How To Get TSA Precheck (And Is It Worth It?)

If you’ve traveled through an airport over the past few years, chances are, you’ve longingly glanced at the TSA Precheck line as you’ve waited in the longer, regular line. I was hesitant to apply for TSA Precheck because I wasn’t sure if I needed it. So, I wanted to wait a bit to see how TSA Precheck would work.

After I started traveling more frequently, I finally decided to apply, and have found TSA Precheck to be worth it. Here’s how to get TSA Precheck and find out if it’s worth it for you.

Note that this post is for informational purposes only. Be sure to check the details with official sources before you depart.

How To Get TSA Precheck (And Is It Worth It?)

What is TSA Precheck?

TSA Precheck is an expedited security program run by the TSA where low-risk travelers can apply for an expedited security process at the airport. Those with TSA Precheck do not need to take off shoes, belts, and light coats, and don’t need to remove laptops or their liquids (note that the 3-1-1 liquid rule still applies).

The whole security process is generally more pleasant, and shorter, although it’s important to know that the TSA still can make you go through regular security if necessary. In addition, the lines aren’t guaranteed to be shorter.

It’s currently available in 200+ airports and with 90+ airlines. You can check with your specific airline, but I’ve found that the vast majority of US airports I’ve flown through have offered some form of a TSA PreCheck line.

It’s important to know that you aren’t always guaranteed to get TSA PreCheck. If it’s not printed on your boarding pass, you won’t have it. When I flew through Sarasota a few years ago, it wasn’t printed on my boarding pass even though the airline had my information, and I wasn’t able to go through the TSA PreCheck line. I even had it on the way there, but just didn’t have it on the way back on my roundtrip flight.

In addition, some airports simply don’t offer it. When I was in Denver last year for my Vail trip, the TSA PreCheck line was closed because it was later at night (I was flying a red-eye back home).

When I flew through Asheville, NC, they didn’t offer TSA PreCheck. I’m not sure if that’s still the case, but, it’s good to know this in advance so you pack appropriately.

How to Get TSA Precheck

Getting TSA Precheck was easier than I expected. I thought that I would need to go to my local airport (which isn’t very convenient), but there are lots of suburban locations that you can visit.

When you register for TSA PreCheck, you’ll be able to choose from several vendors. There’s a slight price difference, but you’ll be able to look for the vendor with the locations closest to you. Some are located conveniently, in places like Staples.

At the appointment, I was fingerprinted and interviewed for just a few minutes. You’ll also need to bring specific documentation. Once a decision is made, a letter will be mailed to your home.

I was also provided with a website where I could check on the progress. I received my decision letter with my known traveler number shortly after applying. Note that those with global entry and other trusted traveler programs do not need to apply because you can use your global entry number as your known traveler number.

How does TSA Precheck Work?

Once you are approved, you’ll be provided with a Known Traveler Number. You can add the number to your frequent flyer profiles on any of the participating airlines, or you can add it when you check in.

Your boarding pass will print with the TSA Pre✓^® logo. As you head to the security checkpoint, find the TSA Pre✓^® sign, and show the security agent your boarding pass. I’ve found the whole process to be easy.

Kids 12 and under traveling with an eligible parent can go through the TSA Precheck line with their parent. Kids over 13 need to apply always to be able to go through the line. However, when traveling with their parents (who have TSA PreCheck), kids often have it printed on their boarding pass too.

Once my daughter turned 13, she applied for her Known Traveler Number just to ensure she’d always have it. When traveling alone, kids will need to have TSA Precheck.

It’s not good enough to just HAVE TSA Precheck. You also need to make sure you have it listed in your reservation.

How to Get TSA Precheck for Free

Currently, TSA Precheck costs between $78 to $85 for a five-year membership. But, there are some ways that you can get TSA precheck for free. Some credit cards will reimburse your fee if you apply.

I was able to get my fee reimbursed, so it made the decision to get it even easier. Check with your credit card to see if that is a benefit to your card.

Is TSA Precheck Worth it?

With all of the traveling that I do, TSA Precheck is worth it. It does depend on how much traveling you do. If you frequently travel internationally, it may be better to apply for global entry, because you can also use that number as your Known Traveler Number. And, if you only fly once or twice a year, it may not be worth the time and money to get TSA Precheck.

Is Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Better?

Global Entry allows travelers to go through an expedited line when returning to the US by air. It’s required for every traveler going through the line, even children (of any age). If you have it, you’ll also be able to use TSA PreCheck.

However, TSA Precheck doesn’t give you global entry. In my opinion, if you are planning to travel internationally, it may be a better idea to get global entry since you can use it for both programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

To learn more and apply, visit the official TSA website.