Are there any downsides to TSA PreCheck?

Con: It's More Intense

If you're somebody who's very private or have some things in your past you'd rather keep hidden, then opting for TSA Precheck may not be for you. It's doubtful there's a person alive who particularly enjoys a background check and a nerve- wracking interview.

Is it worth getting TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck can save you an enormous amount of time you would otherwise spend waiting in line for security. Not only can I attest to this personally, but 91% of PreCheck passengers reported waiting less than five minutes at airport security checkpoints nationwide in October alone, based on TSA data.

Is TSA PreCheck worth it in 2022?

According to users, the answer is a resounding yes. A whopping 92% of current TSA PreCheck enrollees said that the cost of the program is worth it for the time they save via shorter lines and expedited security procedures.

Does TSA PreCheck get you through security faster?

Wait 5 Minutes or Less. In January 2023, 92% of TSA PreCheck® passengers waited less than 5 min.

Why do people get rejected from TSA PreCheck?

If you commit certain violations of federal security regulations, such as assault, threat, intimidation, or interference with flight crew, physical or sexual assault or threat of physical or sexual assault of any individual on an aircraft, interference with security operations, access control violations, providing ...

Should You Get TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or CLEAR?

What are the pros and cons of TSA PreCheck?

How long does it take to get TSA PreCheck approved?

Most applicants receive approval notification in 3-5 days, though some applications can take up to 60 days. Considering this, applicants are encouraged to renew at least 60 days prior to expiry. TSA will notify members with eligibility results.

Can you skip the line with TSA PreCheck?

You can explore choices such as TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, CLEAR and Mobile Passport. These all give you the chance to skip the line and get through the airport faster. TSA PreCheck membership lets you join the shorter PreCheck lines at security.

Does TSA PreCheck work at every airport?

TSA PreCheck® is currently available at more than 200 airports with 85+ participating airlines nationwide. Eligible passengers can learn where by selecting a state or by entering airport information below. *The coronavirus pandemic is impacting airlines and airports.

What do I have to take out of my bag for TSA PreCheck?

Get through the line faster with TSA PreCheck™.

TSA PreCheck™ lets you leave your shoes, belt, and light jacket on while you go through security. You can also leave your laptop and your liquids in your bag. It costs $85 for five years—that's only $17 a year.

Which airlines do not participate in TSA PreCheck?

Most budget airlines like Frontier, Allegiant, Spirit, and Sun Country all participate in TSA PreCheck. Notable airlines that don't participate in TSA PreCheck include Aer Lingus, China Southern, China Eastern, and EgyptAir.

How many people in the US have TSA PreCheck?

WASHINGTON — The Transportation Security Administration today announced that the TSA PreCheck™ program has reached a milestone of 10 million members.

Can my wife go through TSA PreCheck with me?

If you're traveling with your family, kids 12 and under can use the TSA PreCheck lane with you, but kids 13 and up and any other adults, including a spouse or partner, must have their own TSA PreCheck membership to accompany you. Otherwise, they'll have to go through the regular security lane.

Does TSA PreCheck work 100% of the time?

No, TSA uses unpredictable security measures, both seen and unseen, throughout the airport. All travelers will be screened, and no individual is guaranteed expedited screening.

What happens after you get TSA PreCheck?

At this appointment, you'll pay your membership fee and find out if you've been approved. Once you've been approved, you'll receive a known traveler number (KTN) that you can use whenever you book a flight (you'll also receive written notification of your approval). The process can take up to three weeks to complete.

What do they ask you during TSA PreCheck interview?

If you do have any criminal history, you'll probably be asked more questions about that. You may also be asked about your employment status, how often you travel, why you want to join PreCheck and other fairly innocuous questions. Expect to be fingerprinted and have your photo taken.

How hard is it to get TSA PreCheck?

It takes five minutes to submit an online application and schedule an in-person appointment that includes a background check and fingerprinting at an enrollment center. Please note, legitimate online registration for TSA PreCheck® can begin at tsa.gov/precheck or be accomplished at tsaenrollmentbyidemia.tsa.dhs.gov.

Can you add TSA PreCheck after booking?

For existing reservations, you can manually edit each flight to add your PreCheck number before check-in or call customer service and ask that they do it for you.

Do I need to empty my pockets for TSA PreCheck?

You should look for the TSA Pre✅® lane for a quick screening. Make sure you remove your ID or identification details and boarding pass to be inspected. Make sure your pockets are empty and you are free of any bulky jewelry. Note: you can place any of your valuables in the carry-on luggage.

Why does TSA PreCheck need fingerprints?

Fingerprint-based background checks run fingerprint searches against both FBI and state criminal databases to create a complete criminal profile of the applicant.

Who automatically qualifies for TSA PreCheck?

U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents and Canadian citizens who are members of NEXUS. Members of the U.S. Armed Forces including those serving in the National Guard and reserves as well as government employees from select agencies.

Why do you have to take off your shoes at the airport?

TSA's protocols require that passengers remove their shoes so they can be screened through an X-ray machine. This stems from an incident in December 2001 when a terrorist attempted to detonate an explosive device in his shoe while onboard a flight from Europe to the United States.

Is TSA PreCheck interview in person?

Yes. You will need to provide some personal information when you fill out the TSA Precheck application. During the in-person interview, you will also be asked to answer a few basic personal questions and are expected to provide your current U.S. passport or a driver's license and birth certificate.

How do you skip the line at the airport?

Apply for TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck is one of a few government-run trusted traveler programs, designed to allow members to use expedited security lanes at more than 200 U.S. airports. With TSA PreCheck, you can speed through security without removing your shoes, laptops, belts or jacket.

Can I bring food through TSA PreCheck?

Yes, you may pack food in your carry-on or checked bag, but remember all food must undergo x-ray screening. Foods that are liquids, gels, or aerosols must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule. TSA officers make the final decision on whether certain items are permitted into the secured areas of the airport.