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

TSA PreCheck applications happen in two places: online through the official TSA website (tsa.gov), or in person at an enrollment center. The online step comes first — you fill out your information, pay the fee, and schedule an in-person appointment. The appointment is where you show documents, get fingerprinted, and have your background checked. You cannot complete the whole process online; the in-person visit is required.

The fee is $78 to $85 depending on which enrollment center you use, and the membership lasts five years. Some credit card companies and travel programs reimburse the fee, so check your benefits before you pay out of pocket.

Key Takeaways

  • Start your process at tsa.gov, where you create an account, answer background questions, and pay the fee before booking an appointment.
  • Enrollment centers are located at major airports, some post offices, and travel agencies — use the TSA website locator to find one near you.
  • Bring a valid passport or driver's license, proof of citizenship or permanent residency, and your Social Security number to your appointment.
  • The in-person appointment takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and you receive your Known Traveler Number (KTN) when ready after approval, though your physical card arrives by mail in one to two weeks.
  • Some employers, military branches, and credit card programs cover the fee or offer reimbursement, so check before paying the full amount yourself.

How to start your process online at tsa.gov

Go to tsa.gov and click on the "explore" button in the TSA PreCheck section. You will create a login account and answer a detailed background questionnaire. The questions cover criminal history, immigration status, drug use, and other matters that affect your clearance. Answer honestly — the TSA cross-checks your answers against federal databases, and lying on the form can result in denial and a permanent record.

After you submit the questionnaire, you pay the fee using a credit or debit card. The payment is nonrefundable even if you are denied later, so make sure you meet the basic requirements before paying. Once payment clears, you will see a list of enrollment centers near you and can book an appointment online. Most centers have openings within two to four weeks, though busy airports may take longer.

Finding and booking an enrollment center appointment

The TSA website has a locator tool that shows every enrollment center in your state. Major airports usually have centers open during business hours and sometimes on weekends. Some post offices, travel agencies, and passport acceptance facilities also run TSA PreCheck appointments, often with shorter wait times than airports.

When you book, you choose a date and time that works for you. Bring your confirmation email or print it out — you will need it at check-in. If you need to reschedule, you can do that through your account on tsa.gov up to 24 hours before your appointment. If you miss your appointment without canceling, you lose your fee and have to start over.

What documents to bring to your appointment

Bring one valid government-issued photo ID (a driver's license, passport, or military ID) and proof of citizenship or permanent residency. If you are a U.S. citizen, a passport or birth certificate works. If you are a permanent resident, bring your green card or a passport from your home country plus your green card. You will also need to provide your Social Security number — the TSA uses it to run your background check.

Bring the original documents, not copies. The enrollment officer will scan or photograph them during your appointment. If you do not have the required documents, you cannot complete the appointment and will have to reschedule.

What happens during your in-person appointment

The appointment takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You check in, show your ID and citizenship documents, and answer a few questions to verify the information you provided online. The officer will take your fingerprints digitally using a scanner — this is part of the FBI background check. You will also have a photo taken for your PreCheck card.

After the appointment, the TSA runs your background check, which usually takes one to two weeks. If you are approved, you receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) when ready — the officer will give it to you before you leave, or you can find it in your TSA account. Your physical PreCheck card arrives by mail within one to two weeks after approval. You can start using your KTN at the airport right away by adding it to your airline reservation.

Fee reimbursement through employers, military, and credit cards

Some employers cover the TSA PreCheck fee for employees who travel frequently for work. Check with your human resources or travel department to see if your company reimburses the cost. The military also covers PreCheck for active-duty service members and some veterans — ask your benefits office.

Several premium credit cards reimburse the TSA PreCheck fee as part of their travel benefits. American Express Platinum, Chase Sapphire Reserve, and other high-tier cards often include this benefit. Check your card's benefits guide or call the issuer before you pay, because you may be able to charge the fee and get it back through a statement credit.

What to do if your process is denied

If the TSA denies your process, you will receive a letter explaining the reason. Common reasons include criminal convictions, immigration violations, or inconsistencies between your online answers and your background check. You have the right to request a second review — the letter will explain how to do that.

If you disagree with the denial, you can appeal through the TSA's administrative process. This takes longer and may require documentation or a hearing. If you believe the denial was based on incorrect information, gather evidence (court records, immigration documents, or other proof) and submit it with your appeal request. The TSA website has instructions for the appeal process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my KTN before my physical card arrives?

Yes. You receive your Known Traveler Number when ready after your appointment is approved, and you can add it to your airline reservation right away. The physical card is just a backup — the number is what the TSA and airlines use to identify you at security.

What if I move before my card arrives?

Update your address in your TSA account as soon as you move. The card will be forwarded to your new address if it has not shipped yet. If it has already shipped, contact the TSA to request a replacement card sent to your new address.

Do I need an appointment if I renew my PreCheck?

Renewal is simpler than the first process. You can renew online through tsa.gov without an in-person appointment, as long as your background has not changed. The renewal fee is the same as the initial fee, and your new membership starts when your current one expires.

What happens if I get arrested after I get PreCheck?

You are required to report any arrests or criminal charges to the TSA. Contact the TSA and explain the situation — depending on the charge, your PreCheck may be suspended or revoked. Failing to report can result in permanent denial of PreCheck in the future.

Can someone else pick up my PreCheck card if I am out of town?

No. The card is mailed to the address on your account and requires your signature. If you will not be home, update your address temporarily or arrange for someone to sign for it on your behalf — check your local postal service rules for how to do that.