“TSA PreCheck: Benefits, Costs, and How to Apply”

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What Is TSA PreCheck?

Even for the most seasoned traveler, delayed flights, expensive airport prices, and long lines can make flying a chore. While you can’t do much about some delays or upcharges, you may be able to go through security screenings much more smoothly with TSA PreCheck.

TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveler Program operated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). This program prescreens you to ensure you meet its qualifications and, if approved, you may enjoy valuable benefits, such as:

• Fast security screening: The TSA claims most travelers pass through security in under five minutes.
• Flexible screening process: As a prescreened and vetted traveler, you don’t have to remove your shoes, belts, light jackets, laptops, or liquids at the checkpoint.
• Availability: You can use TSA PreCheck at over 290 airports and more than 90 airlines.
• Access for minors: Children 17 and under can join an adult with TSA PreCheck if it’s listed on their boarding pass. Also, children aged 12 and younger can use the TSA PreCheck lanes when they’re traveling with an adult with TSA PreCheck listed on their boarding pass.

How to Get TSA PreCheck

Getting TSA PreCheck is a simple process that involves the following steps:

1. Sign up online: You can apply on the TSA site by submitting some personal information, including your contact information and driver’s license number. This process generally takes less than five minutes.
2. Attend an enrollment appointment: Towards the end of your online application, you’ll be asked to book a 10-minute appointment at an enrollment location near you. During your appointment, you’ll get fingerprinted, have your picture taken, and pay the TSA PreCheck fee.
3. Receive Your TSA PreCheck number: If approved, you’ll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN), typically in three to five days. TSA notes that some applications can take up to 60 days to process and receive your KTN. You’ll add this KTN to your future airline reservations to enjoy the privileges of TSA PreCheck, which are good for five years.

How Much Does TSA PreCheck Cost?

You’ll conclude your enrollment appointment by submitting your payment for TSA PreCheck. The price to enroll varies depending on the payment partner the enrollment location partners with, Idemia or Telos.

• Idemia: Over 600 enrollment locations at a cost of $78 for five years. The company offers online renewals at $70 and in-person renewals for $78.
• Telos: 21 active locations to enroll in TSA PreCheck at $85 for five years. Online and in-person renewals are both $70.

At $78 or $85 for five years, the annual cost for PreCheck breaks down to between $15 and $17. You don’t have to purchase a membership for your children age 12 and younger—they can join you in line at no extra cost and without restrictions. Similarly, teenagers between the ages of 13 and 17 can accompany parents or guardians on the same reservation, but the TSA PreCheck designation must be indicated on their boarding pass.

How to Decide if TSA PreCheck Is Worth It

If you travel often or shiver at the thought of waiting in line at busy airports, TSA PreCheck can be a worthwhile option, especially if you can offset or negate its cost through your credit card. However, if you rarely fly and must pay out of pocket for membership, the benefit may not be worth the cost. Weigh the following pros and cons to help you decide.

Pros of TSA PreCheck

• Availability: Since TSA PreCheck is available at nearly 300 airports nationwide and with over 90 airlines, you’re almost certain to access PreCheck benefits at domestic airports. Incidentally, the TSA advises enrolling in Global Entry rather than TSA PreCheck if you travel out of the country more than four times a year.
• Affordability: The five-year cost of PreCheck is $78 to $85, which is effectively $15.60 to $17 per year. That’s roughly the same as you might pay for a single lunch at the airport. Getting TSA PreCheck is certainly a no-brainer if your credit card reimburses you for the fee.
• Less time and hassle: Usually—but not always—the TSA PreCheck line is shorter, and you don’t have to remove your shoes and other clothing items. If you travel often, you could potentially save hours at security over several trips, leaving you more time to get to your gate or relax in the airport lounge before your flight.

Cons of TSA PreCheck

• Not always available: The TSA does not guarantee access to the TSA PreCheck line every time. Be aware that security randomly selects travelers for more scrutinized scans.
• Longer lines: TSA PreCheck is becoming more widely used, and you could experience a longer line than in years past. In some cases, the PreCheck line could even be longer than for regular security.
• Lengthy wait time for enrollment appointment: Depending on your location, your next available appointment at your local enrollment center could take a while. Many enrollment centers, particularly those at major hub airports, are booked for the year. That means you may need to visit a center farther away for a faster appointment.

The Bottom Line

TSA PreCheck can provide welcome relief when traveling, as it typically offers a shorter security line and a smoother screening process. If you rarely travel, paying the fee may not make sense for the occasional benefit. However, if your credit card reimburses you for the cost, there’s little reason not to get TSA PreCheck.

If your card doesn’t already cover the TSA PreCheck fee, consider applying for one of the best travel rewards cards. Experian’s card comparison tool can show you a personalized list of credit card offers based on your credit score, so you can apply with confidence.

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