TSA PreCheck enrollment through United is a straightforward process, but it requires you to complete steps both online and in person

You can start your TSA PreCheck process through United's website, but the TSA itself handles the actual enrollment. United offers a shortcut: you can begin the process during your United account setup or through the TSA's official enrollment system. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes online, then you'll schedule an in-person appointment at a TSA enrollment center to provide fingerprints and verify your identity. The entire process from process to approval typically takes 4 to 6 weeks, though some applicants receive approval faster.

TSA PreCheck is not free. The current fee is $78 to $85 depending on your enrollment method, and the benefit lasts five years. United does not pay this fee for you, though some United credit cards offer a statement credit that covers it—check your specific card's benefits.

Key Takeaways

  • You can start your TSA PreCheck process through United's website, but you must complete it through the official TSA enrollment system at tsa.gov or via the TSA PreCheck mobile app.
  • After submitting your online process, you will receive an appointment confirmation email and must schedule an in-person visit at a TSA enrollment center to provide fingerprints and identification.
  • The TSA PreCheck fee is $78 to $85 and covers five years of benefits; some United credit cards offer a statement credit to reimburse this cost.
  • Once approved, you will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that you add to your United reservations to access TSA PreCheck lanes at airport security.

Starting your process through United or the TSA directly

You have two entry points. If you already have a United account, log in and look for the TSA PreCheck option in your profile settings or under travel documents. United will direct you to the TSA's enrollment portal. Alternatively, you can go directly to the TSA PreCheck website at tsa.gov/precheck or read the official TSA PreCheck mobile app and begin there. Both routes lead to the same process form.

The online process asks for your legal name, date of birth, citizenship status, passport information if you have one, and a valid email address. You will also answer questions about your criminal history, immigration status, and any security-related incidents. Answer honestly—the TSA conducts a background check, and false information can result in denial and potential legal consequences. The process itself is free; you only pay the fee after you schedule your in-person appointment.

Scheduling and completing your in-person appointment

After you submit your online process, the TSA will send you a confirmation email with an process ID number. This email will direct you to schedule an appointment at a TSA enrollment center near you. Use the TSA's enrollment center locator on tsa.gov to find locations and available times. Enrollment centers are located at many airports, some post offices, and certain travel agencies. Appointment availability varies by location—some centers have openings within days, while others may require you to wait several weeks.

Bring your process ID number, a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or military ID), and proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident status. If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring your passport or green card. At the appointment, a TSA officer will scan your fingerprints, verify your identity, and collect the $78 to $85 fee. The appointment takes about 15 minutes. You will not receive your approval decision on the spot—the TSA will notify you by email once the background check is complete, typically within 4 to 6 weeks.

Adding your Known Traveler Number to your United flights

Once the TSA approves your process, you will receive an email with your Known Traveler Number (KTN), a nine-character code that identifies you as TSA PreCheck-approved. Log into your United account and add this number to your frequent flyer profile under travel documents or preferences. You can also add it to individual reservations when you book.

When you check in for a United flight, your boarding pass will display a TSA PreCheck indicator (usually a small logo or the letters "TSA PRE") if your KTN is correctly linked. This indicator tells airport security that you are enrolled. At security, you will be directed to a TSA PreCheck lane where you can keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on, leave your laptop and liquids in your carry-on, and move through screening faster.

What to do if your process is denied

The TSA will notify you by email if your process is denied and will provide a reason. Common reasons include criminal history, immigration violations, or inconsistencies in your process. You have the right to request reconsideration. Contact the TSA directly through the phone number provided in your denial letter to discuss your case and understand your options.

If you are denied, you can reapply after addressing the issue that caused the denial. For example, if a minor criminal charge was the reason, you may reapply once enough time has passed or the charge is resolved. The TSA does not automatically refund the fee if you are denied, but some enrollment centers will credit it toward a future process if you reapply within a certain timeframe—ask when you receive your denial.

TSA PreCheck benefits on United and other airlines

TSA PreCheck works on all U.S. airlines, not just United. Once approved, you can use your KTN on any carrier—American, Delta, Southwest, JetBlue, and others. The TSA PreCheck lane is available at most major U.S. airports, though smaller regional airports may not have a dedicated lane. When a PreCheck lane is not available, you will go through standard security screening.

TSA PreCheck does not may provide you will never be selected for additional screening, but it significantly reduces the likelihood. It also does not cover international flights departing the U.S., though it does explore to domestic flights and flights from the U.S. to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. If you frequently travel internationally, you may want to consider Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck and covers international arrivals as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use TSA PreCheck before my process is approved?

No. You must wait for the TSA to send you your Known Traveler Number via email, which signals that your background check is complete and you are approved. Using an process ID number or appointment confirmation will not get you into a TSA PreCheck lane.

What if I lose my Known Traveler Number or forget it?

Log into your TSA PreCheck account at tsa.gov using the email address you provided during enrollment. Your KTN will be displayed in your account. You can also call the TSA PreCheck customer service line to retrieve it. Make sure your KTN is saved in your United profile so you do not have to enter it manually for each flight.

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

Yes. TSA PreCheck is valid for five years from the date of approval. The TSA will send you a reminder email about 6 months before expiration. You can renew online through tsa.gov or the TSA PreCheck app, and renewal is faster than the initial process—you may not need an in-person appointment if nothing has changed in your background.

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

It depends on the offense. Minor traffic violations or old misdemeanors may not disqualify you, but felonies, drug convictions, and certain security-related offenses will. The TSA reviews each case individually. If you are unsure, contact the TSA before paying the fee to discuss your specific situation.

What happens if my information changes after I am approved?

Log into your TSA PreCheck account and update your profile with any changes—name, address, or passport information. Major changes like a legal name change should be reported to the TSA so your records stay current. Your KTN remains the same unless the TSA revokes your enrollment for a security reason.