🛫 How to Apply for TSA PreCheck
TSA PreCheck provides expedited security screening at participating U.S. airports and airlines for eligible travelers. Start only from TSA.gov/PreCheck, which links to approved enrollment providers.
Applicants pre-enroll, choose a provider and location, pay the provider's fee, and attend an in-person appointment for identity documents and fingerprints. Fees and appointment availability vary by provider.
Approval is not guaranteed. Once approved, add the Known Traveler Number (KTN) to the correct field in airline reservations and loyalty profiles; the name and date of birth should match the travel document.
📋 Documents you'll need
- Unexpired identity and citizenship or immigration documents accepted by the enrollment provider
- Legal name, date of birth, address, and contact information
- Payment method for the enrollment fee
- Name-change documents if current identity records use different names
🪜 Step-by-step
- Open TSA.gov/PreCheck and compare the official enrollment providers.
- Complete pre-enrollment on the provider reached from TSA.gov.
- Choose an enrollment location and appointment, if required.
- Review the provider's document list and bring original acceptable documents.
- Attend the appointment for identity verification, fingerprints, photo, and payment.
- Check application status through the official provider or TSA link.
- After approval, add the KTN to airline profiles and every reservation.
- Confirm the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on the boarding pass before entering the lane.
| Estimated cost | Enrollment and renewal fees vary by official provider. Membership is generally valid for five years; confirm current pricing on TSA.gov. |
|---|---|
| Typical timeline | Many applicants receive a KTN within days, but TSA advises that some applications can take much longer. Apply well before planned travel. |
Frequently asked questions
Does TSA PreCheck guarantee expedited screening?
No. Eligibility and screening are determined for each trip, and passengers remain subject to security procedures.
Can children use the lane with an enrolled adult?
Rules depend on the child's age and reservation. Review current family guidance on TSA.gov before travel.
What if my KTN is not on the boarding pass?
Check that the KTN, full name, and date of birth in the reservation exactly match enrollment records, then contact the airline if needed.