TSA PreCheck with Touchless ID uses facial recognition instead of fingerprints

TSA PreCheck Touchless ID is a way to complete your TSA PreCheck background check using facial recognition technology instead of being fingerprinted in person. When you enroll, you take a photo of your face and a photo of your ID document using your phone or computer. TSA's system compares your face to your ID photo and to government databases to verify your identity. If approved, you get the same TSA PreCheck benefits—shorter security lines, keeping shoes and belt on, leaving laptops in your bag—without ever visiting an enrollment center.

This option launched in 2023 and is available through the official TSA PreCheck enrollment website. It costs the same as in-person enrollment: $78 to $85 depending on your state, and the membership lasts five years. The main difference is convenience—you can start the process from home instead of scheduling an appointment at a physical location.

Key Takeaways

  • Touchless ID lets you complete TSA PreCheck enrollment by photographing your face and ID with your phone, rather than visiting an enrollment center.
  • You must use the official TSA PreCheck website (tsa.gov/precheck) to start; third-party sites offering this service are not legitimate.
  • The process takes photos of your face and ID document, which TSA compares to government records to confirm your identity.
  • Approval typically takes two to four weeks after you submit your photos and pay the fee.
  • If facial recognition fails or TSA cannot verify your identity, you will be offered an in-person appointment at an enrollment center instead.

Where to start the Touchless ID enrollment process

Go to the official TSA PreCheck website at tsa.gov/precheck. Look for the option to enroll online or renew your membership. The site will ask whether you want to use Touchless ID or schedule an in-person appointment. Select Touchless ID to begin.

You will need a smartphone or computer with a camera, a valid government-issued ID (passport, driver's license, or state ID), and a payment method. Have your ID in front of you before you start—you will photograph both sides of it during enrollment.

Do not use third-party websites or apps that claim to offer TSA PreCheck enrollment. TSA only processes applications through its official website. Scam sites may collect your personal information or charge you without submitting your process to TSA.

What photos you need to take and how to take them

You will take two types of photos: a selfie (photo of your face) and photos of your ID document. The system will guide you through each one and tell you if the photo is acceptable before you move forward.

For your selfie, find a well-lit space with a plain background. Hold your phone or device at eye level, keep your face centered in the frame, and look directly at the camera. Remove sunglasses and hats. The system may ask you to blink or move your head slightly to confirm you are a real person, not a photo.

For your ID photos, place your ID on a flat surface with good lighting. Take a photo of the front side, then flip it over and take a photo of the back. Make sure the entire ID is visible in the frame and the text is readable. Avoid shadows or glare on the ID.

How TSA verifies your identity using facial recognition

After you submit your photos, TSA's system compares your selfie to the photo on your ID document. It checks that the face in both images matches and that the person in the photos is the same person. This is called liveness detection—it confirms you are a real person taking the photo right now, not someone using an old photo or a printed image.

TSA then compares your information (name, date of birth, ID number) to government databases, including records from the Department of State, Social Security Administration, and other federal agencies. The system looks for criminal history, immigration violations, or other factors that would disqualify you from TSA PreCheck. This background check is the same one used for in-person enrollment.

If the facial recognition system cannot match your face to your ID or if it detects a problem during the background check, TSA will notify you by email. You will be offered the option to schedule an in-person appointment at an enrollment center instead, where a staff member can verify your identity manually.

What happens after you submit your photos and payment

Once you submit your photos and pay the enrollment fee (typically $78 to $85), your process enters TSA's review queue. You will receive a confirmation email with your process number. Save this number—you may need it to check your status or contact TSA.

TSA typically completes the review within two to four weeks. During this time, the agency conducts the background check and confirms that facial recognition successfully matched your identity. You will receive an email when your process is approved or if TSA needs more information from you.

Once approved, you will receive your TSA PreCheck Known Traveler Number (KTN) by email. Add this number to your airline reservations before you fly. Your membership is valid for five years from the date of approval. You do not receive a physical card in the mail—your KTN is all you need.

What to do if facial recognition fails or you are denied

If the Touchless ID system cannot match your face to your ID, you will see an error message during enrollment. Common reasons include poor lighting, a blurry photo, or a significant change in your appearance since your ID was issued (such as a beard, glasses, or weight loss). Try retaking the photos in better lighting or from a different angle. You get multiple attempts before the system locks you out.

If you have tried multiple times and the system still will not accept your photos, you can request an in-person appointment instead. TSA will send you a link to schedule an enrollment center visit. A staff member will verify your identity in person and complete your process on the spot. This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

If TSA denies your process during the background check, you will receive a letter explaining the reason. You have the right to request a review or appeal. Contact the TSA PreCheck office listed in the denial letter for instructions on how to proceed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Touchless ID if I have already done TSA PreCheck before?

Yes, if your membership has expired or is about to expire, you can renew using Touchless ID instead of going to an enrollment center. If your membership is still active, you cannot renew early, but you can use Touchless ID when your five-year term ends.

What if my ID is damaged or the photo is hard to read?

If your ID is worn, faded, or damaged, the system may not be able to read it. Try taking the photo in very bright light and at a slight angle to reduce glare. If the system still rejects it, you will need to schedule an in-person appointment where staff can examine the physical ID.

Is my facial recognition data stored by TSA?

TSA stores your photo and biometric data as part of your TSA PreCheck record. This information is used only for identity verification and is protected under federal privacy laws. You can request to see what data TSA has on file about you by submitting a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request.

How long does the whole process take from start to approval?

Taking and submitting your photos usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. After submission, TSA typically reviews your process within two to four weeks. In rare cases, if TSA needs additional information or conducts a more thorough background check, it may take longer.

What if I move to a different state after I enroll?

Your TSA PreCheck membership is valid nationwide and does not depend on your state of residence. You do not need to update your address or re-enroll if you move. Your KTN remains the same and works at every airport in the United States.