Jun 11, 20233 min read

TSA Precheck... The Hidden Key to Effortless Travel

Updated: Oct 20, 2023

What exactly is TSA PreCheck:

The formal definition;

An expedited security screening program connecting travelers departing from the United States with smarter security and a better air travel experience. TSA PreCheck allows low- risk travelers to experience quick, efficient screening at participating U.S. airport checkpoints.

The informal definition;

Moms, Dads, and Kid Free Adults... traveling through TSA....

YOU DO NOT HAVE TO REMOVE YOUR SHOES, BELTS, LIGHT JACKETS, LAPTOPS OR 3-1-1 compliant liquids.

You have already done the pre-work to exclude you from this process in most cases. You can move through a line designated for TSA PreCheck holders ONLY. This creates a shorter and in turn much faster line. You get to skip ahead.

To get TSA PreCheck

You have to take a series of steps including BUT not limited to... filling out an application online, setting up an in person appointment to show the proper documentation (things like your state issued ID, passports and/or birth certificates) and to be finger printed.

*There is a Enrollment fee which as of today 6/11/23 is $78 for a 5 year Enrollment.

Once approved For TSA PreCheck

You will receive what is called a Known Traveler Number (KTN)

A Known Traveler Number is issued to all individuals approved to receive a TSA PreCheck expedited screening.

IMPORTANT: Your KTN must be added in the KTN field when booking airline travel reservations to have the TSA PreCheck indicator visible on your boarding pass. For TSA PreCheck members this is typically a 9 digit number and can be a combination of numbers and letters that typically begin with TT.

FAQ

Below are the answers to our top Frequently Asked Questions regarding TSA PreCheck.

We used direct excerpts from the TSA PreCheck website;

Each question is a clickable link that will direct you to the FAQ Page to self verify any answers and to view questions not listed here.

Do my Children Need To Apply For TSA PreCheck ?

Children of all ages are eligible to enroll in TSA PreCheck. Children traveling with a parent or guardian enrolled in TSA PreCheck may automatically receive TSA PreCheck benefits without enrolling:

Children 12 and under may accompany an enrolled parent or guardian in the TSA PreCheck lanes even if the TSA PreCheck indicator is not on their boarding pass.
Children 13-17 may join enrolled parent or guardian in the TSA PreCheck lane when traveling on the same reservation and if the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on the child’s boarding pass.
Children 17 and under who will be traveling alone or without a TSA PreCheck eligible parent or guardian should apply for their own TSA PreCheck benefits.

How Long Does in-person enrollment take ?

An average in-person enrollment will take approximately 9-12 minutes. This does not include potential wait time at the enrollment site prior to being serviced or travel time to get to the enrollment center. In-person enrollment may take less time if you have pre-enrolled with your biographic information online before visiting the enrollment center to complete the application. You should factor possible wait time when planning a visit to the enrollment site or make an appointment by calling the UES Call Center at 855-DHS-UES1 (855-347-8371) Monday through Friday from 8 AM-10 PM (Eastern).

How long does it take to get approved ?

Most applicants receive their Known Traveler Number KTN in 3-5 days, though some applications can take up to 60 days. Applicants may check their application status online .

Click Here to be directed to the TSA PreCheck Help Center.

CLICK HERE to be directed to the TSA PreCheck Application.

*All information is deemed reliable but subject to changes and corrections. Our blogs are meant to be a guide to point you in the right direction.