TSA PreCheck now offers a touchless path that does not require an in-person appointment

You can complete most of the TSA PreCheck process online and by mail, skipping the enrollment center visit entirely. The touchless option lets you submit your process, photos, and documents through the TSA website, then receive your Known Traveler Number (KTN) by mail once the agency approves your background check. This route takes longer than the traditional in-person enrollment — typically four to six weeks instead of minutes — but works if you cannot visit a center or prefer to avoid crowds.

The touchless process is available to all new applicants and some renewal applicants, though availability depends on your location and whether you are renewing or explore for the first time. You will still need to pay the $78 to $85 fee (depending on whether you choose a five-year or ten-year membership), and you will still undergo the same background check as someone who visits in person.

Key Takeaways

  • The touchless TSA PreCheck process lets you submit your process, photos, and documents online without visiting an enrollment center.
  • You must provide a valid U.S. passport, passport card, or Real ID driver's license, plus proof of citizenship or permanent residency.
  • The touchless route takes four to six weeks from submission to receiving your KTN in the mail, compared to minutes at an enrollment center.
  • You pay the $78 to $85 fee upfront through the TSA website, and the background check is the same whether you enroll in person or by mail.
  • Not all renewal applicants can use the touchless option; the TSA website will tell you whether you are may be able to access when you start your process.

What documents you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin the online process. You will need a valid form of identification — a U.S. passport, passport card, or Real ID-compliant driver's license. If you do not have a Real ID license yet, a regular state driver's license does not work for TSA PreCheck, though a passport will.

You also need proof of citizenship or permanent residency. A U.S. passport counts as both identification and citizenship proof. If you are using a driver's license, bring a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or green card to show citizenship status. Have your Social Security number ready as well.

Finally, prepare a recent photo of yourself — a clear headshot taken against a plain background, similar to a passport photo. The TSA website specifies the exact dimensions and lighting requirements when you upload it, so read those instructions carefully before you take the photo.

How to submit your process online

Go to the official TSA PreCheck website and create an account if you do not have one already. Select the touchless enrollment option when prompted. The system will ask you to enter your personal information, including your full name, date of birth, citizenship status, and Social Security number.

Upload your identification document — take a clear photo of both the front and back of your passport, passport card, or driver's license. The file must be in JPEG or PDF format and meet the size requirements shown on the form. Upload your proof of citizenship next if it is different from your ID (for example, a birth certificate if you are using a driver's license).

Upload your headshot photo in the format and dimensions the TSA specifies. Poor lighting, shadows, or a background that is not plain will cause the system to reject it, so take multiple photos and choose the clearest one. Once all documents are uploaded and your information is complete, review everything and submit your process. You will receive a confirmation number when ready.

Pay your fee and wait for background clearance

The TSA will send you a payment link via email within one business day. Click the link and pay the $78 fee for a five-year membership or $85 for a ten-year membership using a credit or debit card. Your process does not move forward until payment is received, so complete this step as soon as you get the email.

After payment clears, the TSA conducts a background check that typically takes four to six weeks. You can check the status of your process anytime by logging into your TSA PreCheck account on the website. The status page will tell you whether your process is pending, approved, or if the agency needs additional information from you.

If the TSA requests more documents or information, you will receive an email with instructions on how to submit them. Respond as quickly as possible, because delays in providing what they ask for will extend your overall timeline.

Receive your Known Traveler Number by mail

Once your background check clears, the TSA mails your approval letter and Known Traveler Number (KTN) to the address you provided in your process. This mailing typically arrives within one to two weeks after approval. Your KTN is a nine-digit number that you enter when you book flights to receive TSA PreCheck benefits at security.

You do not need to wait for the physical card to arrive — you can start using your KTN as soon as you receive the approval email from the TSA. Add your KTN to your airline frequent-flyer profiles so it automatically appears on your boarding passes. You can also enter it manually when you book a flight if your airline does not have it on file yet.

Keep your approval letter in a safe place. You may need it as proof of your TSA PreCheck status if there is ever a question at the airport, though the TSA can verify your status in their system using your name and date of birth.

When the touchless option is not available to you

Some applicants cannot use the touchless process. If you are renewing your TSA PreCheck and your membership expired more than two years ago, you may be required to visit an enrollment center instead. The TSA website will tell you whether you are may be able to access for touchless renewal when you log into your account.

If you are explore for TSA PreCheck for the first time and the touchless option is not showing as available in your area, it may mean your state or region does not yet have the program active. Check back on the TSA website in a few weeks, or visit an enrollment center if you need PreCheck before the touchless option becomes available where you live.

Applicants with certain criminal or immigration issues may also be required to appear in person for an interview. The TSA will notify you if this applies to your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a regular driver's license instead of a Real ID license for touchless TSA PreCheck?

No. You need either a Real ID-compliant driver's license, a U.S. passport, or a passport card. A standard driver's license does not meet TSA identification requirements. If your state has not issued you a Real ID license yet, use your passport instead.

What happens if the TSA rejects my photo?

The system will tell you why the photo was rejected — usually poor lighting, a background that is not plain, or incorrect dimensions. Take a new photo following the exact specifications shown on the form and upload it again. You can resubmit as many times as needed without paying an additional fee.

Can I use my KTN before my physical card arrives?

Yes. You can use your KTN as soon as you receive the approval email from the TSA. Add it to your airline frequent-flyer account or enter it manually when you book your flight. The physical card is optional — your KTN is what matters at airport security.

How long does the touchless process take from start to finish?

Expect four to six weeks total. This includes time for the TSA to process your payment, conduct the background check, mail your approval, and for the mail to reach you. In-person enrollment is faster — you get your KTN when ready — but touchless takes longer because everything moves through the mail.

What if I move before my TSA PreCheck arrives?

Log into your TSA PreCheck account and update your mailing address as soon as possible. If your approval has already been mailed, contact the TSA through your account to request that it be resent to your new address. Do not wait until after it arrives at your old address.