TSA precheck cost

TSA PreCheck is a trusted traveler program designed to expedite the airport security screening process for low-risk passengers. For frequent travelers, the benefits of TSA PreCheck can be invaluable—allowing you to skip long security lines, keep your shoes and belts on, and leave laptops and liquids in your bag. However, before you apply, it’s essential to understand the costs involved, including the application fee, renewal fees, and other related expenses. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the TSA PreCheck cost and whether the investment is worth it for your travel needs.

1. TSA PreCheck Application Fee

The first cost you’ll encounter when applying for TSA PreCheck is the application fee. As of 2024, the application fee is $78. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid regardless of whether your application is approved or denied. The fee covers the cost of a background check, fingerprinting, and the overall application process. Once approved, your TSA PreCheck status is valid for five years, making the cost about $15.60 per year—a small price to pay for frequent travelers who value convenience and time savings.

2. TSA PreCheck Renewal Fee

After the initial five-year period, you’ll need to renew your TSA PreCheck membership to continue enjoying the benefits. The renewal fee is slightly less than the initial application fee, currently set at $70 if you renew online. If you renew in person, the fee remains $78. Renewing online is not only cheaper but also more convenient, as it eliminates the need for a new in-person appointment. Like the initial application, the renewal also grants you another five years of TSA PreCheck benefits.

3. Other Potential Costs

While the application and renewal fees are the primary costs associated with TSA PreCheck, there are a few other potential expenses to consider:

• Name Changes: If you legally change your name during your TSA PreCheck membership, you’ll need to update your information with the TSA. This process usually involves visiting an enrollment center and could require a small fee, depending on the circumstances.
• Lost or Damaged Known Traveler Number (KTN) Card: If you lose your KTN card, there may be a fee for a replacement. While this card isn’t necessary for using TSA PreCheck—your KTN is tied to your airline reservations—some travelers prefer to have a physical card as a backup.
• International Travel Programs: If you frequently travel internationally, you might consider enrolling in Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck. The cost for Global Entry is $100 for five years, just $22 more than TSA PreCheck alone. While slightly more expensive, Global Entry offers expedited customs processing when returning to the United States, making it a valuable option for international travelers.

4. Are There Any Discounts Available?

Yes, some credit cards and loyalty programs offer reimbursements for TSA PreCheck fees. Many premium travel credit cards, such as those offered by American Express, Chase, and Capital One, provide a statement credit for the TSA PreCheck application fee every four to five years. Additionally, certain frequent flyer programs and airlines offer discounts or reimbursements as part of their loyalty benefits. Before applying, it’s worth checking if your credit card or loyalty program provides this perk, as it can effectively reduce your TSA PreCheck cost to zero.

5. Is TSA PreCheck Worth the Cost?

Whether TSA PreCheck is worth the cost depends on your travel habits and how much you value convenience. Here are a few factors to consider:

• Frequency of Travel: If you fly several times a year, the time savings alone can justify the cost of TSA PreCheck. The ability to skip long security lines and breeze through screening can make your travel experience significantly more pleasant.
• Airport and Airline Participation: TSA PreCheck is available at over 200 airports and with dozens of airlines across the United States. If you frequently travel through participating airports and airlines, you’ll be able to maximize the benefits of your TSA PreCheck membership.
• Traveling with Family: TSA PreCheck benefits extend to children under 12 traveling with an eligible adult. This can make family travel much smoother, especially when managing young children through security checkpoints.
• Security and Peace of Mind: Beyond the convenience, TSA PreCheck members enjoy a less invasive screening process. You won’t need to remove shoes, belts, or light jackets, and you can leave laptops and liquids in your bag. This not only speeds up the process but also reduces the stress associated with airport security.

6. Comparing TSA PreCheck to Other Trusted Traveler Programs

If you’re considering TSA PreCheck, it’s also worth looking at other trusted traveler programs, such as Global Entry, CLEAR, and NEXUS, to see which one best suits your needs.

• Global Entry: As mentioned earlier, Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck and adds expedited customs processing for international travelers. The cost is $100 for five years, making it an excellent value if you frequently travel abroad.
• CLEAR: CLEAR is a separate program that allows you to bypass the traditional ID check at security. While CLEAR doesn’t include TSA PreCheck, it can be used in conjunction with it for even faster processing. CLEAR is more expensive, with an annual fee of $189, but it’s ideal for those who value speed above all else.
• NEXUS: If you frequently travel between the U.S. and Canada, NEXUS might be a better option. At just $50 for five years, NEXUS includes both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck benefits, but it requires an in-person interview at a NEXUS enrollment center, which may not be as convenient depending on your location.

7. How to Apply for TSA PreCheck

If you decide that TSA PreCheck is worth the investment, the application process is straightforward:

1. Online Application: Start by filling out the online application on the TSA’s official website. You’ll need to provide basic information, including your name, address, and employment history.
2. Appointment Scheduling: After submitting your application, you’ll schedule an in-person appointment at one of over 500 enrollment centers nationwide. During this appointment, you’ll undergo a background check and fingerprinting.
3. Approval: Most applicants receive approval within a few days to a few weeks. Once approved, you’ll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN), which you can add to your airline reservations to access TSA PreCheck lanes.
4. Using TSA PreCheck: When booking flights, be sure to include your KTN in your reservation. Your TSA PreCheck status will be indicated on your boarding pass, allowing you to use the dedicated PreCheck lanes at participating airports.

8. Conclusion

The cost of TSA PreCheck is relatively low, especially when considering the convenience and time savings it offers. For frequent travelers, the $78 application fee, which breaks down to just over $15 per year, is a small investment for a smoother, more efficient airport experience. With potential discounts and reimbursements available through credit cards and loyalty programs, TSA PreCheck can be even more affordable. Whether traveling for business, with family, or for leisure, TSA PreCheck helps reduce the stress and hassle of airport security, making it a valuable tool for enhancing your travel experience.