How to Apply for TSA PreCheck Benefits: The Complete Guide

If you are a frequent flyer, you must have heard of the term 'TSA PreCheck.' It is a part of the Transportation Security Administration that allows low-risk travelers to go through airport security faster. This initiative was introduced to improve airport security and enhance passenger travel experience. It is an important program managed by the U.S. government, which aims to improve airport security and enhance the quality of the screening process at more than 200 U.S. airports. A recent survey shows that 99% of TSA PreCheck passengers waited less than 10 minutes at airport security in 2024.

What Is TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck is a membership program that offers travelers faster access to airline boarding gates and streamlined screening that saves time. Separate, dedicated airport security lines permit passengers to check in first. According to statistics, approximately 18 million active members are eligible for TSA PreCheck benefits.

To register for the program online, you must complete an application form through the TSA website and attend a brief in-person meeting.

How TSA PreCheck Works

TSA PreCheck travelers have a dedicated line at the security checkpoint, where their carry-on items are not screened separately. They also don't need to remove their belts, shoes, or lightweight jackets like other passengers' usual process. It is for travelers with very low risk of trying criminal or unlawful strategies.

Prescreened participants have been able to expedite airport security using designated lanes with fewer screening requirements since 2013, thanks to the TSA PreCheck program. All lawful residents and U.S. citizens without a criminal record are eligible for the program.

How to Apply for TSA PreCheck?

Travelers interested in TSA PreCheck must apply online for pre-approval. The process is quite simple. Follow the steps below, and within a few clicks, it will be all done!

Step #1 - Apply Online

Go through the TSA website, select an enrollment provider near you, fill in all the details, and submit your TSA PreCheck application. It will take merely 5 minutes to complete.

Step #2 - Visit an Enrollment Centre

Visit the enrollment location to provide your fingerprints along with your identification documents. They will take a picture of you, verify the documents, and finalize the payment.

Step #3 - Get Your TSA PreCheck Number

Once approved, get your Known Traveler Number (KTN) and add it to your airline reservations. It will automatically designate you for expedited screening at TSA checkpoints.

Note:-  Only U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents are eligible to enroll in

TSA PreCheck Programme.

Benefits of TSA PreCheck

The TSA PreCheck program is highly beneficial for those who travel frequently for business or leisure reasons. It helps travelers speed through security checkpoints through faster access to airline boarding gates without the usual scanning of laptops and jackets. Benefits of TSA PreCheck include:

• A convenient prescreening procedure that enables you to prove once and for all that you are a law-abiding citizen and not up to no good.
• An expedited journey through the airport security checkpoint.
• The opportunity to save the minor hassle of putting your coat, shoes, and laptop in a bin for separate screening.
• A dedicated line for people with TSA PreCheck status.

Note: Children under 12 years do not require a separate TSA PreCheck membership. As long as they are traveling with an adult who is a member, they can use the TSA Security lanes, too.

How much does TSA PreCheck cost?

The benefits of TSA PreCheck sound great, but it is important to know about the fee to avoid last-minute disappointments. The cost ranges between $77 and $85, depending on the enrollment center. However, the online renewal fee is just $70, and you can avail of some offers with a good travel credit card score.

How to get TSA PreCheck for Free?

• Randomly issued: To introduce you to the advantages of becoming a member, you may be randomly assigned a TSA PreCheck.

• Military perks: All active members of the United States Armed Forces are eligible to get TSA PreCheck privileges by providing their Department of Defense identification number as their Known Traveler Number.

• Redeem rewards: You can use miles and points from specific airline and hotel loyalty programs, like Marriott Bonvoy and United MileagePlus, to cover the cost of your TSA PreCheck application.