If you travel frequently, then you know the drill: taking off your shoes and belts, emptying your pockets, and getting your carry-on bag scanned and X-rayed. But what if we told you there was a way to avoid all of that? With TSA Precheck, you can enjoy a quicker, more convenient security experience at select airports. Keep reading to learn how to get TSA Precheck and what benefits it offers.
What is TSA Precheck?
Following the September 11th, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States that derived from air travel, airport security became nationalized with a number of new safety measures that can be inconvenient for travelers and add to wait times. TSA Precheck is a program that can help pre-approved passengers move to the front of the line with limited requirements for passengers to go through.
TSA Precheck is run by Homeland Security’s Trusted Traveler Program or TTP (along with other expedited security programs.) A light evaluation is conducted before members are approved for the service that lasts five years.
How to Get TSA Precheck
To obtain TSA Precheck you’ll have to first file a Precheck application which is submitted to an FBI background check. It’s not as scary as it seems and almost everyone passes.
Once you’re approved for TSA Precheck, you will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that allows you to make use of the program. You can enter your KTN when booking flights on participating airlines like Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, and many more. At the airport, there will be a designated lane for TSA Precheck members. As an added bonus, you can even bring liquids, laptops, and shoes while passing through security. The TSA Precheck fee of $85 is good for a five-year period, so it’s worth signing up for if you will be traveling frequently during a five-year period.
The Benefits of TSA Precheck
An example of just some of those adjustments for TSA Precheck members are:
- Metal detection rather than a full-body scanner
- Laptop and electronics can stay in your carry-on luggage
- Members do not need to remove most belts, jackets, or shoes
Consider all of the time and hassle you can save by being able to quickly pass through airport security. You no longer have to worry about having to stand in long lines or take off your shoes. Plus, you also don’t have to worry about taking liquids, laptops, and other items with you. The $85 fee is a small price to pay for the convenience and comfort of using TSA Precheck. With all of these benefits in mind, getting TSA Precheck is definitely worth it.
