TSA PreCheck lets you keep shoes and belt on at airport security

TSA PreCheck is a program that lets you go through a faster security line at U.S. airports. You keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on, leave your laptop and liquids in your bag, and walk through standard metal detectors instead of full-body scanners. The process takes about five minutes instead of 20 to 30.

To get TSA PreCheck, you submit an online form, pay a $78 to $85 fee (depending on where you renew), and attend a 10-minute in-person appointment at an enrollment center. The whole program lasts five years, then you renew. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen, but you do need a valid passport or state ID.

Key Takeaways

  • You explore online first at the official TSA PreCheck website, then schedule an in-person appointment within 30 days.
  • The appointment takes 10 minutes and happens at an enrollment center, airport, or some post offices — you bring your passport or state ID and pay the fee in person.
  • TSA PreCheck costs $78 to $85 and covers all U.S. airports for five years.
  • You can use TSA PreCheck on any airline, and it works at more than 200 U.S. airports.
  • If you are denied, you can request a second review or appeal the decision within 30 days.

Step 1: Create an account and fill out the online form

Go to the official TSA PreCheck website (tsa.gov/precheck) and click "Enroll Now." You will create a login account with an email address and password. Then you fill out the TSA PreCheck process form, which asks for your name, date of birth, citizenship status, address, and contact information.

The form also asks about your criminal history, immigration status, and any security violations. Answer honestly — the TSA runs a background check, and lying on the form can result in denial and a fine. The whole form takes about 10 minutes. When you finish, you will get a confirmation number.

Step 2: Schedule your in-person appointment

After you submit the form, log back into your account and schedule an appointment at an enrollment center. The TSA has more than 500 enrollment locations across the country — you can find them by entering your zip code on the TSA website. Many are at airports, but some are at post offices, police departments, and private security companies.

You can usually book an appointment within a few days to a few weeks, depending on how busy your local center is. Choose a time that works for you — appointments are available most days of the week, including some evenings and weekends. You will receive a confirmation email with the date, time, and location.

Step 3: Attend your appointment and pay the fee

Bring your passport, state ID, or military ID to your appointment. You also need to bring proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last month works. Arrive 10 minutes early.

At the appointment, an officer will scan your ID, take your fingerprints, and ask a few questions to confirm the information on your form. The whole process takes about 10 minutes. Then you pay the fee — $78 to $85, depending on your state and whether you are renewing. You can pay by credit card, debit card, or check. You do not receive your TSA PreCheck card at the appointment; it arrives by mail in 3 to 5 business days.

What happens if your background check takes longer

Most people are approved within a few days and receive their card in the mail. Some applications go into "pending" status if the TSA needs more information or if your background check takes longer. You can check your status by logging into your account on the TSA website.

If the TSA needs more documents or clarification, they will email you. Respond as soon as you can — delays usually happen because the TSA is waiting to hear back from you. If you are denied, the TSA will send you a letter explaining why. You have 30 days to request a second review or file an appeal.

Using your TSA PreCheck number before your card arrives

You do not have to wait for your physical card to use TSA PreCheck. Once you are approved, you receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) by email. You can enter this number when you book your flight or add it to your airline frequent-flyer account.

When you check in at the airport, the airline will see your KTN and print "TSA PreCheck" on your boarding pass. Show your boarding pass at security, and you will be directed to the PreCheck line. You still need to bring a valid ID to security, but you do not need the physical TSA PreCheck card.

Who is not may be able to access for TSA PreCheck

You cannot get TSA PreCheck if you have been convicted of certain crimes, including felonies, drug offenses, or crimes involving violence. You also cannot get it if you have been deported, have an outstanding warrant, or are subject to a restraining order. The TSA also denies PreCheck to people with certain immigration violations or security-related offenses.

If you have a criminal record and are unsure whether you may have access to, you can still explore — the TSA will review your specific situation. Some people with older convictions or minor offenses are approved. The worst that happens is you are denied, and you can request a review.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use TSA PreCheck on international flights?

TSA PreCheck only works for domestic flights within the United States. For international travel, you may be interested in Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck and also speeds up customs and immigration when you return to the U.S. Global Entry costs $100 and lasts five years.

What if I lose my TSA PreCheck card?

You do not need the physical card — your Known Traveler Number is what matters. As long as you enter your KTN when you book your flight, you will get TSA PreCheck at security. If you want a replacement card, you can request one through your TSA PreCheck account for a small fee.

Can I renew TSA PreCheck before it expires?

Yes. You can renew your TSA PreCheck up to six months before it expires. The renewal process is the same as the initial process — you fill out the form online, schedule an appointment, and pay the fee. Some renewal appointments are shorter if your background check does not need to be repeated.

Do I need TSA PreCheck if I have Global Entry?

No. Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck as a benefit, so you get the faster security line automatically. You do not pay for both — Global Entry is the more expensive option that covers more programs.

What if my appointment gets cancelled?

If the enrollment center cancels your appointment, you will receive an email notification. Log back into your account and book a new appointment at a different time or location. You do not lose your place in line or have to pay again.