How do I sign up for TSA PreCheck?
Trying to decide between TSA PreCheck and Global Entry? Learn the key differences, benefits, costs, and which trusted traveler program is best for you.
TSA PreCheck is a trusted traveler program that provides faster, more convenient airport security screening at over 200 U.S. airports. With TSA PreCheck, you can keep your shoes, belt, light jacket, laptop, and liquids in your bag during screening, reducing wait times to under 5 minutes on average.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to enroll in TSA PreCheck.
1. Check Your Eligibility
TSA PreCheck is available to:
U.S. citizens and U.S. lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders). Frequent travelers who want faster airport security screening. Members of other Trusted Traveler Programs like Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI (which automatically include TSA PreCheck benefits). Those without serious criminal offenses (some offenses may disqualify you).Who is NOT eligible?
Non-U.S. residents (unless part of another DHS Trusted Traveler Program).
Anyone with certain criminal convictions (e.g., violent felonies, certain drug offenses).
People with incomplete or false application information.
To check disqualifying offenses, visit: www.tsa.gov/disqualifying-offenses
2. Start the Online Application
- Visit the official TSA PreCheck website: www.tsa.gov/precheck.
- Click “Apply Now” and fill out the application form (takes about 5 minutes).
- Provide your:
- Full legal name (must match your government-issued ID).
- Date of birth.
- Citizenship information.
- Address and contact details.
- Employment information (optional).
3. Schedule an In-Person Appointment
After submitting your application, you must schedule an appointment at a TSA Enrollment Center.- There are 500+ enrollment locationsacross the U.S., including:
- Major airports
- Staples stores
- Other TSA partner locations
How to Find an Enrollment Center Near You:
Use the TSA PreCheck location tool: tsaenrollmentbyidemia.tsa.dhs.govAppointments fill up quickly, so book as soon as possible.
4. Attend Your TSA PreCheck Appointment
Your in-person appointment takes 10–15 minutes and includes: Identity verification (Bring proper identification documents). Fingerprinting for background check (conducted by the FBI). Payment of the TSA PreCheck fee ($78, valid for 5 years).What to Bring to Your Appointment
You must bring one of the following:- U.S. Passport (valid & unexpired).
- U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card).
- Driver’s License or State ID + Birth Certificate.
- Military ID + Social Security Card.
Credit/Debit Card
Money Order
Certified or Company Check
Cash and personal checks are NOT accepted.
5. Wait for Approval & Get Your Known Traveler Number (KTN)
After your appointment, TSA will process your application.- Most applicants receive approval within 3-5 days, but it can take up to 60 days.
- You will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) if approved.
- Check your application status here: tsaenrollmentbyidemia.tsa.dhs.gov/status
6. Add Your KTN to Your Airline Reservations
To use TSA PreCheck, you must add your KTN to your airline frequent flyer accounts and flight reservations.How to Add Your KTN:
✈ Log into your airline account and update your Traveler Profile.✈ Enter your KTN under “Known Traveler Number” when booking a flight.
✈ Ensure the name on your ticket matches your TSA PreCheck application exactly.
TSA PreCheck works with 85+ airlines – including Delta, American, United, Southwest, and JetBlue.
7. Enjoy TSA PreCheck Benefits at the Airport
Once approved, look for TSA PreCheck lanes at airport security.Benefits include:
✔ No need to remove: Shoes, Belts, Light jackets, Laptops, 3-1-1 Liquids.
✔ Shorter security lines (wait times average 5 minutes).
✔ Available at 200+ U.S. airports.
8. Renewing TSA PreCheck (After 5 Years)
- You can renew TSA PreCheck online up to 6 months before expiration.
- The renewal fee is $70 online or $78 in-person.
- Renew here: tsaenrollmentbyidemia.tsa.dhs.gov
TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry: Which is Better?
If you frequently travel internationally, consider Global Entry ($100 for 5 years).| Feature | TSA PreCheck | Global Entry |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $78 (5 years) | $100 (5 years) |
| Security Screening | Faster U.S. airport security | Includes TSA PreCheck |
| Expedited U.S. Customs |  No | Yes |
| Best For | Domestic travelers | International travelers |
Key Takeaways
Apply online at www.tsa.gov/precheck. Schedule an in-person appointment at a TSA enrollment center. Bring proper ID and payment ($78 for 5 years). Receive your Known Traveler Number (KTN) within 3-5 days. Add your KTN to airline reservations for TSA PreCheck benefits. Renew online after 5 years for $70.TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry: Which One is Right for You?
Both TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are Trusted Traveler Programs that help travelers speed through airport security. The key difference is that TSA PreCheck is for faster security screening in U.S. airports, while Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck PLUS expedited customs clearance for international travelers.Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide which is best for you.
TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry: Which One is Right for You?
TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry: Key Differences
| Feature | TSA PreCheck | Global Entry |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $78 (for 5 years) | $100 (for 5 years) |
| Who It's For | Domestic travelers | International travelers |
| Faster Security Screening at U.S. Airports | Yes | Yes |
| Expedited U.S. Customs for International Arrivals | No | Yes |
| Application Process | Online application + in-person appointment | Online application + in-person interview at a U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) office |
| Background Check & Fingerprints | Yes | Yes |
| Processing Time | 3–5 days (up to 60 days max) | 1–6 months (longer wait times for interviews) |
| Airports Covered | 200+ U.S. airports | All U.S. airports with international customs |
When to Choose TSA PreCheck
Best for travelers who primarily fly within the U.S. Lower cost ($78 vs. $100 for Global Entry) Faster approval time (usually 3–5 days) Over 200 airports & 85+ airlines support TSA PreCheckIdeal for:
- Business travelers who fly frequently within the U.S.
- Families (children under 12 can use TSA PreCheck with a parent for free).
- Travelers who want to avoid removing shoes, belts, and laptops at security.
When to Choose Global Entry
Best for travelers who frequently travel internationally Includes TSA PreCheck at no extra cost Expedited customs clearance at U.S. airports (no waiting in long passport control lines) Works at U.S. land borders and some international airportsIdeal for:
- International travelers who want to speed through U.S. customs.
- People who don’t mind waiting for a longer approval process.
- Frequent travelers to Mexico, Canada, Europe, or Asia.
Application Process Comparison
TSA PreCheck Application Process
Apply online at tsa.gov/precheck.
Schedule an in-person appointment at a TSA Enrollment Center.
Attend a 10-minute interview for fingerprinting and ID verification.
Receive approval within 3–5 days (sometimes up to 60 days).
Get your Known Traveler Number (KTN) and use TSA PreCheck lanes at U.S. airports.Fastest approval process!
Global Entry Application Process
Apply online at cbp.gov/global-entry. Pay the $100 application fee (covers 5 years). Wait for conditional approval (can take 1–6 months). Schedule and attend an in-person Customs and Border Protection (CBP) interview at an international airport or enrollment center. Get approved and use Global Entry kiosks at U.S. airports when returning from abroad.Takes longer, but includes TSA PreCheck!
Which One Is Worth the Money?
- If you travel only within the U.S. → Get TSA PreCheck ($78).
- If you travel internationally even once a year → Get Global Entry ($100).
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Final Verdict: Which One Should You Get?
✈ Frequent Domestic Traveler → Get TSA PreCheckFrequent International Traveler → Get Global Entry (includes TSA PreCheck)