TSA PreCheck 2026: Skip Airport Security Lines Like a Pro

Ah, airport security—the magical process where you take off your shoes, remove your belt, dig out your laptop and liquids, and somehow leave a little piece of your dignity behind. The line seems endless, and your sense of time vanishes faster than the free snacks in the terminal.

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

Enter TSA PreCheck: a program that lets you skip long lines, keep your shoes on, and glide through security like a seasoned traveler. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or just trying to make a connection without stress, PreCheck is a game-changer. Here’s your ultimate guide to getting it and making the most of it.

1. What is TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveler program managed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). It provides expedited security screening at airports across the United States.

Benefits include:

Shorter security lines

No need to remove shoes, belts, or light jackets

Laptops and liquids stay in your bag (yay, no bin juggling!)

Available at 200+ airports and with 90+ airlines

In short, it’s designed to save time, reduce stress, and make the airport experience smoother.

2. Who Can Apply?

Not everyone qualifies. To apply, you must:

Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident

Not be on a government watchlist

Agree to a background check and fingerprinting

If you meet these requirements, you’re eligible. Otherwise, TSA PreCheck isn’t an option.

💡 Tip: Even if you’ve never flown much, PreCheck is worth considering before a big trip. It’s easier to get approved than you might think.

3. How Much Does TSA PreCheck Cost?

The program is affordable considering the convenience:

$78 for 5 years

Renewals: $70

Some premium credit cards reimburse this fee, effectively making it free.

Think about it: even if you fly once a year, that’s roughly $15–$16 per year for stress-free security.

4. How to Apply for TSA PreCheck

The application process is straightforward:

Apply online at tsa.gov/precheck

Schedule an in-person appointment at an enrollment center

Bring valid identification (passport or driver’s license) and proof of citizenship

Attend the appointment (usually 10–15 minutes) for fingerprinting and background check

Receive your Known Traveler Number (KTN) and add it to your airline accounts

Once complete, you’re ready to enjoy expedited security at participating airports.

5. Where Can You Apply?

There are 500+ enrollment centers across the U.S., including:

Major airports

Staples and other retail locations

Government buildings

Use the official locator tool: universalenroll.dhs.gov/locator
to find a center near you.

💡 Pro Tip: Some centers allow walk-ins, but it’s safer to schedule an appointment online to avoid long waits.

6. How to Get TSA PreCheck for Free

Certain credit cards reimburse the PreCheck application fee, saving you money:

Chase Sapphire Reserve

Capital One Venture

American Express Platinum

United Explorer Card

Check your card’s benefits — some reimburse PreCheck automatically once you charge the fee. This is one of the easiest ways to get the program without paying out of pocket.

7. TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry vs. CLEAR

If you travel frequently, it’s worth comparing these programs:

Program Best For Includes PreCheck Cost
PreCheck Domestic travelers Yes $78 (5 yrs)
Global Entry International + U.S. Yes $100 (5 yrs)
CLEAR Skip ID checks No $189/year

Quick tip: If you travel internationally often, Global Entry may be better — it includes TSA PreCheck plus faster customs processing. CLEAR is faster for ID verification but does not replace PreCheck lanes.

8. What to Expect at the Airport

Once approved, using PreCheck is easy:

Look for TSA PreCheck lanes at the security checkpoint.

Show your boarding pass with your KTN embedded.

Keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on.

Laptops and compliant liquids stay in your bag.

Pass through security in ~5 minutes on most days.

The difference is dramatic — what used to be a 30–60 minute hassle can take less than 10 minutes.

9. Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Even after approval, PreCheck can fail to appear if:

Your KTN isn’t added to your airline profile

You booked using a nickname or alternate name

Your PreCheck membership expired

💡 Tip: Always check your boarding pass. It should explicitly say “TSA PreCheck”. If it doesn’t, speak to an airline agent at check-in.

10. Is TSA PreCheck Worth It?

Absolutely. For most travelers, the time, stress, and frustration saved far outweigh the cost.

Even if you fly only once or twice a year, the convenience is unmatched. Long security lines, digging through luggage, and removing electronics and liquids become things of the past.

Final Tips for Maximum Benefit

Add your KTN to every airline profile you use.

Set it and forget it — the program works every time.

Use PreCheck consistently to maximize time saved.

Extra Tips for PreCheck Users

Check your boarding pass: Confirm TSA PreCheck is listed.

Keep your KTN updated: If you switch airlines, always add it to your profile.

Travel light: PreCheck is faster with fewer carry-ons.

Use PreCheck lanes during off-peak times: Even PreCheck lines are shorter early morning or late evening.

Combine with Global Entry: If traveling internationally, get the full package for maximum airport efficiency.