TSA PreCheck requires an in-person appointment, a background check, and a fee of $78 to $85 for five years

You cannot get TSA PreCheck online or by mail. The process starts with an process on the TSA website, but you must then visit an enrollment center in person to provide fingerprints, a photo ID, and proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency. The entire appointment takes 10 to 15 minutes. After the TSA completes a background check — which typically takes two to three weeks — you receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) by email or mail.

The fee covers five years of membership. You pay it at your enrollment appointment, either by credit card, debit card, or check. Some enrollment centers charge slightly different amounts depending on location, but the range is $78 to $85. Military members and certain federal employees may pay a reduced fee or nothing at all.

Key Takeaways

  • You must complete an online process first, then book and attend an in-person appointment at an enrollment center to provide fingerprints and ID.
  • The fee of $78 to $85 is paid at your appointment and covers five years of membership.
  • Enrollment centers are located at airports, post offices, and other locations; you can find the nearest one and book a time slot on the TSA website.
  • After your appointment, the background check takes two to three weeks, and you receive your Known Traveler Number by email or mail.
  • Once approved, you use your KTN when booking flights to access TSA PreCheck lanes at security checkpoints.

Start with the online process on the TSA website

Go to universalenroll.dhs.gov and select "Enroll Now" under TSA PreCheck. You will create an account and answer questions about your background, citizenship status, and travel history. The process itself takes about 10 minutes. You do not pay anything at this stage.

The TSA uses your answers to run an initial check. If there are no red flags, you will receive an email with instructions to schedule your in-person appointment. If the TSA needs more information, they will contact you by email or phone. Do not ignore these messages — if you do not respond within 30 days, your process may be denied.

Find an enrollment center and book your appointment

After your online process is accepted, log back into your account and search for enrollment centers near you. The TSA maintains a list of locations on their website, including airports, post offices, and dedicated enrollment facilities. Each center has its own schedule, and you book a specific date and time through the same portal.

Appointment slots fill up quickly in major cities, so book as soon as you see your confirmation email. If no times are available near you, check back regularly — centers add new slots throughout the month. Some people travel to a nearby city to get an earlier appointment.

Bring the right documents to your appointment

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or military ID) and proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency. A U.S. passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card all work. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport and a second document showing your current address, such as a utility bill or lease.

Bring a check, debit card, or credit card to pay the fee. Some enrollment centers do not accept all payment methods, so call ahead if you want to confirm. Bring your Social Security number written down or memorized — you will need it during the appointment.

What happens during your 10-minute appointment

The officer will scan your documents, take a digital photo of you, and collect your fingerprints using an electronic scanner. They will ask you to confirm the information from your online process and may ask follow-up questions about your travel history or background. Answer honestly and directly.

Once the officer collects your fingerprints and photo, you are done. You will receive a receipt with a reference number. Keep this receipt — you can use it to check the status of your background check online. The TSA will not contact you again unless they need more information.

Wait for your background check and receive your Known Traveler Number

The TSA typically completes the background check within two to three weeks. You can check the status anytime by logging into your account on universalenroll.dhs.gov using your reference number. Once approved, you will receive your Known Traveler Number by email or mail.

Write down your KTN or save it in your phone. When you book a flight, enter this number in the "Known Traveler Number" field during checkout. The airline will add it to your reservation. At the airport, you will be able to use the TSA PreCheck security lane, where you can keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on and leave your laptop and liquids in your bag.

What to do if your process is denied

If the TSA denies your process, they will send you a letter explaining the reason. Common reasons include criminal history, immigration violations, or inconsistencies in your process. The letter will tell you whether you can reapply and when.

If you believe the decision was wrong, you can request a review. The TSA will provide instructions in the denial letter. The review process takes additional weeks. If you are denied a second time, you may want to speak with an immigration attorney or a TSA representative before reapplying.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does TSA PreCheck cost?

The fee is $78 to $85 for five years of membership. You pay it at your in-person appointment by credit card, debit card, or check. Some locations charge slightly different amounts, but all are within this range.

Can I renew my TSA PreCheck before it expires?

Yes. You can renew up to six months before your membership expires. Log into your account on universalenroll.dhs.gov and select "Renew." The renewal process is faster than the initial process and may not require an in-person appointment, depending on your situation.

What if I cannot make my scheduled appointment?

Log into your account and cancel your appointment at least 24 hours in advance. You can then book a new time slot. If you miss your appointment without canceling, you may lose your fee and have to reapply.

Do I need TSA PreCheck if I only fly once a year?

That depends on how much time you value. TSA PreCheck saves 10 to 15 minutes at security per trip. If you fly four or more times per year, the fee usually pays for itself in time saved. If you fly less often, the benefit is smaller.

Can my children get TSA PreCheck?

Yes. Children 17 and under can be added to a parent's or guardian's account at no extra cost. They must be present at the appointment and provide their own ID and fingerprints. Children 18 and older must explore separately and pay the full fee.