Is it worth it to pay for 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.

Does TSA PreCheck actually save time?

With TSA PreCheck®, not only will you experience shorter wait times, but you won't have to go through any of those pesky things like rummaging through your carry-on for liquids, gels and aerosols or taking your laptop out of its bag.

Are there any downsides to TSA PreCheck?

Con: It's More Intense

The enrollment process can seem daunting to those with busy pre-travel schedules or general unease in certain circumstances. For example, interviews are required that must be done well ahead of the travel time.

How much faster is TSA Pre?

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

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.

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

How do I get TSA PreCheck for free?

The best way to get TSA PreCheck for free is by carrying an eligible credit card. Dozens of credit cards reimburse the TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fee if you use that card to pay upfront.

What documents do I need to get TSA PreCheck?

Valid Photo ID

Unexpired photo ID card issued by the federal government or by a State or outlying possession of the U.S. This must include a federal agency, State or State agency seal or logo (such as a State university ID). Permits are not considered valid identity documents (such as gun permits).

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 send a card?

No, there is no TSA PreCheck card. Travelers should enter their Known Traveler Number in their airline reservation to receive a TSA PreCheck® indicator on their boarding pass.

Which is better Global Entry or TSA PreCheck?

If you travel internationally four or more times a year, consider enrolling in Global Entry. If you take less than four international trips a year, TSA PreCheck is a great choice for domestic travelers.

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 ...

Does TSA PreCheck work with every airline?

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.

Why do people get denied TSA PreCheck?

Dishonesty, fraud, or misrepresentation, including identity fraud and money laundering, where the money laundering is related to a crime listed in Parts A or B (except welfare fraud and passing bad checks). Bribery. Smuggling. Immigration violations.

Can I bring my spouse through TSA PreCheck?

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.

What does boarding pass look like with TSA PreCheck?

You'll see “TSA Pre” on your boarding pass. You cannot use the TSA PreCheck lane if your boarding pass doesn't say TSA Pre. Even if you have proof of membership (like a Global Entry card), you can't just walk through the TSA PreCheck lane and flash your credentials at the security officer.

Do you give fingerprints for TSA PreCheck?

To apply for TSA PreCheck®, travelers must go in-person to an enrollment center to provide documentation and fingerprints. Applicants pay a non-refundable $85 fee to cover the cost of background checks.

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.

What happens at TSA PreCheck interview?

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.

What to wear to TSA PreCheck interview?

Generally, an interview calls for you to wear professional attire. That said, a TSA PreCheck interview is pretty informal, so you can likely get away with dressing casually.

What questions do they ask in 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 much does TSA PreCheck cost total?

The application fee for TSA PreCheck® is $78 for 5 years. Before you apply, we recommend that you review the various DHS trusted traveler programs, such as the TSA PreCheck® Application Program, Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI, to ensure you meet the eligibility requirements and determine the best program for you.

Who automatically qualifies for TSA PreCheck?

The TSA PreCheck® Application Program is only open to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals and lawful permanent residents.

How much is TSA PreCheck annual fee?

Online TSA PreCheck® renewals require a nonrefundable renewal fee of $70. In person TSA PreCheck® renewals completed at an enrollment center require a nonrefundable renewal fee of $78.

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.

Does TSA PreCheck make it easier to get Global Entry?

For a one-time fee of $100, TSA PreCheck holders can upgrade to Global Entry to get all the benefits of TSA PreCheck plus easier entry to the U.S. upon coming back from abroad with Global Entry.