You need to update your TSA PreCheck record with the Transportation Security Administration before your next flight

When you marry and change your legal name, your TSA PreCheck membership no longer matches your government-issued ID. The TSA will not let you use the old name at security, even though the account is still active. You must update your record through the TSA's online system or at an enrollment center in person. The process takes a few minutes online, costs nothing, and does not require you to renew your membership early — you keep the same expiration date.

The fastest route is the TSA's online update portal, which you can access with your existing login. If you do not have online access or prefer to update in person, you can visit a TSA PreCheck enrollment center and bring your marriage certificate and new ID. Either way, the change takes effect when ready once the TSA processes it, usually within a few days.

Key Takeaways

  • Update your name through the TSA's online portal at tsa.gov using your existing PreCheck account login — no new process needed.
  • If you update online, you will need your marriage certificate or divorce decree and your new government-issued ID to verify the name change.
  • You can also update in person at any TSA PreCheck enrollment center by bringing the same documents and a valid ID.
  • Your PreCheck membership expiration date stays the same; you do not pay a renewal fee or start a new five-year term.
  • The TSA typically processes name changes within a few business days, and you can use your PreCheck with your new ID when ready after the change is approved.

Update your name online through the TSA website

Go to tsa.gov and sign in to your existing TSA PreCheck account using your username and password. Look for the option to update your profile or account information — this is usually labeled "Manage Your Account" or "Update Your Information." Click through to the name change section.

Enter your new legal name exactly as it appears on your marriage certificate and your new government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID). The TSA will ask you to upload or provide images of both documents to verify the change. Have your marriage certificate and new ID ready before you start, so you can complete the upload without stopping.

After you submit the update, the TSA will send you a confirmation email. Check your email (including spam folders) within a few minutes. The name change usually takes effect within three to five business days, though it can be faster. You will receive another email when the update is complete.

Update your name in person at a TSA enrollment center

If you prefer to update face-to-face or do not have online access, visit a TSA PreCheck enrollment center near you. Find the nearest center at tsa.gov/precheck by entering your zip code. Call ahead to confirm hours, as some centers have limited availability or may require an appointment.

Bring three documents: your current passport or state-issued ID, your marriage certificate (or divorce decree if you changed your name through divorce), and your new government-issued ID if you already have one. The TSA agent will verify your identity, review your documents, and update your record on the spot. The process takes about five to ten minutes.

You will receive a confirmation email after your visit, usually within a day. Your new name becomes active in the TSA system right away, so you can use your PreCheck with your new ID on your next flight.

What documents you need for either method

The TSA requires proof of your legal name change and proof of your current identity. For the name change, bring your original or certified copy of your marriage certificate. A photocopy is acceptable if it is clear and legible. If you changed your name through divorce, bring your divorce decree showing the name change.

For identity verification, bring a valid government-issued ID — a passport, driver's license, or state ID. If you have already obtained a new ID with your married name, bring that. If you have not yet updated your state ID or passport, bring your current ID plus the marriage certificate; the TSA will use both to confirm the change is legitimate.

Your PreCheck membership stays active with no extra cost

Updating your name does not restart your five-year membership term. If your PreCheck was set to expire in 2027, it still expires in 2027 after the name change. You do not pay a renewal fee or submit a new process. The TSA treats a name change as a profile update, not a new membership.

When your PreCheck does expire, you will need to renew it through the standard renewal process, which costs the same as a new membership. The TSA will send you a reminder email a few months before expiration.

What to do if you have not received your new ID yet

You can update your TSA PreCheck name before your new driver's license or passport arrives. Bring your current ID plus your marriage certificate to an enrollment center, or upload both documents through the online portal. The TSA will accept the marriage certificate as proof of the legal name change.

Once your new ID arrives, you can use it when ready at TSA security lanes. The TSA system will already have your updated name on file, so there is no delay or second update needed. Just make sure the name on your new ID matches exactly what you entered in your TSA PreCheck record.

Using your PreCheck with your new name at the airport

After the TSA confirms your name change, use your PreCheck with your new government-issued ID. Present the ID that matches your updated TSA PreCheck record — if you have a new driver's license with your married name, use that. Do not use an old ID with your previous name, even if it is still valid for other purposes.

If you are traveling before your new ID arrives, contact the TSA at the airport or call the TSA PreCheck customer service line before your flight to confirm your account is updated. Bring your marriage certificate and current ID to the security checkpoint as backup documentation. Most TSA officers will honor your PreCheck status if your account shows the name change, but having the marriage certificate prevents delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my old name on my PreCheck until my new ID arrives?

No. Once you update your TSA PreCheck name, you must present an ID that matches the new name. If your new driver's license has not arrived yet, bring your marriage certificate and current ID to the security checkpoint and explain the situation to the TSA officer. Many will allow you to proceed, but it may take longer than using PreCheck normally would.

What if I made a mistake when I updated my name?

Contact the TSA PreCheck customer service line or visit an enrollment center to correct it. Bring your government-issued ID and marriage certificate. The TSA can update your record again at no cost. If you updated online, you can also log back into your account and edit the name before the TSA processes the change.

Do I need to update my PreCheck if I changed my name but kept my same passport?

Yes. Even if your passport has not been updated yet, your TSA PreCheck record must match the name on your current government-issued ID. Update your PreCheck now, and update your passport separately through the State Department when you are ready. The two processes are independent.

How long does it take for the TSA to process a name change?

Online updates typically take three to five business days. In-person updates at an enrollment center are usually processed the same day or within one business day. You will receive an email confirmation when the change is complete. During busy travel periods, processing may take slightly longer.

Will updating my name affect my PreCheck benefits or TSA Known Traveler Number?

No. Your TSA Known Traveler Number stays the same, and all your PreCheck benefits remain active. The update only changes the name associated with your account to match your new legal name.