TWIC card renewal is a straightforward process you can start online or in person, and you should begin it at least two months before your card expires

Your TWIC card (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) is valid for five years from the date it was issued. The expiration date is printed on the front of your card. You can renew it through the TSA's official TWIC program by visiting the TWIC enrollment website, calling the TWIC customer service line, or visiting a TWIC enrollment center in person. The renewal process is faster than your initial process because you have already passed a background check—you will not need to repeat the full vetting process unless your circumstances have changed significantly.

Starting your renewal early gives you a buffer if processing takes longer than expected or you encounter delays. Most people renew between two and six months before their card expires, which ensures their new card arrives before the old one lapses and there is no gap in their work authorization.

Key Takeaways

  • You can begin your TWIC renewal online at twic.tsa.dhs.gov or by phone at 1-855-99-TWIC up to one year before your card expires.
  • Renewal by mail costs $64.50 and takes about four to six weeks; in-person renewal at an enrollment center costs $125 and is completed the same day.
  • You will need your current TWIC card, a valid government-issued photo ID, and proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident status.
  • If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must explore for a replacement rather than a renewal, which involves a different process.
  • Starting your renewal at least two months before expiration gives you time to complete the process without interruption to your work authorization.

Starting your renewal online or by phone

Visit the official TWIC enrollment website at twic.tsa.dhs.gov and log into your account using your email address and password. If you do not have an online account, you can create one. Select the renewal option and follow the prompts to confirm your personal information, current address, and employment details. The system will ask you to upload a new digital photo that meets TSA standards: a color headshot taken within the last six months, against a white background, with your face clearly visible and no sunglasses or head coverings (religious head coverings are permitted).

If you prefer not to use the website, you can call the TWIC customer service line at 1-855-99-TWIC (1-855-998-8942) to request a renewal process by mail. A representative will verify your identity and send you a paper form and instructions. This route takes longer overall because you will mail in your process and wait for processing, but it works if you do not have reliable internet access or prefer to work on paper.

Choosing between mail-in and in-person renewal

Mail-in renewal costs $64.50 and is the least expensive option. You will receive a renewal process packet in the mail, complete it with your current TWIC card and a copy of your valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), and mail it back to the address provided. Processing takes approximately four to six weeks. Your new card will be mailed to you once approved. This option works well if you have time before your expiration date and do not need your card urgently.

In-person renewal at a TWIC enrollment center costs $125 and is completed on the same day or within a few business days. You bring your current TWIC card, a valid government-issued photo ID, and proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident status (passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card). The enrollment officer will take a new digital photo, verify your information, and process your renewal when ready. You will receive your new card at the enrollment center or it will be mailed to you within a few days. Find an enrollment center near you on the TWIC website by entering your zip code.

Documents you need for renewal

Gather these items before you start your renewal, whether online or in person:

  • Your current TWIC card (or a copy if renewing by mail).
  • A valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID.
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, permanent resident card (green card), or employment authorization document (EAD).
  • A digital photo meeting TSA standards if renewing online (color headshot, white background, taken within six months, face clearly visible, no sunglasses or head coverings except religious).

If your name has changed since your last TWIC card was issued, bring legal documentation of the change such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you have changed your address, update it in your online account or provide the new address on your paper process. These updates are processed as part of your renewal and do not delay the timeline.

What happens if your card expires before you renew

If your TWIC card expires before your renewal is processed, you will not be able to use it for port access or other TSA-regulated activities. Your work authorization tied to the card will lapse. This is why starting your renewal at least two months before expiration is important—it gives you a buffer in case processing takes longer than expected or you encounter delays.

If your card has already expired, you cannot straightforward renew it. You must explore for a replacement, which involves submitting a new process and paying a replacement fee of $64.50 for mail-in or $125 for in-person processing. The replacement process is similar to renewal but is treated as a new process rather than a continuation. Contact the TWIC customer service line or visit an enrollment center to start a replacement process. Replacement processing times are the same as renewal—four to six weeks by mail or same-day in person.

Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged card

If your TWIC card is lost, stolen, or damaged and cannot be used, you must report it and explore for a replacement rather than a renewal. Call the TWIC customer service line at 1-855-99-TWIC to report the card and request a replacement process. You will need to provide your personal information and explain the situation. The replacement process follows the same steps as renewal—you can mail in your process or visit an enrollment center in person—but it is treated as a new process.

If your card was stolen, you may want to file a report with local law enforcement or your employer's security office, depending on your workplace policies. Keep the report number for your records. When you explore for the replacement, mention that the card was stolen; this information is noted in your file. The replacement fee is the same as renewal: $64.50 by mail or $125 in person.

Timeline and what to expect after you submit

If you renew by mail, expect four to six weeks for processing and delivery. If you renew in person, your new card is usually ready the same day or within a few business days. During processing, the TSA conducts a background check to may support your information has not changed and you remain may be able to access to hold a TWIC card. In most cases, renewal is approved without issues because you have already passed a thorough background check when you first received your card.

You will receive a confirmation email or letter once your renewal is submitted. Keep this confirmation until your new card arrives. If you do not receive your new card within the expected timeframe, contact the TWIC customer service line at 1-855-99-TWIC with your confirmation number and they can check the status of your process. If there are any issues with your renewal, the TSA will contact you by phone or email to request additional information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my TWIC card before the expiration date?

Yes. You can begin your renewal up to one year before your card expires. Starting early is a good idea because it ensures your new card arrives before the old one expires, with no gap in your work authorization. Most people renew between two and six months before expiration.

What if my information has changed since I got my TWIC card?

Update your information during the renewal process. If your name changed, bring legal documentation such as a marriage certificate or court order. If your address changed, update it in your online account or on your paper process. If your criminal history or immigration status has changed in a way that might affect your may be able to access, contact the TWIC customer service line before submitting your renewal.

Do I have to renew in person or can I do it entirely by mail?

You can renew entirely by mail if you prefer. Mail-in renewal costs $64.50 and takes four to six weeks. In-person renewal costs $125 and is completed the same day. Choose whichever fits your schedule and budget.

What if I move to a different state before my card expires?

Update your address in your online TWIC account or notify the enrollment center when you renew. Your TWIC card is valid nationwide, so moving does not affect your card's validity. You can renew at an enrollment center in your new state or continue with mail-in renewal to your new address.

Is there a fee to renew my TWIC card?

Yes. Mail-in renewal costs $64.50 and in-person renewal costs $125. Payment is due when you submit your process. If you renew by mail, you can pay by check, money order, or credit card. If you renew in person, the enrollment center accepts cash, check, money order, and credit card.