TSA PreCheck Guide: Cost, Benefits and How to Enroll
How TSA PreCheck works and how to sign up, from TSA.gov.
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TSA PreCheck puts trusted travelers in dedicated lanes. TSA says about 99% of PreCheck passengers wait less than 10 minutes.
What you skip
In a PreCheck lane you leave electronics and 3-1-1 liquids in your bag, and keep on belts, light jackets and shoes.
How to enroll
- Apply online in as little as 5 minutes with an authorized provider: CLEAR, IDEMIA or Telos. TSA lists more than 1,300 enrollment locations across the three.
- Finish in person. The provider checks your documents and takes fingerprints, a photo and payment in about 10 minutes.
- Use your Known Traveler Number (KTN). Add it to airline reservations and profiles so the PreCheck indicator prints on your boarding pass.
Families
Children 17 and under can go through PreCheck with an enrolled adult at no cost.
Kids in the PreCheck lane
The TSA says children generally do not need their own PreCheck membership unless they often travel alone. The rules depend on age:
| Age | TSA rule |
|---|---|
| 12 and under | Can use the PreCheck lane with a parent or guardian whose boarding pass shows the PreCheck indicator. The child’s pass does not need it. |
| 13 to 17 | Can use the lane only if their own boarding pass shows the indicator. They must be on the same reservation as the adult whose pass has it. |
| Child on a separate reservation, no KTN | Not eligible for PreCheck screening |
If your child does not have a KTN, the TSA says to leave the KTN field blank on the reservation. Do not enter yours.
If the indicator is missing
The TSA FAQ suggests checking in this order:
- Use TSA’s KTN lookup tool to confirm your membership has not expired.
- If it is active, confirm with your airline that your KTN, name and date of birth all match.
- If the indicator is still missing, contact AskTSA on X or Facebook Messenger, text “Travel” to 275-872, or call the TSA Contact Center.
Nothing is guaranteed
The TSA says it uses unpredictable security measures throughout the airport. Every traveler is screened, and no one is guaranteed expedited screening, even with a valid KTN.
Staying eligible
Members go through recurring criminal history checks. The TSA FAQ says a temporary suspension from those checks usually resolves in under 30 days but can take up to 90. Some violations can lead to suspension or disqualification. These include bringing a firearm, explosive or other prohibited item to an airport, interfering with security or the flight crew, and using false documents. The TSA says a first-offense suspension can last up to five years, and serious or repeat cases can be permanent. Reviewing what you can’t carry on protects your membership as well as your bag.
Renewing
Renew through any of the three providers (CLEAR, IDEMIA or Telos). TSA’s renewal page links each one and has a KTN lookup for members who need their number. Check the provider’s own site for current terms.
What PreCheck does not change
You still need acceptable ID. The 3-1-1 limits still apply. You just keep the bag closed.
Frequently asked questions
How much does TSA PreCheck cost?
TSA says five years of benefits cost $85 or less, depending on the enrollment provider.
Can my kids use my PreCheck lane?
Yes. TSA says children 17 and under can join an adult in the PreCheck lane for free.
Is expedited screening guaranteed?
No. TSA says no individual is guaranteed expedited screening.
