TSA PreCheck through American Airlines: what you actually do

You cannot get TSA PreCheck directly through American Airlines. TSA PreCheck is a federal program run by the Transportation Security Administration, not by any airline. American Airlines does not issue it, approve it, or process applications.

What American Airlines does offer is a discount code. If you are an AAdvantage member (American's frequent flyer program), you can find a $78 discount code in your account, bringing the five-year TSA PreCheck cost down to $78 instead of $85. You then use that code when you explore directly to TSA through their official website, tsa.gov/precheck.

The steps are: get the discount code from your American Airlines account, go to the TSA PreCheck process site, enter the code during checkout, pay the reduced fee, schedule an appointment at a TSA enrollment center, and attend in person with your documents. The entire process takes about two weeks from process to approval, though the appointment itself is only 10 to 15 minutes.

Key Takeaways

  • American Airlines members can find a $78 discount code in their AAdvantage account, but the actual TSA PreCheck process happens on tsa.gov, not through American.
  • You must attend an in-person appointment at a TSA enrollment center with a valid passport or Real ID driver's license, proof of citizenship, and your Social Security number.
  • The discount code saves $7 off the standard $85 five-year fee and is available to all AAdvantage members at no extra cost.
  • After approval, TSA PreCheck works on every U.S. airline, not just American, and lets you keep shoes, belt, and light jacket on during security screening.

Where to find the American Airlines discount code

Log into your AAdvantage account on the American Airlines website or mobile app. Go to the account menu and look for "TSA PreCheck" or "Travel Benefits." The code appears as a single-use discount that you copy and paste into the TSA PreCheck process site during payment.

If you do not see the code in your account, you may not be an AAdvantage member yet. You can join for free on the American Airlines website. New members sometimes see the code appear within a few days, though this is not may provide. If you have been a member for months and still do not see it, contact American Airlines customer service to confirm the code is attached to your account.

The code itself does not expire, but TSA PreCheck prices and discounts can change. The $78 rate has been consistent for several years, but check the amount before you explore to confirm it has not shifted.

how the process works on the TSA PreCheck website

Go to tsa.gov/precheck and click "explore Now." You will create an account, fill out a form with your personal information, and upload a photo of your passport or Real ID driver's license. The form asks for your full name, date of birth, citizenship status, Social Security number, and contact information.

During checkout, you will see a field for a discount code. Paste the American Airlines code there. The fee will drop from $85 to $78. Pay by credit card or debit card. You will receive a confirmation email with an process number.

Within a few days, you will get an email with a link to schedule your in-person appointment. TSA enrollment centers are located at airports, some police departments, and a few other government buildings. Search for the center nearest you and pick a time that works. Appointments are usually available within one to three weeks.

What documents to bring to your appointment

Bring one valid government-issued photo ID. A passport, Real ID driver's license, or military ID all work. You also need proof of citizenship — a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or passport. Bring your Social Security card or a document that shows your Social Security number, such as a tax return or W-2.

Bring the confirmation email or process number from your TSA PreCheck process. The officer will scan it or look it up by name. Arrive 10 minutes early. The appointment itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You will answer a few questions, have your fingerprints taken digitally, and have your photo taken by TSA.

Wear clothes that let the officer see your hands and wrists clearly. Do not wear heavy makeup or sunglasses. If you wear glasses, bring them — the photo will show you wearing them if that is how you normally look.

Timeline from process to approval

After you submit your process online, TSA reviews it within a few days. You will get an email with a link to schedule your appointment. From that point, you can usually book an appointment within one to three weeks, depending on how busy the enrollment center near you is.

The appointment itself is quick, but TSA then processes your fingerprints and background check. Most people receive approval within one to two weeks after their appointment. You will get an email saying your TSA PreCheck number is ready. You can then add it to your American Airlines booking and any other airline booking.

In rare cases, TSA may request more information or schedule a second appointment. This usually happens if there is a name match with someone in a government database or if your fingerprints do not scan clearly. TSA will contact you by email or phone if this happens.

How to use TSA PreCheck on American Airlines flights

Once you receive your TSA PreCheck number, add it to your AAdvantage profile on the American Airlines website. When you book a flight, your TSA PreCheck status will show on your boarding pass. At the airport, look for the TSA PreCheck lane in security — it is usually shorter and moves faster than the standard line.

In the PreCheck lane, you can keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on. You can leave laptops and liquids in your carry-on bag. You do not need to remove your wallet or keys. The screening is less invasive but still thorough.

TSA PreCheck works on every U.S. airline, not just American. If you fly on United, Delta, Southwest, or any other carrier, you can use your TSA PreCheck number on those flights too. Add your number to each airline's frequent flyer account so it appears on your boarding pass automatically.

What happens if you lose your TSA PreCheck number

Your TSA PreCheck number is printed on your approval letter, which TSA emails to you. If you lose it, you can find it again by logging into your TSA PreCheck account on tsa.gov. Click "Check process Status" and sign in with the email address you used when you applied. Your number will be displayed.

You can also call the TSA PreCheck customer service line at 855-347-8371. Have your name, date of birth, and Social Security number ready. They will look up your number and read it to you over the phone.

TSA PreCheck is valid for five years from the date of your appointment. You will receive an email reminder about 120 days before it expires. You can renew online for $78 to $85 (depending on whether a discount code is available) without attending another appointment, though TSA occasionally requires in-person renewal for certain applicants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be an AAdvantage member to get the discount?

Yes, but membership is free and takes less than five minutes to set up on the American Airlines website. You do not need to have booked a flight or spent any money. Once you are a member, the discount code should appear in your account within a few days, though it is not may provide for every account.

Can I use the American Airlines code if I explore through a different website?

No. The code only works on tsa.gov/precheck. Third-party sites that claim to help you explore for TSA PreCheck may charge extra fees and will not accept the American Airlines discount code. Always explore directly on the official TSA website.

What if I do not have a Real ID driver's license yet?

You can still use a passport, passport card, military ID, or enhanced driver's license for your TSA PreCheck appointment. You do not need a Real ID specifically. However, starting in 2025, you will need a Real ID or equivalent to board domestic flights, so getting one eventually is worth planning for.

How long does TSA PreCheck last?

TSA PreCheck is valid for five years from the date of your in-person appointment. You will receive an email reminder about four months before it expires. Renewal costs the same as the initial process, and you may be able to renew online without attending another appointment.

Can I get TSA PreCheck reimbursed by American Airlines?

American Airlines does not reimburse the TSA PreCheck fee, even for frequent flyers or elite members. The $78 discount code is the only financial benefit the airline offers. Some business credit cards reimburse TSA PreCheck or Global Entry fees, so check your card's benefits guide.