You explore for TSA PreCheck at an enrollment center, either in person or online through the official TSA website

TSA PreCheck applications happen in two stages: you start online at tsa.gov/precheck, then visit an enrollment center in person to verify your identity and get fingerprinted. The online part takes about 10 minutes. The in-person appointment is where the actual enrollment happens — that is when TSA confirms who you are and collects your biometric data.

You cannot complete the entire process online or by mail. Both steps are required. The online process comes first because it speeds up your in-person visit and costs less than explore only at the center.

Key Takeaways

  • Start your process at tsa.gov/precheck, then book an in-person appointment at an enrollment center near you.
  • Enrollment centers are located at airports, post offices, and some police departments — search the TSA website to find one in your area.
  • Bring a valid passport, driver's license, or state ID, plus proof of your address such as a utility bill or lease.
  • The in-person appointment takes 10 to 15 minutes and includes fingerprinting and a background check review.
  • TSA PreCheck costs $78 to $85 depending on the enrollment center, and the membership lasts five years.

Finding an enrollment center near you

The TSA website has a searchable map of all enrollment centers. Go to tsa.gov/precheck, click "Find an Enrollment Center," and enter your city or zip code. The map shows the address, hours, and whether appointments are currently available.

Most enrollment centers are at major airports in the security checkpoint area. Some are at post offices, and a few operate at police departments or other government offices. Hours vary — airport centers often stay open early and late, while post office locations may close by 5 p.m. or not be open on weekends.

If no centers are near you, check whether a neighboring city has one. Many people drive 30 to 60 minutes to the nearest location rather than wait for a new center to open in their area.

What documents to bring to your appointment

Bring one form of government-issued photo ID — a valid passport, driver's license, or state ID card. This is the document TSA uses to verify your identity against their records.

You also need proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. A piece of mail from a government agency also counts. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, bring a signed letter from them saying you live there, plus a copy of the bill.

Bring your Social Security number written down or memorized. You will need it during the appointment. If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the legal document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

How the in-person appointment works

When you arrive, an enrollment agent reviews the information you entered online and checks it against your ID and address proof. They will ask you questions about your background and criminal history to confirm what you reported. This is not an interview — it is a verification step.

Next, they take your fingerprints digitally using a scanner. This is sent to the FBI for a background check. You will also have your photo taken for your TSA PreCheck card.

The whole process takes 10 to 15 minutes. You pay the fee at this point — most centers take credit cards, debit cards, and cash. You receive a receipt with your process number. Your card arrives by mail in about two weeks, though some people receive it faster.

Cost and how long membership lasts

TSA PreCheck costs between $78 and $85 depending on which enrollment center you use. A few centers charge slightly more, so check the fee when you book your appointment. The price includes the background check and the five-year membership card.

Your membership is valid for five years from the date you complete your in-person appointment. You can renew it online for $70 to $85 about four months before it expires, or explore in person again at an enrollment center.

What happens if your appointment is far away or fully booked

If the nearest center has no appointments for months, check centers in neighboring cities or states. Some people book an appointment during a trip or vacation rather than wait. You can also check back weekly — cancellations open up regularly as people reschedule.

A few enrollment centers offer walk-in appointments on a first-come, first-served basis, though this is rare. Call the center directly to ask whether they accept walk-ins before you show up.

If you are traveling soon and cannot get an appointment in time, you can still use TSA PreCheck benefits if you have your receipt from the online process. Show the receipt at the airport security checkpoint along with your ID — TSA will let you through PreCheck screening while your card is in the mail. This works for most major airports, though it is worth calling your airport's TSA office to confirm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew TSA PreCheck online?

Yes, you can renew online about four months before your card expires. You will not need to visit an enrollment center unless TSA asks you to come in for a new background check, which is rare. The online renewal costs $70 to $85 and takes about two weeks to process.

What if I do not have a passport or state ID?

You need one form of government-issued photo ID to enroll. If you do not have a driver's license or passport, you can get a state ID card from your state's DMV or equivalent office. This usually takes one to two weeks. A passport takes longer, so a state ID is the faster route.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card?

No. You only need to know your Social Security number. Bring your actual Social Security card only if you are worried you will forget the number — the enrollment agent does not need to see the card itself.

Can someone else pick up my TSA PreCheck card if I am not home?

No. TSA PreCheck cards are mailed as regular mail, not signature-required. If you are not home when it arrives, it sits in your mailbox. If you are concerned about mail theft, you can have mail held at your post office for pickup, or ask a trusted neighbor to collect it.

What if I moved after I applied but before my card arrived?

Contact TSA with your new address as soon as possible. You can update it through your TSA PreCheck account on the website, or call the TSA PreCheck customer service line. If your card is already in the mail to your old address, TSA can sometimes intercept it and reroute it, but this depends on timing.