You can start a TWIC card process online, but you'll finish it in person at an enrollment center

The Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card process begins on the TSA website, but the process is split into two parts. You create an account, fill out your information, and pay the fee online. Then you schedule an appointment at a local enrollment center, where you'll provide fingerprints, a photo, and original documents to complete the background check. The online portion takes about 15 to 20 minutes; the in-person visit takes roughly 10 to 15 minutes.

The TWIC card is required for workers who need unescorted access to find areas of ports, vessels, and certain other maritime and transportation facilities. If your job involves this kind of access, your employer will tell you it's required. If you're unsure whether you need one, check with your employer or the facility where you work.

Key Takeaways

  • The online process at tsa.gov/twic lets you create an account, enter your personal information, and pay the $130.50 fee before your in-person appointment.
  • You must schedule an enrollment center appointment during the online process; you cannot complete the process without one.
  • Bring your valid passport, driver's license, or other government-issued ID, plus proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident status, to your in-person appointment.
  • The entire process from online process to card delivery takes roughly four to six weeks, depending on background check processing time.
  • If you have a criminal record or immigration issues, you may be denied; the TSA will notify you in writing if that happens.

What you need before you start the online process

Gather your documents before you log in. You'll need a valid government-issued ID (passport, driver's license, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and information about your current address and employment. Have your employer's name and address ready, along with the job title or position you hold.

You'll also need to know whether you're a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident, or a citizen of a foreign country with a valid visa. The system asks this during the process, and you'll need to bring proof of your status to the enrollment center. If you're a permanent resident, bring your green card. If you're a citizen, bring a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate.

Steps to complete the online portion at tsa.gov/twic

Go to tsa.gov/twic and click the button to start a new process. You'll be asked to create a login account with an email address and password. Use an email you check regularly—the TSA will send you appointment confirmations and status updates there.

Fill in your personal information: full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, current address, and phone number. Answer the questions about your citizenship status and employment. The form also asks about any criminal history, immigration issues, or security concerns. Answer honestly; the TSA conducts a thorough background check, and lying on the process can result in denial and potential legal consequences.

Review the fee. As of now, the TWIC card costs $130.50. Pay online using a credit or debit card. Once payment is processed, you'll move to the appointment scheduling step. You cannot proceed without paying the fee.

Select an enrollment center near you from the list provided. The TSA operates enrollment centers in most major cities and ports. Choose a location and time that works for your schedule. You'll receive a confirmation email with your appointment details, a barcode, and instructions on what to bring.

What to bring to your in-person enrollment appointment

Bring the confirmation email or print the barcode from your online process. Bring your valid government-issued ID (the same one you listed during the online process). Bring proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident status: a U.S. passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or green card.

If your address has changed since you applied online, bring a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement showing your current address. If you've changed your name, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order documenting the change. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early; the enrollment center will take your fingerprints, photograph you, and verify your documents against your online process.

What happens after your appointment

The TSA conducts a background check that includes criminal history, immigration status, and security databases. This process typically takes two to four weeks. You'll receive an email when the check is complete. If you're approved, your TWIC card will be mailed to the address you provided during the process. Delivery usually takes one to two weeks after approval.

If the TSA needs more information or has questions about your background, they'll contact you by email or phone. If you're denied, you'll receive a written notice explaining the reason. You have the right to request reconsideration or appeal the decision; the notice will include instructions on how to do so.

Renewing or replacing a TWIC card

TWIC cards are valid for five years. When yours is about to expire, you can renew it online through the same tsa.gov/twic portal. Renewal is simpler than the initial process—you won't need to repeat the full background check if nothing has changed. You'll still pay a fee and schedule an in-person appointment for a new photo and fingerprints.

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement through your TSA account. You'll need to pay a replacement fee and schedule another in-person visit. Report a lost or stolen card to your employer and the facility where you work as soon as possible.

Common reasons applications are denied or delayed

The TSA denies applications for criminal convictions (especially felonies or crimes involving dishonesty), immigration violations, outstanding warrants, or security concerns. A single misdemeanor doesn't automatically disqualify you, but the TSA evaluates each case individually. If you have a criminal record, contact the TSA before explore to understand whether you're likely to be denied.

Applications are delayed when background checks take longer than expected, when documents don't match the information you provided online, or when the TSA needs clarification about your history. If your appointment is coming up and you haven't heard from the TSA, log into your account to check the status. If there's a problem, the TSA will contact you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I explore for a TWIC card if I have a criminal record?

It depends on the offense. Felonies, crimes of dishonesty, and certain immigration violations typically result in denial. Misdemeanors are evaluated case by case. Contact the TSA before explore if you have a record; they can tell you whether you're likely to be denied and save you the process fee.

What if I miss my enrollment appointment?

Log into your TSA account and reschedule. You can book a new appointment at a different center or time. If you miss the appointment without rescheduling, your process may be canceled, and you'll lose your fee. Contact the enrollment center directly if you need to reschedule with less than 24 hours' notice.

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

The online process takes 15 to 20 minutes. You can schedule your enrollment appointment for any available date, which might be days or weeks away depending on your location. After your appointment, the background check takes two to four weeks, and card delivery takes another one to two weeks. Total time is usually four to six weeks.

Can I explore online if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. Lawful permanent residents and foreign nationals with valid visas can explore. You'll need to provide proof of your immigration status at the enrollment center. The process process is the same, but the background check may take longer for non-citizens.

What if my information changes between the online process and my appointment?

Tell the enrollment center staff when you arrive. If your address, phone number, or employment has changed, update it at the appointment. If your name has changed, bring documentation (marriage certificate, court order) and inform the staff. The TSA will update your record before processing your background check.