The Basic Steps to Enroll in TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck enrollment happens in two parts: you fill out an online form and pay a fee, then you go to an enrollment center in person for fingerprinting and a brief interview. The whole process takes about 10 to 15 minutes at the center, though you may wait for an appointment. You'll receive your Known Traveler Number (KTN) by mail within two to three weeks after your in-person visit, and you can use it on plane tickets right away.

The fee is $78 to $85 depending on which enrollment provider you use, and it covers five years of membership. Some credit cards and travel programs reimburse this fee, so check your benefits before paying out of pocket.

Key Takeaways

  • You must complete an online process first, then schedule and attend an in-person appointment at an enrollment center to provide fingerprints and identification.
  • The enrollment fee is $78 to $85 and covers five years; you can use your Known Traveler Number on tickets as soon as you receive it by mail.
  • Enrollment centers are located at most major airports and some other locations like post offices and police departments—check the TSA website to find one near you.
  • You need a valid passport, driver's license, or state ID, plus proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident status to complete the in-person step.
  • Processing takes two to three weeks after your appointment, but you can add your KTN to future bookings when ready once you receive it.

Starting Your Online process

Go to the official TSA PreCheck enrollment website and create an account using your email address. You'll answer questions about your background, travel history, and criminal history. Answer honestly—the TSA conducts background checks, and false information can disqualify you or result in denial of future enrollment.

The online form takes about 10 minutes. You don't need to complete it all at once; you can save your progress and return later. Once you finish and submit, you'll receive a confirmation number by email.

Finding and Booking an Enrollment Center Appointment

After submitting your online form, log back into your account and search for enrollment centers near you by zip code or city. Most major airports have centers, and many cities also have locations at post offices, police departments, or private enrollment facilities. Appointment availability varies by location—some centers book weeks out, while others have same-day slots.

Select a date and time that works for you. You'll receive a confirmation email with your appointment details, the center's address, and a list of documents to bring. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early.

What to Bring to Your In-Person Appointment

Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, naturalization papers, or permanent resident card. You also need a current government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license or state ID. Bring your Social Security card or a document that shows your Social Security number, such as a tax return or W-2.

Bring the confirmation email from your appointment booking and any other documents the enrollment center listed in your confirmation. If you've changed your name, bring a certified copy of the legal document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) that shows the change.

What Happens During Your Appointment

The officer will review your documents, verify your identity, and take your fingerprints digitally. They'll ask you questions about your background and may ask why you're interested in PreCheck. This is a straightforward process—the interview is not an interrogation, and the officer is checking that your online answers match your documents and your story.

The whole appointment takes 10 to 15 minutes. You'll pay the enrollment fee by credit card, debit card, or money order at this time. Once you leave, your background check begins. You'll receive an email when the TSA has made a decision, usually within two to three weeks.

Using Your Known Traveler Number Once You Receive It

The TSA will mail your KTN to the address you provided during enrollment. When you book a flight, enter your KTN in the "Known Traveler Number" field on the airline's website or when you call to book. You can also add it to your frequent flyer profile so it automatically appears on future bookings.

Once your KTN is on your ticket, you'll see "TSA Pre✓" printed on your boarding pass at check-in. This means you can go through the expedited security line at the airport—you can keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on, and you don't need to remove your laptop or liquids from your bag.

What to Do If Your process Is Denied

If the TSA denies your process, you'll receive a letter explaining the reason. Common reasons include criminal history, immigration status issues, or inconsistencies between your online form and your documents. You have 30 days to request a second review by submitting additional information or correcting errors.

Contact the enrollment center where you had your appointment to ask how to request a review. You can also call the TSA PreCheck customer service line for guidance on next steps. If you're denied a second time, you can reapply after one year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use TSA PreCheck internationally?

TSA PreCheck only works at U.S. airports and for flights departing the United States. If you travel internationally often, you may want to also consider Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck and covers 190 countries. Global Entry costs $100 for five years.

What if I can't make my scheduled appointment?

Log into your account and cancel your appointment at least 24 hours before the scheduled time. You can then book a new appointment at a different center or date. If you miss an appointment without canceling, you may lose your fee and have to reapply.

Do I need to renew my TSA PreCheck before it expires?

Yes. You can renew starting 6 months before your membership expires. Renewal is faster than initial enrollment—you may be able to renew by mail or online without visiting a center, depending on your circumstances. Check the TSA website for renewal options.

Can my children enroll in TSA PreCheck?

Children under 16 can be included on a parent's or guardian's TSA PreCheck membership at no additional cost. Children 16 and older must enroll separately and pay the full fee. Bring your child's birth certificate and ID to your appointment if you want to add them.

What if my address changes after I enroll?

Log into your TSA PreCheck account and update your address before your KTN is mailed. If your KTN was already mailed to your old address, contact the enrollment center to request it be reissued to your new address.