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If you travel by air within the United States, TSA PreCheck can make the airport security process more convenient. This trusted traveler program allows eligible, approved passengers to use designated expedited screening lanes at participating U.S. airports. Depending on the airport and screening requirements, travelers may be able to keep their shoes, belts, and light jackets on and leave compliant laptops and certain liquids in their carry-on bags.
If you are applying for the first time, the process is relatively straightforward. You need to check your eligibility, complete a TSA PreCheck application, attend an enrollment appointment when required, and wait for approval before using the benefit.
This guide explains how to apply, what information to prepare, how much it may cost, and what to expect after submitting your application.
TSA PreCheck is a U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) program designed to help eligible travelers move through airport security more efficiently. Approved members may use dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes at participating airports when traveling with an eligible airline and when their boarding pass displays the TSA PreCheck indicator.
The program is particularly useful for people who fly regularly for work, family visits, vacations, or other personal reasons.
Depending on the airport and screening circumstances, TSA PreCheck members may receive the following benefits:
Access to dedicated expedited security screening lanes at participating airports.
Less need to remove shoes, belts, and light jackets during screening.
The ability to leave compliant laptops and certain travel-size liquids in carry-on bags.
A potentially faster and more predictable airport security experience.
Membership that generally lasts five years, subject to program rules and continued eligibility.
These benefits are not guaranteed for every flight. TSA may require additional screening, and travelers must follow all security instructions.
TSA PreCheck may be worthwhile if you frequently fly from U.S. airports or want a more convenient screening experience when traveling domestically.
U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and lawful permanent residents can generally apply, subject to the program's eligibility and security requirements. Certain other travelers may qualify through specific trusted traveler programs.
If you primarily travel internationally, compare TSA PreCheck with Global Entry. Global Entry includes expedited U.S. customs processing when returning from international travel and includes TSA PreCheck benefits for eligible members.
The first-time application process has three main stages: complete the initial application, visit an authorized enrollment location, and wait for the eligibility decision.
Before beginning your application, confirm that you meet the program requirements. The standard TSA PreCheck Application Program is open to:
U.S. citizens.
U.S. nationals.
U.S. lawful permanent residents.
Applicants must also satisfy TSA's security assessment requirements. Certain criminal offenses, security-related violations, or other disqualifying factors can affect eligibility.
If you already have Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI membership, check whether you can receive TSA PreCheck benefits through that program instead of submitting a separate application.
Visit the official TSA PreCheck website at www.flightomedia.com to select an authorized enrollment provider.
The authorized providers are IDEMIA, Telos, and CLEAR. Available locations, enrollment options, and fees can vary by provider.
During the online application, you may need to provide information such as:
Your full legal name.
Date of birth.
Contact information.
Residential address.
Citizenship or immigration-status details.
Other personal information required for identity verification and security screening.
Enter your information carefully. Your name should match the identity documents you provide and the name used on your airline reservation.
The initial online form generally takes about five minutes, although the exact time depends on your circumstances.
After starting your application, select an available enrollment location and follow the provider's instructions for completing the process.
Depending on the provider, you may be able to schedule an appointment or use a walk-in enrollment option.
Choose a location that is convenient for you, and confirm its availability before traveling there. Enrollment centers may operate inside airports, office buildings, or other designated locations.
Bring the identity and citizenship or immigration-status documents required by your selected provider. Requirements can vary depending on your circumstances, so check the provider's official document list before your appointment.
Depending on your situation, acceptable documents may include:
A valid U.S. passport.
A state-issued driver's license or identification card.
A birth certificate or other acceptable citizenship document.
A permanent resident card, where applicable.
Other approved identity or status documents listed by the provider.
Do not assume that one identification document will satisfy every requirement. Some applicants may need more than one document to establish both identity and eligibility.
At the enrollment center, a representative will verify your documents and collect the information needed to complete your application.
The visit typically takes around 10 minutes, although waiting times and individual circumstances can affect the total time.
During the appointment, you can generally expect to:
Present your required identity documents.
Confirm the information in your application.
Have your photograph taken.
Provide fingerprints for the background-check process.
Pay the enrollment fee if payment has not already been completed.
After the enrollment process, your information is submitted for the required security assessment. TSA makes the final decision about your eligibility.
Once you complete your application and enrollment appointment, monitor the contact information you provided for status updates.
Many applicants receive their Known Traveler Number (KTN) within three to five days. However, some applications can take up to 60 days or longer if additional review is necessary.
Do not assume that completing the appointment means you have been approved. Wait until your eligibility is confirmed and you receive your KTN.
If processing takes longer than expected, check your application status through the enrollment provider you used.
After approval, add your KTN to your airline booking or frequent flyer profile.
You can usually enter it in the passenger information section when booking a flight or add it to an existing reservation through the airline's website, app, or customer service.
Before traveling, check that:
Your name matches across your application and airline reservation.
Your KTN is entered correctly.
Your date of birth and other passenger information are accurate.
Your boarding pass displays the TSA PreCheck indicator.
A valid membership alone does not guarantee expedited screening on every trip. The benefit generally applies when you are eligible for the flight and the indicator appears on your boarding pass.
The price depends on the authorized enrollment provider and the available enrollment option. Providers may offer different prices or promotional arrangements.
As of October 2026, the published prices include the following examples:
Enrollment provider
New enrollment fee
IDEMIA
$79.75
Telos
$85
CLEAR
$79.95
These prices are provider-specific and may change. Check the provider's current offer before paying.
The membership generally lasts five years. If you are comparing providers, consider the total fee, available appointment locations, and convenience of completing enrollment.
Some travelers may qualify for reimbursement or payment of the enrollment fee through eligible credit card benefits, loyalty programs, or other travel benefits.
Check your credit card terms or frequent flyer program to determine whether it covers TSA PreCheck enrollment. Eligibility, reimbursement limits, and renewal conditions vary.
Do not assume that every travel credit card includes this benefit.
The process has two different timeframes: completing the application and receiving the approval decision.
Application stage
Typical timeframe
Online application
About 5 minutes
Enrollment appointment
About 10 minutes
Approval and KTN
Often 3–5 days; some cases take up to 60 days
These are general estimates, not guarantees. Appointment availability and additional background checks can affect the overall timeline.
If you have an upcoming flight, apply well in advance. You should not rely on receiving approval before a specific departure date.
A few simple precautions can help you avoid unnecessary delays.
Check your legal name, date of birth, address, and other required details before submitting the application. Even small inconsistencies can complicate identity verification.
Start at the official TSA website and follow its links to an authorized provider. Be cautious of websites that imitate government services or charge extra fees without clearly explaining their role.
Review the enrollment provider's document checklist before your appointment. Missing documentation may prevent you from completing enrollment.
You can apply before planning a trip, but you cannot use TSA PreCheck benefits simply because your application is pending. Wait for approval and make sure your KTN is correctly associated with your booking.
Even approved members must meet the applicable screening and flight requirements. Check your boarding pass before entering the security checkpoint.
Applying for TSA PreCheck for the first time is a manageable process when you understand the requirements and prepare your documents in advance. Start by checking your eligibility, complete the online application through an authorized provider, attend your enrollment appointment, and wait for approval.
Once you receive your Known Traveler Number, add it to your airline reservation and confirm that the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on your boarding pass. Taking these steps before your trip can help you make the most of the program and enjoy a more convenient airport security experience.
How do I apply for TSA PreCheck for the first time?
Visit tsa.gov/precheck, choose an authorized enrollment provider, complete the initial application, and follow the instructions for your enrollment appointment. Bring the required documents, complete identity verification and fingerprinting, pay the fee, and wait for TSA's decision.
Can I complete my entire TSA PreCheck application online?
You can generally begin the application online, but first-time applicants must complete the required in-person enrollment process. Some details, including identity verification and fingerprinting, are handled at the enrollment location.
How much does TSA PreCheck cost for a first-time applicant?
The fee depends on the authorized provider. Published examples range from $79.75 to $85 as of October 2026. Confirm the current price before enrolling.
How long does TSA PreCheck approval take?
Many applicants receive their Known Traveler Number within three to five days. Some applications take up to 60 days or longer if additional review is required.
What documents do I need for TSA PreCheck?
You need documents that satisfy the provider's identity and citizenship or immigration-status requirements. A U.S. passport may meet the requirements for many applicants, but check the official document list for your circumstances.
Can non-U.S. citizens apply for TSA PreCheck?
The standard TSA PreCheck Application Program is open to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and lawful permanent residents. Certain foreign citizens may be eligible for benefits through programs such as Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI, depending on their circumstances.
Do I need TSA PreCheck if I already have Global Entry?
Generally, no separate application is necessary. Eligible Global Entry members receive TSA PreCheck benefits, provided they enter their PASSID as their Known Traveler Number in the airline reservation and meet the applicable screening requirements.
Can I use TSA PreCheck immediately after my appointment?
No. Completing the appointment does not automatically mean you are approved. Wait for confirmation and your KTN before relying on the benefit.
Does TSA PreCheck guarantee shorter security lines?
No. It provides access to expedited screening when available and when you qualify, but queues, airport operations, and additional screening requirements can affect your experience.
How long does TSA PreCheck membership last?
Membership generally lasts five years. Check your enrollment account for the expiration date and renewal instructions.
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