How to Get TSA Precheck : Your Comprehensive Guide

More than a billion people every year fly through airport security systems around the world. Worried about the long lines at airport security?

If you’re like most people, you hate going through airport security. The long lines, the intrusive pat-downs… it’s enough to make anyone dread flying.

But what if there was a way to skip all that? That’s where TSA Precheck comes in. TSA Precheck can help you get through the checkpoint faster. It’s an expedited screening program that allows travelers to leave on their shoes, light outerwear and belt, and keep their laptop in its case and their liquids in a carry-on bag.

In this blog post, we will discuss how to get TSA Precheck for 2022!. You will learn everything you need to know about TSA Precheck – from what it is and who is eligible, to how to apply and what benefits come with membership. You will also find tips on how to make the most of your time at the checkpoint.

TSA Precheck 101

What is TSA precheck?

TSA Precheck is a program that allows travelers to go through security faster and with less hassle. It is an expedited screening program that allows travelers to leave on their shoes, light outerwear and belt, and keep their laptop in its case and their liquids in a carry-on bag.

While the TSA may use unpredictable security measures throughout an airport, they do provide some guarantees. All travelers will be screened and there is no guarantee of expedited screening for any individual traveler .

However, for those who are interested in TSA Precheck, there is an application process that if successful, will provide the traveler with expedited screening for a five year period.

Benefits of TSA Precheck

Once you are approved for TSA Precheck, you will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN). You can use this number when booking flights to automatically be eligible for expedited screening. When you arrive at the airport, look for the TSA Precheck line and proceed to the designated lane.

At the checkpoint, you will not need to remove your shoes, belts, or light jackets. You will also be able to keep your laptop in its case and your liquids in a carry-on bag.

Benefit 1: Families Welcome

TSA Precheck is available for families traveling with children 12 and under. When you are approved for TSA Precheck, your child will automatically be eligible to participate in the program. You do not need to appl y for them separately.

When you arrive at the airport, look for the family lane at the security checkpoint. You and your family will be able to go through the checkpoint together.

TSA Precheck is a great way to make traveling easier for you and your family. It can help you avoid long lines and intrusive pat-downs.

Benefit 2: Wait 5 Minutes or Less

If you’re approved for TSA Precheck, you’ll be able to go through the security checkpoint quickly and without having to remove your shoes, belt or light jacket. You will also be able to keep your laptop in its case and liquids in a carry-on bag. This makes traveling much easier and less stressful.

In February 2022, my wife and I took our three children to the airport for a quick family vacation. We had just purchased TSA PreCheck® so it was exciting that they were all able to go through security without having any problems!

In the statement made by the TSA at tsa.gov, They claim that “By February 2022, 94 percent of TSA PreCheck® passengers would wait less than 5 minutes.”

Benefit 3: Available at over 200 airports

TSA Precheck is available at over 200 airports nationwide, and the program is always expanding. This means that no matter where you’re traveling, you’re likely to be able to take advantage of TSA Precheck’s expedited screening.

If you are a lawful permanent resident, naturalized citizen, or nonimmigrant alien, asylee, or refugee who is in legal status in the United States, you can apply.

Check Status

You can check your status online at any time.

Note: You can have your card mailed to your home address or you can pick it up at the application center.

If you have any questions about the renewal process, you can contact the DHS directly at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE (1-866-347-2423). You can also find more information on the TWIC website.

Also Read: Which item is a benefit of using the travel card?

How do I Get TSA Precheck

Who can apply for TSA PreCheck®?

To be eligible for TSA Precheck, you must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national or lawful permanent resident. You also need to have no disqualifying criminal convictions or pending criminal charges. In addition, you cannot be on any terrorist watchlists and you must not pose a threat to aviation security.

If you meet all of the eligibility requirements, you can begin the application process by creating an account on the TSA website.

Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI allow some foreign citizens to apply. You can find more information on all programs here.

The Trusted Traveler Programs are risk-based programs to facilitate the entry of preapproved travelers. All applicants go through a rigorous screening process that ensures they meet qualification requirements for whichever program it is they’re applying with, but receiving an “best match” or recommendation based on eligibility alone won’t guarantee acceptance into any given one!

How to Get TSA Precheck

There is no need to apply for PreCheck If you already have a Global Entry, NEXUS or SENTRI card, or hold an active TWIC or Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with an HME and meet the TSA eligibility requirements.

TSA Precheck Cost / Fee

How much does TSA PreCheck cost?

The cost is $85 for a five-year membership.

How much does TSA PreCheck Renewal Fee?

Effective Oct. 1, 2021. The TSA PreCheck Online Renewal fee is $70 for a five-year membership.

How do I get TSA PreCheck for free?

1. Use points or miles

Some loyalty programs, such as United MileagePlus and Marriott Bonvoy, offer cards that allow you to use points or miles to pay for the application fee.

If you don’t have enough points or miles to cover the full fee, you can use them to pay for part of it and then pay the rest with a credit card.

Check your loyalty program’s website or contact customer service to see if this option is available.

2. Consider credit cards that include TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.

The great thing about Global Entry is that it includes all the benefits of TSA PreCheck, so if you ever need to travel internationally then this would be your best bet.

But there are some downsides too – since both programs only cover one type each for travelers’ traveling needs (i.e., US residents can’t use their cards at international airports).

Here are the top credit cards for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry:

The Arvest Visa Signature® Credit Card

The Arvest Visa Signature® Credit Card reimburses up to $100 for either Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees.

HSBC Premier Credit Card

One of the card’s features is a $85 statement credit every five years to reimburse for TSA PreCheck application fees. HSBC also offers a $0 annual fee.

Also Read: Twic Card Renewal Guide: Quick and Easy!

TSA PreCheck® Enrollment Center Near Me

Enrollment centers are not open on weekends, so make sure to plan accordingly.

FAQs

Do I Have To Comply With The TSA?

You will most likely have to pass through a TSA security checkpoint to access your flight. You are required by law and the TSA to go through screening during the airport security process.

When Should I Arrive at the Airport Before My Flight Departs?

There are no regulations from the Transportation Security Administration suggesting when you should arrive at the airport. TSA recommends that passengers contact their airline if they’re unsure about anything, as times may differ depending on the airport and date of travel.

Is it possible to secure my checked luggage, and if so, how?

Yes, your luggage can be locked. However, in order for TSA screeners to access it if it is selected for inspection, you’ll need to use a TSA-approved lock.
If you don’t use this sort of lock, TSA inspectors will just chop through the locks you have in place. You can purchase TSA-approved locks at most major retailers, as well as at the airport.

What Can I Expect During Pat-Down Screening?

Before and throughout the screening, the TSA officer will describe the procedure. The screener will be of the same gender as you. You are entitled to a private screening at any time during the scanning process, and you can have anyone you choose accompany you.

Because a pat-down check is done to see whether prohibited items are hidden beneath clothing, enough pressure must be applied to ensure detection. If you have a medical issue or any tender spots when touched, inform the officer.

Will Children Receive a Pat-Down Screening?

If you’re traveling with a child under 12, it’s important to know the new screening criteria. If an alarm is triggered during security check-in at one of our airports today (or anytime), then TSA personnel will work directly with parents until everything can be resolved gracefully.

Find out more about how TSA screens children

Final Words

There are a few different ways to get TSA Precheck. The most common way is to apply for it when you book your flight. You can also apply for it at the airport, but this will usually cost more.

If you’re a frequent traveler, you may want to consider signing up for a membership program like Global Entry or NEXUS. These programs offer a number of benefits, including TSA Precheck. Memberships typically cost around $100 and are good for five years.

If you travel often, they can be well worth the investment. Keep in mind that not all airlines participate in TSA Precheck, so make sure to check before you book your flight.