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How to get TSA PreCheck®

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Quick insights

  • TSA PreCheck is a government-run Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) designed to help expedite airport security screenings.
  • Travelers can apply for TSA PreCheck online, but must pay an application fee.
  • Those apply for the first time must complete their application and pay in person at a TSA enrollment center.

Airports are busy, crowded and your time is precious. So what are your options? You probably don't want to get there hours ahead of time or wait in long lines ahead of your flight. TSA PreCheck can help streamline your airport experience by allowing you to access expedited security screening lanes. 

Members of this Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) tend to enjoy more efficient airport security lines. Also, with TSA PreCheck, you typically don't have to remove certain items you're wearing or have packed in a carry-on bag. Let's review how you can get TSA PreCheck.

How do you get TSA PreCheck?

To apply for TSA PreCheck, you must complete an application, visit an enrollment center and pay an application fee. Applications are typically processed within a few weeks. That timeline, however, depends mainly on your availability for an in-person appointment and your proximity to a TSA PreCheck enrollment center.

Apply for TSA PreCheck

You can begin an online application at the TSA.gov/PreCheck., Opens overlay After entering some identifying information, you will be asked to verify that you're eligible for the program by answering several questions about your citizenship, residency and any criminal records. 

Completing an online application may be an ideal way to start getting TSA PreCheck, as the application sets you up nicely for the vital next step: the in-person appointment.

Schedule an appointment to visit an enrollment center

When you complete an online application, you can schedule an in-person appointment. You can choose the enrollment center you're able to visit and one of the available times.

At your appointment, a professional will collect payment, verify the physical copies of your documents and take your fingerprints. This completes the application process and begins the application review period.

You can also apply for TSA PreCheck in person at an enrollment center. However, appointments are not guaranteed and you may need to wait to be seen. Scheduled appointments are prioritized over walk-ins. Whether you schedule your visit or walk in, specific documentation will need to be presented in person.

Bring the correct documentation to your appointment

You'll choose the documents you plan to bring when completing an online application. You can check the TSA website for information on identification documentation that will be required, Opens overlay.

You will have to provide original or certified copies of documents unless the TSA requirements state otherwise.

How long does it take to get TSA PreCheck?

The online application for TSA PreCheck can generally be completed quickly, but the timing of your in-person appointment can vary. It depends on your availability and the availability at your preferred TSA PreCheck enrollment center.

These appointments are usually brief. You present your documents, submit to a background check and have your fingerprints taken. After that, most applicants receive a status update in 3 to 5 days, though some reviews can take up to 60 days. 

When you apply online, you may be able to request ongoing updates on your enrollment status by email, phone or an online portal.

Can I get TSA PreCheck for free?

Although TSA PreCheck is not free, some travel credit cards will reimburse you with a statement credit for the application fee. Contact your credit card company or check your card's terms to see if this benefit is available to you. One such card that offers a statement credit for the TSA PreCheck application fee is Chase Sapphire Reserve® , though the card does have an annual fee. Cardmembers can receive a reimbursement statement credit when they use their Sapphire Reserve card to pay for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry or NEXUS application fees.

The application fee is nonrefundable and covers the costs of background checks and fingerprinting. You can check with your specific enrollment provider to see what types of payment methods are accepted.

Additional ways to get TSA PreCheck

Before applying for TSA PreCheck, consider similar trusted traveler programs: 

  • Global Entry: Travelers with a Global Entry membership can use expedited screening lanes when entering U.S. Customs and Border Protection. TSA PreCheck is also included in Global Entry membership. 
  • NEXUS or SENTRI: Similar to Global Entry, travelers who are enrolled in either of these programs are also enrolled in TSA PreCheck. 

Although membership to these other programs can get you TSA PreCheck, each program allows different things and has different eligibility requirements and enrollment processes. Review these points carefully when considering which program is right for you.

In summary

A program that can save you time at the airport like TSA PreCheck might reduce the stress of your airport experience. The online application is one way to start the application process, and you can also walk in to an enrollment center. However, scheduled appointments are prioritized ahead of walk-ins.

Eventually, you'll have to attend a brief in-person appointment, pay the application fee and bring certain forms of ID. If your application is approved, you may start adding TSA PreCheck to your flight tickets and begin experiencing TSA PreCheck at the airport. 

Although the TSA PreCheck application fee is nonrefundable, many travel credit cards reimburse it, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card.

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