TSA PreCheck enrollment happens online first, then in person at an enrollment center

You start your TSA PreCheck enrollment on the official TSA PreCheck website (universalenroll.dhs.gov), where you fill out your process and pay the fee. After you submit your process online, the TSA reviews it and sends you an appointment notification. You then visit an enrollment center in person for a background check, fingerprinting, and a brief interview. The whole process takes about two weeks to two months from start to approval.

The fee is $78 to $85 depending on your state and the enrollment provider, and it covers five years of membership. You can pay during your online process. Some employers and credit card companies reimburse the fee, so check your benefits before paying out of pocket.

Key Takeaways

  • Start at universalenroll.dhs.gov, fill out your process online, and pay the fee before you book an appointment.
  • You must visit an enrollment center in person for fingerprinting and a background check; you cannot complete the process entirely online.
  • Enrollment centers are located at airports, some police departments, and other government offices—use the TSA website to find the one nearest you.
  • Bring a valid passport, driver's license, or state ID, plus proof of your address such as a utility bill or lease.
  • Approval usually takes two to four weeks after your in-person appointment, and you receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) by email once approved.

How to complete your online process

Go to universalenroll.dhs.gov and click "Enroll Now." You will create an account with an email address and password. The process asks for your personal information: full name, date of birth, citizenship status, driver's license or passport number, and address. Answer honestly about any criminal history, traffic violations, or immigration issues—the TSA conducts a thorough background check and will find discrepancies.

The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes. At the end, you pay the fee by credit card or debit card. You will receive a confirmation email with an process number. Save this number; you will need it at your in-person appointment. Do not book an appointment yet—the TSA will send you an email when your process is approved and ready for the next step.

Finding and booking your in-person appointment

Once your process is approved, you will receive an email with a link to schedule your appointment. Click that link and enter your zip code to see enrollment centers near you. Most major airports have TSA PreCheck enrollment centers, and many smaller airports do as well. Some police departments, sheriff's offices, and passport acceptance facilities also offer appointments.

Select a date and time that works for you. Appointments are usually available within one to three weeks. You will receive a confirmation email with your appointment details, location, and what to bring. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. The appointment itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

What to bring to your in-person appointment

Bring one valid government-issued photo ID: a passport, driver's license, or state ID. Bring proof of your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or legal action, bring the document that shows the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Bring your process number from your confirmation email. You do not need to print anything; the enrollment officer will look it up in the system. Wear clothing that allows access to your arms for fingerprinting. Do not wear nail polish or artificial nails on the hand used for fingerprinting, as it can interfere with the scanner.

What happens during your appointment

The enrollment officer will verify your identity using your photo ID and confirm the information on your process. They will take your fingerprints using a digital scanner—this is painless and takes a few minutes. They will ask you a few questions about your background and the information you provided on your process. They may ask why you want TSA PreCheck or whether you have traveled internationally.

The officer will take a digital photo of you for your Known Traveler Number card. The whole appointment is straightforward and low-pressure. Once it is complete, you are done. The TSA will conduct your background check over the next two to four weeks.

After your appointment: waiting for approval

The TSA will send you an email when your background check is complete and your membership is approved. This usually takes two to four weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods. Once approved, you will receive your Known Traveler Number (KTN) by email. This is a nine-character code that you use when booking flights and checking in at the airport.

You do not receive a physical card in the mail. Your KTN is all you need. Add it to your airline frequent flyer profile, and the airline will automatically include it in your reservation. At the airport, you will see "TSA PreCheck" printed on your boarding pass, and you can use the TSA PreCheck security line.

What to do if your process is denied

If the TSA denies your process, you will receive an email explaining the reason. Common reasons include criminal history, immigration violations, or false information on your process. The email will tell you whether you can appeal or reapply.

If you believe the denial was a mistake, you can request a reconsideration by contacting the TSA PreCheck program. Go to tsa.gov and look for the TSA PreCheck contact information, or call the TSA at 1-855-347-8371. Have your process number ready. The TSA will review your case, though this process can take several weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I explore for TSA PreCheck if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. You must be a lawful permanent resident or have a valid visa. You will need to provide your immigration documents during your online process. Bring your passport and visa or green card to your in-person appointment.

What if I miss my appointment?

Contact the enrollment center as soon as possible to reschedule. You can usually reschedule online through the same link where you booked your original appointment, or call the center directly. Missing an appointment does not cancel your process.

Do I need to renew TSA PreCheck?

Yes. Your membership lasts five years from the date of your in-person appointment. The TSA will send you a reminder email about 90 days before your membership expires. You can renew online without visiting an enrollment center in person, though the process and fee are similar to your initial process.

Can I use my KTN before I receive my physical card?

You do not receive a physical card. Your KTN is all you need. You can start using it as soon as you receive it by email, even if you have not traveled yet. Add it to your airline profile right away.

What if my address changes after I am approved?

Log into your account on universalenroll.dhs.gov and update your address. You do not need to reapply or visit an enrollment center. Your KTN remains the same.