TSA PreCheck requires an in-person appointment, a completed process form, and a fee of $78 to $85 for a five-year membership

You start by creating an account on the official TSA PreCheck website (universalEnroll.dhs.gov), where you fill out Form I-797 online. The form asks for your personal information, travel history, and background details. After you submit it, the system gives you a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that you can use when ready on airline bookings—but your PreCheck benefits don't set up until you complete the second step: an in-person appointment at an enrollment center.

The appointment itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes. A TSA officer will verify your identity using a government-issued ID (passport, driver's license, or military ID), take your fingerprints digitally, and collect the fee. You can pay by credit card, debit card, check, or money order. Once the appointment is done, TSA runs a background check that typically takes three to five business days, though it can take longer. You'll receive an email when your membership is active.

Key Takeaways

  • The online process on universalEnroll.dhs.gov takes 10 to 15 minutes and must be completed before you schedule an in-person appointment.
  • You must visit an enrollment center in person for fingerprinting and identity verification; the appointment itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
  • The total fee is $78 to $85 and covers five years of PreCheck membership.
  • After your appointment, TSA performs a background check that usually clears within three to five business days.
  • Once approved, you receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) to add to all future flight bookings.

Finding and scheduling an enrollment center appointment

TSA PreCheck enrollment centers are located at airports, some police departments, and private enrollment agencies across the country. You find available locations and book your appointment directly on universalEnroll.dhs.gov after you submit your online process. The website shows you which centers are near you, their hours, and which dates have open slots.

Appointment availability varies by location. Major airports usually have multiple centers with frequent openings, while smaller cities may have only one center with limited hours. If your nearest center is booked out for weeks, check whether a private enrollment agency in your area participates in the program—they often have more flexible scheduling. Some Walgreens locations, for example, host TSA PreCheck appointments.

Book your appointment as soon as you submit your online process. You do not have to wait for approval before scheduling; in fact, scheduling early ensures you get a time that works for you. If you need to reschedule or cancel, you can do that through your account on the enrollment website.

What to bring to your appointment

Bring one government-issued photo ID (a valid passport, driver's license, passport card, or military ID). If your ID is expired, bring it anyway along with a second form of ID—TSA will accept an expired government ID plus a current non-photo ID like a Social Security card or birth certificate. Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized.

You do not need to print anything. The TSA officer will have your online process on file and will verify the information you entered. Bring your payment method—a credit card, debit card, or checkbook. If you are paying by check, make it payable to "DHS/TSA."

Arrive about 5 to 10 minutes early. The appointment itself is quick, but arriving early gives you time to check in and answer any last-minute questions the officer may have.

Background check and approval timeline

After your appointment, TSA runs a background check that includes criminal history, immigration status, and security-related records. This check typically takes three to five business days, though it can extend to two weeks in some cases. You will receive an email notification when your membership is approved.

If TSA needs more information or has questions about your background, they will contact you by email or phone. Respond promptly to any requests. If your membership is denied, TSA will send you a letter explaining the reason and your right to appeal.

Once approved, your Known Traveler Number becomes active when ready. Add it to your airline profile and to every flight booking going forward. You do not receive a physical card in the mail; your KTN is your proof of membership.

Using your KTN on flight bookings

When you book a flight, enter your Known Traveler Number in the "Known Traveler Number" field on the airline's website or reservation system. If you already have a frequent flyer account with an airline, you can save your KTN in your profile so it auto-fills on every booking. If you forget to add it at booking, contact the airline before your flight to add it to your reservation.

At the airport, TSA PreCheck status appears on your boarding pass as a TSA PreCheck indicator. You will go through a dedicated PreCheck security line where you can keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on, leave your laptop and liquids in your carry-on bag, and move through screening faster than standard passengers.

Your KTN works at all U.S. airports and with all participating airlines. It does not work for international flights departing the U.S., but it does work for flights returning to the U.S. from abroad.

Renewing your membership before it expires

Your TSA PreCheck membership lasts five years from the date of your appointment. About 6 months before expiration, you will receive an email reminder. You can renew online through universalEnroll.dhs.gov without visiting an enrollment center in person—the renewal process is faster and costs $70 to $85 depending on the program.

If you renew online, TSA will not require fingerprints or an in-person appointment. You straightforward update your information, pay the fee, and your membership extends for another five years. If you wait until after your membership expires, you will have to go through the full process and appointment process again.

What happens if your process is denied

TSA denies PreCheck membership for serious criminal convictions, certain immigration violations, or security-related disqualifications. If your process is denied, TSA sends a letter explaining the reason and your right to appeal. You have 30 days from the date of the letter to request an appeal.

To appeal, contact the TSA PreCheck program office listed in your denial letter. You can submit additional documentation or information that you believe addresses the reason for denial. The appeal process takes several weeks. If the appeal is denied, you can reapply after one year has passed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my KTN before my in-person appointment?

Yes. After you complete the online process, you receive a KTN when ready. You can add it to flight bookings right away. However, TSA PreCheck benefits (the shorter security line and relaxed screening rules) do not set up until after your in-person appointment and background check are complete. If you use your KTN before approval, it may not work at the airport.

What if I move to a different state before my appointment?

You can reschedule your appointment at an enrollment center in your new state through your account on universalEnroll.dhs.gov. Your online process remains valid. You do not need to start over or pay again.

Do I need TSA PreCheck if I have Global Entry or another trusted traveler program?

No. Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and CANPASS all include TSA PreCheck benefits as part of their membership. If you already have one of these programs, you do not need to pay for PreCheck separately. Use the KTN from your existing program on your flight bookings.

What if my background check takes longer than five business days?

Contact the TSA PreCheck program office through universalEnroll.dhs.gov and reference your process number. They can tell you the status of your background check. Delays usually happen when TSA needs to verify information or when records are unclear. Respond promptly to any requests for additional information.

Can I get TSA PreCheck if I have a criminal record?

It depends on the type and severity of the conviction. Minor misdemeanors may not disqualify you, but serious felonies and certain drug convictions will. TSA reviews each case individually. If you are unsure, submit your process and let TSA make the information. If denied, you can appeal or reapply after one year.