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It's an airport scenario most travelers know well. As you walk up to the security checkpoint, you're presented with two options. On one side is a long, winding line of travelers crawling slowly toward the screening area. On the other side, the TSA PreCheck line is often short and takes far less time to pass through.
TSA PreCheck privileges can make airline travel smoother and get you to your gate more quickly than traditional security screening. Thinking about getting TSA PreCheck and whether it's worth it? Here's how TSA PreCheck works and how to get it.
What Is TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck is a government program for travelers who are deemed low security risks by the Transportation Security Agency (TSA), the agency that handles security screening at U.S. airports. PreCheck uses designated security lanes at airports where the screening process is much more streamlined compared with traditional security lanes. PreCheck passengers usually do not have to remove their shoes, belts or light jackets and can leave laptops and liquids of approved sizes in their bags.
TSA PreCheck screening is less stringent because these travelers have already completed a security background check as part of the TSA PreCheck application process. If you're approved, you can join the 99% of TSA PreCheck travelers who get through security in less than 10 minutes, according to TSA data. Also, any minors under 18 traveling with you can accompany you through the TSA security checkpoint.
What Is the Difference Between TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and CLEAR?
Before applying for TSA PreCheck, consider if you might benefit more with Global Entry, especially if you travel internationally, or CLEAR. Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program that allows low-risk travelers to use quicker customs and immigration lines when entering the country. CLEAR is a private program that offers expedited security screening with a dedicated line that verifies your identity with eye or fingerprint scanning.
While TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and CLEAR offer a faster screening process, there are some differences between the programs.
| TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry vs. CLEAR | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| TSA PreCheck | Global Entry | CLEAR | |
| Benefit | Doesn't require you to remove shoes, jackets, laptops or liquids, allowing for faster screening | TSA PreCheck security screening plus faster customs screenings when re-entering the United States from certain countries | Allows you to go through a faster line to verify your ID and boarding pass at the security checkpoint |
| Application fee | Varies by application servicer from $77.95 to $85 for new applications | $100 | $189 |
| Membership term | 5 years | 5 years | 1 year |
| Expedited screening process applies to minor children accompanying you | Yes | No; all travelers must have Global Entry membership | Yes |
| Credit card benefits | Some credit cards cover application fee | Some credit cards cover application fee | Some credit cards cover application fee |
Should I Get TSA PreCheck, Global Entry or CLEAR?
Global Entry is typically the better option for international travelers, as it can expedite the U.S. customs process when reentering the U.S. from another country, and it also includes TSA PreCheck benefits.
On the other hand, TSA PreCheck generally costs $15 to $31 less than Global Entry, depending on the application servicer and whether you're a first-time applicant or renewing your membership. It may also be all you need if you strictly travel within the United States.
CLEAR is the most costly option and is only in a limited number of airports, making it less appealing than TSA PreCheck for most travelers. You'll also still need to follow the standard security process of removing liquids and taking off personal items. CLEAR works best when paired with TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, though that involves a higher cost.
How Much Does TSA PreCheck Cost?
TSA works with three servicers to enroll travelers in TSA PreCheck. Here are the costs and number of application locations for each provider:
- Idemia: Cost to apply is $78 at over 620 locations. Renewals are $70 online or $78 in person.
- Telos: Cost to apply is $85 at over 100 locations. Renewals are $70.
- Clear: Cost to apply is $77.95 at 50 locations. Renewals are $68.95 online or $77.95 in person.
What Do You Need for TSA PreCheck?
When interviewing for TSA PreCheck, you must submit identification. Make sure you have the required documents with you for the interview or you may not be approved. TSA advises you to submit one of the following documents:
- Current U.S. passport (book or card)
- Current enhanced tribal card (ETC)
- Current Free and Secure Trade (FAST) card
- Current U.S. enhanced driver's license (EDL) or enhanced identification card (EID)
- Permanent resident card (I-551, or green card)
- Current foreign passport and immigrant visa with I-551 annotation of "Upon Endorsement Serves as Temporary I-551 Evidencing Permanent Residence of 1 Year"
- Current re-entry permit (I-327)
If you don't have any of the preceding forms of identification, the agency requires you to have two others. You'll need a valid photo ID, such as a current government-issued driver's license, photo ID card or U.S. military card. You'll also need proof of citizenship in the form of a U.S. birth certificate, Certificate of Naturalization or a U.S. Citizen Identification Card. The TSA provides this exhaustive list of required identification documents for more information.
How to Get TSA PreCheck
You may be eligible for TSA PreCheck if you're a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident. There are no age limits or requirements, but minors under 18 can use the PreCheck lanes when traveling with a parent or guardian who is a member. If you're ready to start enjoying the privileges of the TSA PreCheck program, follow these steps to apply:
1. Apply Online on the TSA Website
The first step to get TSA PreCheck is to fill out and submit an application on the TSA website. You may apply with one of three enrollment providers: Idemia, Telos or CLEAR. The TSA provides a search tool to help you locate an enrollment provider near you.
Once you've decided on a provider, you'll need to click on "Apply" and follow the prompts. You'll be asked to provide personal information including your date of birth, current address, criminal history and so forth. The process is relatively straightforward and can be completed in around five minutes. If the TSA reviews your application and decides to approve you, it will be conditional until you complete the other steps in this process.
2. Schedule an Enrollment Interview
Once you are conditionally approved, you will need to schedule an appointment at an enrollment center. There are over 750 enrollment locations around the country. You can find the one closest to you by entering your city, ZIP code or closest airport. While you can visit an enrollment center without an appointment, it could result in a longer wait time than if you schedule your appointment online. Don't forget to bring your identification documents with you.
During the in-person interview, you'll answer a few questions, submit your identification documents and provide biometric data, including your fingerprints and picture. Finally, you'll submit payment for the application. Remember, many airline credit cards and some travel cards cover the application fees for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. If your card offers this perk, be sure to charge the application fee to that card so you can get reimbursed.
3. Wait for Approval
Most applications are approved in three to five days, according to the TSA, but the process can take up to 60 days. Given this timeframe, you should apply at least two months before you plan to travel or before your current membership expires to avoid any disruptions.
Once approved, TSA will send you an approval notice with your Known Traveler Number (KTN). It's a good idea to write this number down and keep it in your wallet or your mobile phone's notes app in case you need it when booking a flight or checking in at the airport.
4. Register With Airlines
Even if you are approved for TSA PreCheck and receive a Known Traveler Number, you don't get automatic access to TSA PreCheck lanes when traveling. Before you head to the airport, log in to your accounts with various airlines and add your Known Traveler Number to your profile. That way, your number should automatically be added to your air reservations and for the TSA PreCheck logo to appear on your boarding passes. If you forget to do so, you can always ask a check-in agent at the airport to add your Known Traveler Number to your reservation while traveling.
5. Renew Every Five Years
TSA PreCheck membership lasts five years, but you can renew your membership online up to six months before your current TSA PreCheck status expires so your eligibility continues without interruption. If you've changed your name since you first enrolled, contact your enrollment center to update your name or complete the renewal process at their location. Renewal fees vary by enrollment center from $68.95 to $70.
Is TSA PreCheck Worth It?
Deciding whether TSA PreCheck is worth it may depend on how often you travel. If you rarely travel and don't mind a longer security screening process when you do, then TSA PreCheck may not be worth the extra cost for you. Then again, if your credit card reimburses your application fee, there's essentially no reason not to enroll and receive the added convenience when you do travel.
For frequent travelers, TSA PreCheck will almost always be worth it. For instance, let's say you travel three times per year and you decide to pay $78 to enroll in TSA PreCheck through Idemia for five years. In this case, you'd go through security checkpoints at least 30 times over five years (accounting for both departure and return flights) and pay about $2.60 per trip. That's a paltry cost to receive the benefits of TSA PreCheck, including faster security screenings and less hassle. And it could be especially valuable during holidays and other peak travel times.
Learn more >> Is TSA PreCheck Worth It?
Frequently Asked Questions
Travel credit cards offer the simplest path to free TSA PreCheck benefits. Many of these cards offer an application fee credit when you use the card to pay for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. Of course, you'll want to check your card's benefits guide, as conditions may apply. For example, most cards only reimburse the enrollment fee every four or five years.
The easiest way to determine when your current PreCheck membership expires is to check the expiration date on the TSA website. Additionally, you should begin receiving periodic notifications beginning around six months before your TSA PreCheck membership expires.
You'll have to renew your TSA PreCheck membership every five years if you want to continue to receive the program's benefits. Renew your membership at least six months before your membership expires to make sure there are no interruptions to your benefits.
Application approval times vary, but most applicants receive a decision within three to five days, while others may wait for up to 60 days. If you're planning to travel in the next six months and want to take advantage of TSA PreCheck benefits, apply as soon as possible to improve your chances of approval before your trip.
The Bottom Line
TSA PreCheck is a valuable program that allows travelers to enjoy expedited security screening lines when traveling within the U.S. For a reasonable fee, joining TSA PreCheck can save you a lot of time at the airport and make the whole flying experience much less stressful.
Check your credit card's terms and conditions to see if it covers the TSA PreCheck fee. If it does, the decision whether to get TSA PreCheck becomes a no-brainer. If it doesn't, you might consider applying for one of the best travel rewards cards. Compare card features and benefits quickly and easily with Experian's card comparison tool, which matches you with a personalized list of credit cards based on your credit profile.