TSA PreCheck is not run by Delta, but Delta passengers can use it

TSA PreCheck is a federal program run by the Transportation Security Administration. Delta does not issue it, approve it, or manage it — but Delta passengers who have TSA PreCheck can use it at airport security lines. You obtain TSA PreCheck directly from the TSA, not from any airline.

The process involves submitting an online form, paying a fee, and attending an in-person appointment where the TSA takes your fingerprints and verifies your identity. Once approved, your membership lasts five years. When you fly Delta or any other airline, you enter your Known Traveler Number (KTN) into your reservation, and you can use expedited security lanes at participating airports.

Key Takeaways

  • You explore for TSA PreCheck through the official TSA website (tsa.gov), not through Delta or any airline.
  • The process fee is $78 to $85 depending on your state, and the membership is valid for five years.
  • You must complete an online form, then schedule and attend an in-person appointment at a TSA enrollment center or approved third-party location.
  • Once approved, you receive a Known Traveler Number that you enter when booking Delta flights to access expedited security screening.
  • Delta passengers without TSA PreCheck can still fly; PreCheck only speeds up the security process at the airport.

Where to start: the TSA official process

Go to tsa.gov/precheck and click "explore Now." You will create an account, fill out a form with your personal information, and pay the fee online. The form asks for your name, date of birth, citizenship status, contact information, and a valid form of identification (driver's license, passport, or state ID). You do not need to be a Delta customer to explore.

The fee varies by state but is typically $78 to $85. Some states charge slightly more. You pay this fee once, and it covers five years of membership. A few employers and organizations reimburse TSA PreCheck fees for their employees, so check with your company if you travel frequently for work.

Scheduling your in-person appointment

After you submit your online form and pay the fee, the TSA will email you instructions for scheduling an appointment. You choose a date and time at a TSA enrollment center near you. The TSA maintains enrollment centers at many airports and some off-airport locations. You can also use approved third-party enrollment providers — companies like Idemia and Clear operate enrollment locations in addition to TSA centers.

Appointments typically have availability within a few weeks, though this varies by location. Bring your valid government-issued ID and proof of citizenship or immigration status (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers). The appointment itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes. A TSA officer will verify your identity, take your fingerprints, and ask background questions. You will not need to bring anything related to Delta.

What happens after your appointment

The TSA reviews your background after your appointment. This review can take several weeks. You will receive an email when your status changes. If you are approved, you receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) — a nine-character code that you keep for the entire five-year membership.

If the TSA requests more information, they will contact you by email or phone. If you are denied, the TSA will explain why and tell you how to appeal. Denials are uncommon and usually result from criminal history, immigration violations, or security concerns.

Using your KTN when you book Delta flights

Once you have your KTN, enter it into your Delta reservation. When you book online, there is a field for "Known Traveler Number" or "Redress Number" — enter your KTN there. If you booked before receiving your KTN, you can add it to your reservation later through Delta's website or by calling Delta reservations.

When you check in for your flight (online, at a kiosk, or at the counter), make sure your reservation shows your KTN. At the airport, look for the TSA PreCheck lane — it is usually marked with a blue sign. You will go through a faster security process: you can keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on, leave your laptop and liquids in your bag, and move through the line more quickly than standard security.

TSA PreCheck at different airports

TSA PreCheck is available at most major U.S. airports, but not all. Before your trip, check the TSA website to confirm that your departure and arrival airports offer PreCheck screening. If your departure airport has PreCheck but your connection does not, you will go through standard security at the connection.

Delta flies to hundreds of airports, but TSA PreCheck enrollment centers are concentrated in larger cities. If you live far from an enrollment center, you may be able to use a third-party provider. Idemia and Clear operate enrollment locations in many areas, and the fee is the same whether you use a TSA center or a third-party location.

Renewing your membership before it expires

Your TSA PreCheck membership is valid for five years from the date of approval. About four months before your membership expires, the TSA will send you an email reminder. You can renew online without attending another appointment — the renewal fee is the same as the initial fee. Some renewals require a new in-person appointment; the TSA will tell you which applies to you when you renew.

If your membership expires before you renew, you will lose access to PreCheck lanes until you complete the renewal process and receive approval. It is easier to renew before expiration than to reapply after your membership has lapsed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use TSA PreCheck on flights other than Delta?

Yes. TSA PreCheck works on all airlines at participating airports. Your KTN is not airline-specific — you enter it when booking any flight, whether it is Delta, United, American, Southwest, or any other carrier.

What if I do not have a passport or birth certificate for my appointment?

You need proof of citizenship or immigration status. A passport is easiest, but you can also bring an original or certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card. Call the TSA enrollment center ahead of time if you are unsure whether your documents will work.

Do I need TSA PreCheck to fly Delta?

No. TSA PreCheck is optional. All Delta passengers go through security screening. PreCheck just lets you use a faster lane and keep more items on your person during screening. Standard security is still available to everyone.

Can I explore for TSA PreCheck if I have a criminal record?

It depends on the offense. The TSA reviews each process individually. Some criminal convictions result in automatic denial, while others are evaluated case by case. If you have concerns, contact the TSA before explore — they can tell you whether your record will likely disqualify you.

What if I lose my KTN or forget it?

Log into your TSA PreCheck account on tsa.gov to view your KTN anytime. You can also call the TSA at 1-855-347-8371. If you forget to enter it when booking, you can add it to your reservation up until you check in for your flight.