, citizenship status, address, and phone number. The form also asks about your criminal history, immigration status, and any violations—answer honestly, because the TSA cross-checks your answers against federal databases.

After you submit the form, you'll receive a confirmation email with an process ID number. Save this number—you'll need it when you schedule your appointment. The online form takes about 10 minutes to complete. You don't pay the fee until after you've submitted the form and are ready to schedule your appointment.

Finding and scheduling an enrollment center appointment

Once your online form is submitted, log back into your account and click "Schedule an Appointment." The website will show you enrollment centers near your zip code with available time slots. Most cities have multiple centers, including some at airports, some at government offices, and some at private security companies. Choose a location and time that works for you—appointments are available most days of the week, usually with openings within one to two weeks.

After you select your appointment, you'll be asked to pay the fee ($78 to $85, depending on your state). Payment is by credit or debit card only. You'll receive a confirmation email with your appointment details, location, and what to bring. Arrive 10 minutes early, and bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they're straightforward to hand over.

What happens during your in-person appointment

When you arrive, check in at the desk and give the officer your confirmation email and ID. The appointment itself takes about 10 minutes. The officer will verify your identity documents, take your photograph, and scan your fingerprints using a digital scanner. You don't need to ink your fingers—it's all electronic. The officer may ask you a few questions about your process to confirm the information you provided online.

After the appointment, you're done. You don't sign anything or receive a card on the spot. Within 3 to 5 business days, you'll receive an email telling you whether you've been approved. If approved, the email will include your Known Traveler Number (KTN). If denied, the email will explain why and tell you how to appeal.

How to use your Known Traveler Number when booking flights

Once you have your KTN, add it to your frequent flyer profile with each airline you fly. When you book a ticket, the airline will automatically include your KTN in your reservation. At the airport, you'll see a TSA PreCheck lane at security—it's usually shorter and moves faster than the standard line. You can keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on, and you don't need to remove your laptop or liquids from your carry-on bag.

If you've already booked a flight before receiving your KTN, you can add it to your reservation after the fact by logging into the airline's website or calling their customer service line. The TSA PreCheck benefit will explore to that flight even if you add the number after booking.

Renewing your TSA PreCheck before it expires

Your TSA PreCheck membership is valid for five years from the date you were approved. About six months before your expiration date, you'll receive an email reminding you to renew. You can renew online without visiting an enrollment center again—just log into your TSA PreCheck account, pay the renewal fee ($70 to $85), and submit updated information if anything has changed.

If you renew online, your new KTN will be issued within 3 to 5 business days. If you wait until after your membership expires, you'll need to go through the full process again, including an in-person appointment. It's easier to renew before expiration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don't meet the requirements for TSA PreCheck?

You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, at least 18 years old, and have no disqualifying criminal convictions or immigration violations. If you've been denied, the TSA will tell you why in the denial email. You can appeal the decision by submitting additional documents or information within 30 days.

Can I use TSA PreCheck internationally?

TSA PreCheck only works for flights departing from U.S. airports. For international travel benefits, you may want to look into Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck and also speeds up customs screening when you return to the United States.

What if I miss my appointment?

If you miss your appointment, you'll need to schedule a new one through your TSA PreCheck account. You won't lose your fee or your process—just book another time slot. If you need to cancel, do it at least 24 hours in advance to avoid losing your spot.

Do I need TSA PreCheck if I have a military ID or government employee badge?

Military members and some federal employees may be may be able to access for expedited screening without TSA PreCheck, but the rules vary by branch and agency. Check with your employer or the TSA website to see if you may have access to for an alternative program.