Touchless TSA PreCheck uses facial recognition instead of a physical ID card

Touchless TSA PreCheck is a faster way through airport security that relies on your face instead of showing an ID. When you enroll, the TSA takes your photograph and stores it in a system that scans your face at the checkpoint. You walk up to a camera, it matches your face to your enrollment photo, and you move through the security line without handing over documents. The process takes about 10 minutes at an enrollment center, and the whole thing costs $78 to $85 depending on your state.

You do not need to replace an existing TSA PreCheck membership. If you already have a regular PreCheck card, you can add touchless to the same account. If you are new to PreCheck, touchless is the only option the TSA offers now — the agency phased out card-only enrollment in 2023.

Key Takeaways

  • Touchless TSA PreCheck uses facial recognition at security checkpoints, so you do not hand over your ID or boarding pass to an officer.
  • You enroll in person at a TSA PreCheck enrollment center, which takes about 10 minutes and costs between $78 and $85.
  • The TSA has enrollment centers at most major airports and some standalone locations; you can find yours on the official TSA PreCheck website.
  • After you enroll, your face is registered in the system and works at participating airports when ready — you do not wait for a card to arrive.
  • Touchless PreCheck works for five years, then you renew by visiting an enrollment center again.

Find an enrollment center near you

The TSA runs enrollment centers at major airports and in some cities away from airports. Go to the official TSA PreCheck website, click "Find an Enrollment Center," and enter your zip code. The search shows you every location within your area, hours of operation, and whether you need to book an appointment or can walk in.

Most airport locations are open during business hours and some evenings. Standalone centers — usually run by third-party contractors in shopping areas or government buildings — often have more flexible hours. If your nearest center has a long wait, check whether a location 30 or 40 miles away has an earlier opening.

Gather your documents before you go

Bring one government-issued photo ID and one proof of your current address. A valid passport, driver's license, or state ID card counts as your photo ID. For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A credit card bill or insurance document also works.

If your name has changed since your ID was issued — through marriage, divorce, or legal change — bring a document that shows the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The enrollment officer will check that your current name matches your address proof.

Complete the enrollment appointment

When you arrive, tell the officer you want to enroll in touchless TSA PreCheck. They will ask you to fill out a form with your personal information, then take your photograph. The photo is used only for facial recognition at security checkpoints; it is not printed on anything you carry.

The officer will scan your documents, take your fingerprints, and ask you a few background questions about criminal history and immigration status. The whole process takes 10 to 15 minutes. You pay the fee — usually by credit card or check — and you are done. Your face is registered in the TSA system when ready, and you can use touchless PreCheck at participating airports right away.

You do not receive a physical card or document in the mail. Your enrollment is tied to your face and your name in the TSA database. When you arrive at a participating airport, you walk to a touchless checkpoint, look at the camera, and the system recognizes you.

Use touchless PreCheck at the airport

At a participating airport, look for a lane marked "Touchless ID" or "Facial Recognition." Walk up to the camera stand, position your face in the frame, and wait for the green light. The system scans your face, confirms your identity, and you proceed through security without removing your shoes, belt, or light jacket. You keep your laptop and liquids in your bag.

If the camera does not recognize you — because of poor lighting, a new beard, or a different angle — the officer will ask you to try again or will verify your identity manually. This happens rarely, but it is not a problem if it does. You still move through the line faster than standard security.

Touchless PreCheck works at most major U.S. airports, but not all. Before you travel, check the TSA website to confirm that your destination airport has touchless checkpoints. If it does not, you can still use a standard PreCheck lane if your enrollment is active.

Renew your enrollment every five years

Touchless TSA PreCheck is valid for five years from the date you enroll. About 90 days before your membership expires, the TSA sends you a notice by mail. You return to an enrollment center, pay the renewal fee again, and have your photo taken. The process is identical to your first enrollment and takes the same amount of time.

You can renew at any enrollment center, not necessarily the one where you first enrolled. If you move to a different state, you can renew at a center near your new home.

What happens if facial recognition does not work for you

Some people have trouble with facial recognition systems — because of scars, facial hair, glasses, or other reasons. If you enroll and find that the camera consistently fails to recognize you, contact the TSA PreCheck customer service line. They can flag your account and arrange for manual verification at checkpoints, which means an officer will check your ID instead of relying on the camera.

You keep your PreCheck membership and the faster security line. The only difference is that an officer verifies you by ID rather than by face. This is not common, but the TSA has a process for it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use touchless PreCheck if I wear glasses or contacts?

Yes. The facial recognition system is designed to work with glasses, contacts, and most common variations in appearance. Wear what you normally wear. If you recently had major surgery or a significant change to your face, you may want to wait a few weeks before enrolling so your enrollment photo matches how you look day-to-day.

What if I lose my passport or ID after I enroll in touchless PreCheck?

Your touchless PreCheck membership is separate from your ID. You can still use facial recognition at security checkpoints even if your ID is expired or lost. You do not need to carry a physical PreCheck card or document. Just show up at a touchless checkpoint and look at the camera.

Can I enroll in touchless PreCheck if I have a criminal record?

It depends on the offense. The TSA reviews your background during enrollment. Some convictions disqualify you; others do not. The enrollment officer will tell you during your appointment whether you are approved or denied. If you are denied, you can request a waiver or appeal the decision through the TSA.

Do I need a passport to enroll, or can I use my driver's license?

A driver's license or state ID is fine. You do not need a passport. Any government-issued photo ID that is currently valid works for enrollment.

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

Your touchless PreCheck membership works nationwide and does not depend on where you live. You can use it at any participating airport in any state. When it is time to renew, you can visit an enrollment center in your new state.