You can sign up for TSA PreCheck through the official TSA website or at enrollment centers across the country

The fastest way to start the process is to visit tsa.gov/precheck and create an account. You will answer questions about your background, pay the fee (currently $78 to $85 depending on how you pay), and schedule an in-person appointment at a nearby enrollment center. The online part takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You cannot complete the entire process online — you must visit a center in person for fingerprinting and a brief interview, which usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

If you prefer to start in person instead, you can walk into most enrollment centers without an appointment, though scheduling ahead online saves you time. Either way, you will need to bring a valid passport, driver's license, or state ID, plus proof of your address (a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days works). The in-person visit is where TSA takes your fingerprints and confirms your identity.

Key Takeaways

  • Start your TSA PreCheck process at tsa.gov/precheck, where you create an account, answer background questions, and pay the fee online.
  • You must visit an enrollment center in person for fingerprinting and identity verification; this appointment usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Bring a valid ID (passport or driver's license) and proof of your current address (utility bill or lease from the last 60 days) to your appointment.
  • Enrollment centers are located at airports, some post offices, and other facilities; use the TSA website to find the one nearest you and check their hours.
  • After your appointment, TSA typically notifies you of approval or denial within two to three weeks, though some cases take longer.

Finding an enrollment center near you

TSA maintains a searchable map on tsa.gov/precheck that shows every enrollment center location, hours, and whether they accept walk-ins. Most centers are at major airports, but many are also at post offices, pharmacies, and travel agencies. Enter your zip code or city to see what is available within a reasonable distance.

Hours vary widely — some centers are open only during business hours on weekdays, while others offer evening or weekend appointments. If you live in a rural area, the nearest center may be 30 to 60 miles away. Check the specific center's page before you go, because some require you to schedule online first, while others accept walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis.

What to bring to your in-person appointment

You will need one form of valid government-issued photo ID. A U.S. passport, driver's license, or state ID all work. If your ID is expired, most centers will still accept it as long as it was not expired when you submitted your online process.

You also need proof that you live at the address you listed in your online process. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days will work. If you recently moved and your documents show an old address, bring a second document (like a forwarding notice from the post office) that shows your current address. Do not bring originals of important documents — bring copies or be prepared to leave them with TSA.

How to pay the TSA PreCheck fee

The fee is $78 if you pay by credit or debit card during your online process, or $85 if you pay in cash at the enrollment center. Some centers also accept checks. You pay once during the process process — there is no additional fee at your in-person appointment.

If you are a member of certain programs (Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI), you may already have TSA PreCheck included and do not need to pay again. Check your membership details or ask at the enrollment center. Some employers and credit card companies also offer to reimburse the fee — check your benefits before you pay out of pocket.

What happens after your appointment

TSA reviews your background check and fingerprints after your appointment. Most people receive a decision within two to three weeks. You will get an email notification telling you whether you were approved, denied, or need to provide more information. If approved, you will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that you use when booking flights.

If TSA needs more information from you, they will tell you how to submit it — usually by uploading documents to your online account or mailing them to a TSA address. Do not ignore these requests, because your process will not move forward until TSA receives what they asked for. If you are denied, the notification will explain why and tell you how to appeal.

Renewing your TSA PreCheck membership

TSA PreCheck is valid for five years from the date you were approved. About four months before it expires, you can renew online at tsa.gov/precheck without visiting an enrollment center. The renewal fee is the same as the initial fee. If you wait until after it expires, you will have to go through the full process again, including the in-person appointment.

You can check your membership status and expiration date by logging into your TSA PreCheck account on the website. Set a calendar reminder for four months before your expiration date so you do not forget to renew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I schedule an appointment online or do I have to walk in?

Most enrollment centers let you schedule online, and many prefer it because it reduces wait times. Some centers accept walk-ins, but you may wait 30 minutes to an hour. Check your nearest center's page on tsa.gov/precheck to see whether scheduling is required or optional.

What if I do not have a passport or driver's license?

You need one form of valid government-issued photo ID. A state ID card, military ID, or passport card all work. If you do not have any of these, you will need to get one before you can complete your TSA PreCheck appointment.

How long does the whole process take from start to finish?

The online process takes 10 to 15 minutes. Your in-person appointment takes another 10 to 15 minutes. TSA then takes two to three weeks to review your background and notify you of approval. In total, plan for about three to four weeks from when you start your online process to when you receive your Known Traveler Number.

Can I use TSA PreCheck at international airports?

TSA PreCheck works at U.S. airports and on flights departing the United States. It does not work at foreign airports or on international flights operated by non-U.S. carriers. If you travel internationally often, you may want to look into Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck and also speeds up customs when you return to the U.S.