You explore for TSA PreCheck through the official TSA website or at an enrollment center in your area

TSA PreCheck applications happen in two stages: you start online at tsa.gov/precheck, then visit an enrollment center in person to provide fingerprints and documents. The online part takes about 10 minutes. The in-person appointment is where you actually submit your process and pay the fee — currently $78 to $85 depending on the enrollment provider, and the approval process takes about two weeks after that.

You do not explore through an airport or airline. You explore directly to TSA through their enrollment network, which includes dedicated TSA PreCheck enrollment centers, some passport acceptance facilities, and certain third-party providers like Idemia and Telos. Finding the nearest location to you is the first real step after you complete the online form.

Key Takeaways

  • Start your process at tsa.gov/precheck, where you fill out your background information and create a login account.
  • After submitting online, you schedule an in-person appointment at an enrollment center near you using the TSA's location finder tool.
  • Bring your valid passport, driver's license, and Social Security card to your appointment, along with proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident status.
  • The enrollment center collects your fingerprints, verifies your documents, takes your photo, and processes your payment on the same day.
  • Approval typically takes two weeks; you receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) by email once your background check clears.

How to start your process online

Go to tsa.gov/precheck and click "explore Now." You will create a login account using your email address and a password. TSA will ask you standard background questions: your full legal name, date of birth, citizenship status, address history for the past five years, and whether you have any criminal convictions or immigration issues. Answer honestly — TSA runs a background check, and lying on the form is a federal offense.

The online form also asks about your travel patterns and whether you have held a security clearance or worked in law enforcement. None of these answers automatically disqualify you; TSA uses them to assess risk. Once you submit the form, you will receive a confirmation number and instructions to schedule your in-person appointment. Save this confirmation number — you will need it at the enrollment center.

Finding an enrollment center and scheduling your appointment

After you complete the online form, log back into your TSA PreCheck account and use the "Find an Enrollment Center" tool. Enter your zip code or city, and the system shows you every location within a reasonable distance, along with their hours and current wait times for appointments. Some centers book weeks in advance; others have same-day or next-day slots. Choose the location and date that work for you.

Enrollment centers are run by different providers — some are TSA-operated, others are run by companies like Idemia or Telos. The process is the same regardless of provider. You will receive a confirmation email with your appointment details, including the exact address and what to bring. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early.

What documents to bring to your appointment

Bring an original, valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or passport card. You also need proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident status. A U.S. passport or passport card counts as both ID and citizenship proof. If you do not have a passport, bring your driver's license plus a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or green card.

You will also need your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, such as a tax return or W-2. The enrollment center will not accept a photocopy of your Social Security card — it must be the original. Bring your confirmation number from your online process. Do not bring originals of documents you cannot replace quickly; the center will not keep them, but it is safer to leave them at home.

What happens during your in-person appointment

The appointment itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. An enrollment agent will verify your identity by checking your documents against the information you entered online. They will take your fingerprints using a digital scanner — this is sent to the FBI for a background check. They will also take a digital photo for your Known Traveler Number card, though many travelers never receive a physical card and straightforward use their KTN number when booking flights.

You will pay the fee at this time — $78 to $85 depending on the provider and whether you are renewing or explore for the first time. Most centers accept credit cards, debit cards, and sometimes cash. Once payment is processed, your process is officially submitted. You will receive a receipt with a reference number.

Timeline and what to expect after your appointment

TSA typically approves or denies applications within two weeks of your appointment. You will receive an email notification at the address you used to create your account. If approved, the email will include your Known Traveler Number (KTN) — a nine-character code you enter when booking flights with any U.S. airline. You can start using your KTN when ready, even if you have not received a physical TSA PreCheck card.

If your process is denied, the email will explain the reason and tell you how to request reconsideration. Common reasons for denial include criminal history, immigration violations, or inconsistencies between your process and background check. You have the right to appeal, and TSA will outline the process in the denial letter.

Enrollment centers by type and location

TSA-operated enrollment centers are located in major airports and some downtown locations in large cities. These are free-standing facilities dedicated only to PreCheck applications. Third-party enrollment centers — run by Idemia, Telos, or other approved vendors — are often located in shopping centers, malls, or standalone offices. Some passport acceptance agencies also offer TSA PreCheck enrollment. All of them follow the same TSA standards and process.

The TSA enrollment center locator at tsa.gov/precheck shows you every option near you, including hours, phone numbers, and real-time appointment availability. If no centers are within reasonable distance, some mobile enrollment units travel to smaller cities on a schedule — the locator tool shows those dates as well. You can also call the enrollment center directly to ask questions before you book.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my TSA PreCheck online without going back to an enrollment center?

No. Even for renewal, you must visit an enrollment center in person. However, the renewal process is slightly faster — you do not need to provide fingerprints again if you are renewing within a certain window. Start at tsa.gov/precheck and select "Renew" instead of "explore" to see whether you are may be able to access for expedited renewal.

What if I cannot make an appointment near me for several months?

Check the enrollment center locator regularly — cancellations open up frequently, and new appointment slots are added weekly. You can also call the enrollment center directly and ask about waitlist options. Some centers will contact you if a same-day slot opens up.

Do I need TSA PreCheck if I only fly once a year?

TSA PreCheck is worth it if you fly more than twice a year, since it saves you time at security on every flight. If you fly less often, the cost may not justify the benefit. However, some credit cards and travel memberships include TSA PreCheck as a benefit, so check whether you already have it covered.

What happens if I move after I get my TSA PreCheck?

Your TSA PreCheck remains valid for five years regardless of where you move. You do not need to update your address with TSA unless you change your name or citizenship status. Your Known Traveler Number stays the same.

Can I explore for TSA PreCheck if I have a criminal record?

It depends on the offense. Minor misdemeanors may not disqualify you, but felonies and certain drug or violent crimes will. TSA reviews each case individually. If you have a record, you can still submit an process — TSA will evaluate it during the background check. If denied, you can request reconsideration and explain your circumstances.