TSA PreCheck works the same way on Delta as any other airline — you get the credential first, then use it when you book

TSA PreCheck is a separate program from Delta. You enroll with the Transportation Security Administration, get a Known Traveler Number (KTN), and then enter that number into your Delta reservation. Delta does not issue PreCheck, does not approve you for it, and does not charge you for using it — you pay TSA directly for the five-year membership, and the benefit works on every airline that participates.

The process has three parts: enroll with TSA, receive your KTN in the mail, and add that number to your Delta bookings. Most people complete enrollment in one appointment and receive their KTN within two weeks. Once you have it, you can use it on Delta flights when ready by entering it during booking or by calling Delta to add it to an existing reservation.

Key Takeaways

  • TSA PreCheck membership costs $78 to $85 for five years and is purchased directly from TSA, not through Delta.
  • You must complete an in-person appointment at a TSA enrollment center or an approved third-party location to receive your Known Traveler Number.
  • Once you have your KTN, enter it in the "Known Traveler Number" field when booking Delta flights online, or provide it to Delta when you call to make a reservation.
  • Your KTN must be in your Delta reservation before you check in; adding it after check-in will not set up PreCheck benefits for that flight.
  • TSA PreCheck benefits on Delta include shorter security lines and the ability to keep shoes, belts, and light jackets on during screening.

Where to enroll for TSA PreCheck

TSA runs enrollment centers at major airports and some government buildings. You can find the nearest location by visiting the TSA PreCheck website and entering your zip code into their enrollment center locator. Most airports have at least one center; larger cities have multiple locations with different hours.

If no TSA center is convenient, you can enroll at certain Walgreens locations, UPS stores, and other approved third-party providers. These locations charge a small additional fee — usually $15 to $20 on top of the TSA fee — but may have more flexible hours than airport centers. Check the TSA website to confirm which third-party locations near you are currently accepting enrollments, because availability changes.

Make an appointment before you go. Walk-ins are sometimes accepted, but appointment slots fill quickly, especially at airport locations. You can book your appointment on the TSA PreCheck website or by phone at 1-855-347-8371.

What to bring to your enrollment appointment

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or military ID all work. You will also need proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident status. A U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card all count. If you have a state ID but no passport, bring your birth certificate or a certified copy.

Bring a second form of ID with your current address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. If your photo ID and address document have different names (for example, after a marriage), bring documentation of the name change.

The appointment itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. A TSA officer will verify your documents, take your fingerprints, and photograph you. You pay the enrollment fee at that time — $78 to $85 depending on whether you use a TSA center or a third-party provider. Some third-party locations accept only certain payment methods, so check before you go.

Getting your Known Traveler Number and using it on Delta

After your appointment, TSA mails your KTN to the address you provided. This usually takes one to two weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods. You will receive a physical card and a letter with your KTN printed on it. Write down your KTN or take a photo of it — you will need it to book flights.

When you book a Delta flight online, look for a field labeled "Known Traveler Number" or "KTN" in the passenger information section. Enter your nine-character KTN exactly as it appears on your TSA card. If you are booking by phone, tell the Delta agent your KTN and they will add it to your reservation. If you already have a Delta reservation and want to add your KTN, call Delta at 1-800-221-1212 or log into your reservation on Delta.com and edit the passenger information.

Your KTN must be in your reservation before you check in for your flight. Adding it after check-in will not set up PreCheck for that trip. When you arrive at security on the day of your flight, your TSA PreCheck status will appear on your boarding pass, and you will be directed to a PreCheck security line.

What TSA PreCheck includes on Delta flights

TSA PreCheck gives you access to a dedicated security line at the airport, which is usually much shorter than the standard line. You can keep your shoes, socks, belts, and light jackets on during screening. Laptops and liquids can stay in your carry-on bag — you do not have to remove them. You also do not have to remove your light jacket or hoodie.

PreCheck does not change anything about Delta's boarding process, seat selection, baggage allowance, or frequent flyer benefits. It only affects security screening. PreCheck also does not may provide you will never be selected for additional screening — TSA can still conduct random checks on any traveler, including PreCheck members.

Renewing your TSA PreCheck before it expires

Your TSA PreCheck membership lasts five years from the date of your enrollment appointment. About four months before your expiration date, TSA will send you a renewal notice. You can renew online through the TSA website if you have not had any criminal charges or immigration violations since your last enrollment. Online renewal costs $70 to $85 and takes about a week.

If you cannot renew online, you will need to complete a new in-person appointment at an enrollment center. This happens if your circumstances have changed or if TSA requires an updated background check. Schedule your renewal appointment before your current membership expires so there is no gap in your PreCheck benefits.

Common mistakes when using TSA PreCheck on Delta

The most common mistake is forgetting to enter your KTN when you book. If your reservation does not have your KTN, you will not see PreCheck on your boarding pass, even if you are a PreCheck member. Check your reservation confirmation email to confirm your KTN is listed. If it is missing, contact Delta to add it before you check in.

Another mistake is entering your KTN incorrectly. Your KTN is nine characters long and includes both letters and numbers. Type it exactly as it appears on your TSA card — do not add spaces or dashes. If you enter it wrong, TSA will not recognize it at security, and you will go through standard screening.

Some travelers assume PreCheck works on international flights. TSA PreCheck only applies to flights departing from U.S. airports. If you are flying from the United States to another country on Delta, you will use PreCheck at the U.S. airport. If you are flying from another country back to the United States, you will not use PreCheck at the foreign airport, but you may use it at your U.S. connection if you have a connecting flight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my TSA PreCheck KTN on Delta if I booked through a travel website?

Yes, but you may need to contact Delta directly to add it. Some third-party booking sites do not have a field for KTN. If your confirmation does not show your KTN, call Delta at 1-800-221-1212 with your reservation number and KTN, and they will add it to your booking.

What happens if I lose my TSA PreCheck card?

You can still use your KTN on flights — the card is just a reference. Write down your KTN or save it in your phone. If you need a replacement card, contact TSA through their website or call 1-855-347-8371. There is usually a fee for a replacement card, but your membership and KTN remain valid.

Does TSA PreCheck cost extra when I book Delta flights?

No. You pay TSA once for your five-year membership. Delta does not charge you to use PreCheck on their flights. Once you have your KTN, entering it on any flight is free.

Can I add my TSA PreCheck KTN to a Delta flight after I check in online?

No. Your KTN must be in your reservation before you check in. If you check in without it, you will not see PreCheck on your boarding pass. Call Delta when ready to add your KTN, but it may be too late to update your boarding pass for that flight.

Do I need TSA PreCheck to fly Delta?

No. TSA PreCheck is optional. You can fly Delta without it and go through standard security screening. PreCheck just makes the security process faster and more convenient.