TSA PreCheck costs $76.75 for your first 5-year membership. The TSA PreCheck renewal cost is even cheaper at $58.75 online or $66.75 in-person. If you fly more than twice a year or strongly value your time, TSA PreCheck can absolutely be a worthwhile investment.
Airport security lines: where vacation vibes dim and patience is tested by the minute. But what if you could skip past all that drama for less than the cost of a nice dinner?
For savvy travelers, investing in TSA PreCheck can be the ultimate travel hack, letting you breeze through the security line with your shoes on and dignity intact. So, at $76.75 for 5 years, is the TSA PreCheck cost actually worth it?
Let’s break down everything to know about how much is TSA PreCheck, its benefits and why this could be one of the smartest travel investments you make this year.
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What is TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck is a government-run trusted traveler program that gets you access to those enviable expedited security lanes at hundreds of U.S. airports.
While regular travelers are removing shoes, taking out laptops, and emptying pockets, PreCheck members keep their shoes on, electronics packed, and move through security with minimal hassle. Here’s how TSA PreCheck works:
- TSA PreCheck applies for domestic flights within the U.S. AND when departing from U.S. airports for international destinations
- Upon approval for TSA PreCheck, you’ll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that you’ll have to add to all your flight reservations to fast-track the lines.
- The program grants access to typically shorter security lanes at over 200 participating U.S. airports.
TSA PreCheck can save you serious time getting to your gate. The numbers don’t lie: TSA PreCheck lanes typically process travelers in under 10 minutes compared to up to 30 minutes for standard lanes. In fact, in April 2024, 99% of PreCheck passengers waited less than 10 minutes at airport security.
How much is TSA PreCheck? TSA PreCheck cost explained
The standard TSA PreCheck price is $76.75 at Idemia enrollment centers (the most common provider) for a full 5-year membership. However, prices can vary slightly depending on where you apply: $77.95 at CLEAR enrollment locations or $85 at Telos enrollment centers.
When you break down the standard cost of TSA PreCheck, it’s approximately $15.35 per year or just $1.28 per month. That’s less than a single coffee shop visit each month.
The TSA PreCheck renewal cost is even more wallet-friendly. You’ll pay just $58.75 for online renewal or $66.75 in-person at Idemia, $68.95 at CLEAR locations, or $70 at Telos enrollment centers.
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How to get TSA PreCheck for free
Why pay for TSA PreCheck when you might be able to get it for free? Here are the smart ways to access those expedited security lanes without opening your wallet:
Credit card statement credits: Many premium travel credit cards offer statement credits to cover your TSA PreCheck application fee every 4 to 5 years.
Military benefits: All active members of the U.S. Armed Forces can receive TSA PreCheck benefits by entering their Department of Defense identification number as KTN.
Loyalty program redemptions: Some airline and hotel loyalty programs may let you redeem points or miles to cover the application fee.
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TSA PreCheck benefits: What you get for your money
The TSA PreCheck advantages often go beyond just skipping the line. Your investment delivers real, tangible benefits that make the entire airport experience significantly better:
Significantly shorter wait times: 99% of PreCheck passengers wait less than 10 minutes at security checkpoints, compared to standard lanes that can take 30+ minutes during peak travel.
Streamlined screening process: Keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on; leave electronics and 3-1-1 liquids in your carry-on.
Dedicated security lanes: Access to separate, typically less crowded screening areas specifically for PreCheck members.
Family-friendly benefit: Children age 12 and under can accompany you through the PreCheck lane without needing their own membership.
Wide availability: Access to expedited screening at 200+ airports nationwide when flying on 90+ participating airlines.
Valid for 5 full years: Your membership lasts for a significant period before you have to renew.
TSA PreCheck requirements: Do you qualify?
Not everyone is eligible for the TSA PreCheck process, but the requirements are straightforward for most U.S. travelers. Here’s what you need to qualify:
- U.S. citizenship or legal residency: You must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or lawful permanent resident (green card holder) to apply.
- Clean background: The TSA conducts a background check as part of the application process. Certain criminal offenses may disqualify you, particularly those related to transportation security or terrorism.
- Valid identification: You’ll need proper documentation for your appointment, including an unexpired government-issued photo ID and proof of citizenship or immigration status.
- In-person appointment: There’s no getting around the required in-person visit for the initial application, though renewals can often be completed online.
- Application fee: You’ll have to pay the application fee, which can range from $76.75 to $85 depending on the enrollment center.
How to get TSA PreCheck: Application process explained
Contrary to what you might expect from a government program, the TSA PreCheck application process is refreshingly simple. Here’s what it can look like.
- Complete an online TSA PreCheck application
- Schedule a quick in-person appointment at a nearby enrollment center
- Bring proper ID and citizenship/residency documentation
- Get fingerprinted
- Pay the required fee
- Receive your KTN within a few weeks
Once you have your KTN, simply add it to your airline profile or include it when booking flights. The PreCheck logo will appear on your boarding pass when you’re eligible, and just like that, you could be on your way to a better airport experience.
Is TSA PreCheck worth it?
For frequent flyers, the math is simple. If you take just four round-trip flights per year (that’s only two vacations), TSA PreCheck can save you approximately 4 hours annually in security lines. At $15.35 per year, you’re essentially “buying back” your time at less than $4 per hour, far less than what most people value their time.
But even for less frequent travelers, consider these factors:
- Stress reduction: Starting your journey without the hassle of removing shoes, unpacking electronics, and standing in long lines sets a more positive tone for your entire trip.
- Family benefits: If you travel with children under 12, they can join you in the PreCheck lane without their own membership, multiplying the value for family travelers.
- Five-year duration: Unlike many travel expenses that are one-and-done, your PreCheck membership provides benefits for a full five years before requiring renewal.
TSA PreCheck may not be worth it if you:
- Fly less than once a year
- Travel exclusively internationally (in which case, Global Entry might be a better option)
- Frequently depart from airports that don’t offer PreCheck lanes
For many domestic travelers, TSA PreCheck can offer great value, especially if you can get it for free or even a reduced cost through credit card benefits or loyalty programs.
FAQs
How much does TSA PreCheck cost?
TSA PreCheck costs between $76.75 to $85 for a new application depending on your enrollment center, with online renewals starting at just $58.75.
How long does TSA PreCheck last?
Your TSA PreCheck membership is valid for a full 5 years from the date of approval, after which you’ll need to renew to maintain your benefits.
How long does it take to get TSA PreCheck?
Most TSA PreCheck applications are approved within 3 to 5 business days after your in-person appointment, though processing can occasionally take up to 60 days during busy periods.
What disqualifies you from TSA PreCheck?
You can be disqualified from TSA PreCheck for certain criminal offenses, flight security violations (like bringing prohibited items through security), interfering with flight crew, making threats, or committing assault. Penalties can range from temporary suspension to permanent disqualification depending on the severity.