Guide to the TSA PreCheck® application process
Quick insights
- The TSA PreCheck application process includes an online application, background check and in-person interview appointment.
- U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can apply for TSA PreCheck but approval is not guaranteed.
- There is no guaranteed way to expedite the application process.
TSA PreCheck is a program that allows passengers to potentially expedite airport screenings by accessing designated security screening lanes at the airport. Those with TSA PreCheck have access to less intrusive airport screening and generally do not have to remove shoes, light jackets or belts while going through airport security.
Travelers need to apply to be considered for TSA PreCheck status. If you’ve thought about applying, read on to learn more about the application process and how long it usually takes.
Understanding the TSA PreCheck application process
TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) where members may be able to experience streamlined security screenings prior to most domestic and select international flights. That's partly because travelers using TSA PreCheck lanes typically do not have to remove belts, shoes or lightweight jackets at security screenings.
U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can apply for TSA PreCheck. All first-time applicants are subject to:
- A background check
- Finger printing
- An in-person appointment at an enrollment center
The center is where applicants will submit their required documentation, get fingerprinted and pay their application fee.
TSA PreCheck approval is not guaranteed. If you are denied TSA PreCheck status when using a credit card that offers TTP application reimbursement as a benefit, your application fee will not be refunded. There are various reasons your application can be denied, but common ones include:
- Failure to meet eligibility requirements
- Criminal offenses
- Security or immigration violations
If you are approved, your TSA PreCheck status will be valid for five years before it’s subject to renewal.
Steps to get TSA PreCheck
Interested in TSA PreCheck? Here are a few steps you can take if you choose to apply:
- Step 1: Confirm eligibility. Ensure you meet the TSA PreCheck eligibility requirements.
- Step 2: Complete the online application. Fill out the online application and schedule an appointment at a TSA PreCheck enrollment center.
- Step 3: Attend the appointment. Bring the necessary documents to the appointment for identity and citizenship/immigration verification.
- Step 4: Wait for approval. After the appointment, wait for TSA to process the application and conduct your background check.
- Step 5: Receive Known Traveler Number. If approved, you will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that you can use when booking flights.
You may be able to combine steps 2 and 3 outlined above.
Some TSA enrollment centers allow for same-day walk-in appointments where you can fill out the application and meet with an agent. However, the availability of same-day appointments is not guaranteed and those with scheduled appointments may experience shorter wait times.
How long TSA PreCheck applications take
The TSA PreCheck application process includes the application, in-person appointment and processing times.
The online application typically takes 5-10 minutes, and the in-person appointment typically takes 10-15 minutes, which includes:
- The submission of your required documents
- Fingerprinting
- Paying the application fee.
The average processing time for TSA PreCheck is typically 2-3 weeks but can vary depending on factors such as the volume of applications and background check delays.
If approved, most applicants receive their KTN in 3-5 days, though some applications can take up to 60 days. You will receive a notification by email or phone with instructions on retrieving your KTN online. You may also check your application status online.
To use TSA PreCheck lanes, you will need to add your KTN to your reservation. This will display the TSA PreCheck indicator logo on your boarding pass. At security, you will be directed to the TSA PreCheck lanes.
How to expedite the TSA PreCheck process
There is no guaranteed way to expedite your TSA PreCheck application but there are a few steps you can take to help avoid unnecessary delays:
Verify your documents
Providing valid documentation and identification is a necessary part of the approval process. You may want to double check TSA guidelines to ensure you have all of the necessary documents prior to your appointment to avoid delays.
Visit an enrollment center
If your TSA in-person appointment is further out than you’d like, some enrollment centers accept walk-in appointments. You can potentially speed up the process by getting a same-day appointment at an enrollment center. These appointments are subject to availability.
Check your application status
If you’re concerned about wait times and delays, you can check the status of your application online which may help you spot issues quickly that could lead to a delay in your approval.
In summary
Some TTPs can take months to process applications. However, applying for and receiving TSA PreCheck status decision generally takes less than two months. You can schedule your in-person appointment as soon as you’ve completed your online application and may have your PreCheck status approved in just a few weeks.
Once you have TSA PreCheck, you may be able to update your existing airline reservations with this information, so the next time you go through airport screening you could make your way to a TSA PreCheck lane.
