You’ve seen the signs in the airport, but what is TSA PreCheck and is it really worth it? TSA PreCheck allows eligible, low-risk travelers to enjoy expedited security screening at over 200 airports in the United States.
We have been members of TSA’s PreCheck program for several years now. I honestly can’t imagine flying domestically without it. There have been a few times I couldn’t use it and I noticed the difference big time! The top advantages for me are short lines, no need to take off your shoes and no need to remove anything from your bags. In the past I regularly waited for 30 minutes or more in line at a TSA checkpoint. Now we whiz in and out of the airport and sometimes don’t even wait to pass through security.
When you apply for TSA PreCheck, you agree to be fully background screened by TSA in advance of future travel. By doing so, TSA anticipates your arrival at the airport and can allow you certain benefits when passing through security, like keeping your shoes on. Once approved, a known traveler number is assigned to you. This number is TSA’s way of keeping track of you. You’ll provide this number to the airline when you book a flight so that they can get you approved in advance of your arrival at the airport.
I put together a list of pros and cons as well as specific information about applying to help you decide if TSA PreCheck is a good choice for you. Here’s everything you need to know.
Pros:
- There is usually a significantly shorter line to get through security, which means less time standing in line. In fact according to TSA, in July 2021, 96% of TSA PreCheck passengers waited less than 5 minutes!
- You do not need to take off your shoes, no matter how old you are. This is great if you’re traveling with kids and don’t want to spend a ton of time preparing yourself while they’re wandering around. It’s also great if you’re wearing sandals or shoes without socks.
- No need to take your laptop out of your bag. Not only a time saver, but it prevents you from having to unpack and repack your bag.
- You also do not need to remove your 4 oz liquids or gels.
- You do not need to take off your belt, light jacket or sweater.
Cons:
- Not every airport and airline participate in the TSA PreCheck program, but I have only encountered this once, when we were flying Qantas. Because they are not a US carrier, they do not participate in the program, so we had to go through regular security in San Francisco.
- The name on your ticket must match the name associated with your known traveler number exactly. Typically, this isn’t a problem, but you need to be aware of that if you get married, change your name, etc.
- If your airline did not get your approved more than 24 hours ahead of your flight, you will not be able to use PreCheck. Just make sure you add your known traveler number to your itinerary as soon as you book.
Who Can Apply?
US Citizens or Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR) who have not been convicted of certain crimes are eligible to apply.
How Do You Apply?
Applying is easy. You can complete the application online. Everyone who applies will need to also complete an in person interview and fingerprinting at a US airport.
TSA PreCheck is also included with Global Entry, NEXUS and SENTRI programs. TSA PreCheck is currently $85 for 5 years and can be renewed online six months prior to expiration. It is sometimes offered as a promotion on travel credit cards, so double check if you have one.
For us TSA PreCheck has been a game changer at the airport and I can’t imagine flying without it. Have you used it?
