Standing in line to clear security at any airport can take forever. But not if you have TSA PreCheck. If you are planning a fabulous vacation this year, or you know you will be traveling quite a bit over the next few years, signing up for TSA PreCheck will be one of the best things you can do. There are numerous TSA PreCheck benefits you will enjoy after filling out an easy application. Today, I am going to share those benefits with you, as well as a few other facts you may not be aware of.  

TSA PreCheck 

Why Sign Up for TSA PreCheck?  

TSA PreCheck is a membership program that allows you to use dedicated security lines, as well as a streamlined screening process at US airports. All you need to do is add your Known Traveler Number to your flight reservations to obtain the TSA PreCheck designation on your boarding pass.  

The main reason to sign up for TSA PreCheck is to avoid the long security lines (as shown in the picture below) at US airports. However, you will enjoy all the other benefits you receive from this program.  

Oh, and any of your children who are seventeen or younger can join you in the TSA PreCheck line. They will not need their own membership until they turn eighteen.  

How to Apply for TSA PreCheck? 

Visiting an enrollment center is necessary for applying for TSA PreCheck the first time. During your appointment, you will need to fill out the application and provide valid identification and citizenship documentation. A photograph is needed, as are fingerprints.  

You can pre-enroll online if you want the in-person process to go a little faster.  

It can take up to sixty days to receive approval. You can check the status of your application online.  

How Long is TSA PreCheck Valid?  

TSA PreCheck is valid for five years. It is best to renew your TSA PreCheck six months prior to its expiration. This will ensure you won’t need to start the process over from the very beginning.  

Most of the time, TSA PreCheck can be renewed online. However, some people may need to renew at an enrollment center. Those people will receive a notification as they are filling out the membership renewal form online.  

How Much is TSA PreCheck?  

The cost of TSA PreCheck is $78. You must pay for the enrollment fee with a credit card. Money orders, certified checks, and company checks will be accepted if they are made out to IDEMIA for the exact amount.  

Personal checks and cash are not accepted forms of payment for TSA PreCheck.  

If you are renewing your TSA PreCheck, it will be $70 online. If you are one of the few who needs to finalize the renewal application in person, the cost will be $78.  

Prior to paying your application fee, check out the benefits of any credit cards you use. Some of them offer TSA PreCheck for free.  

Best TSA PreCheck Benefits 

Designated Security Lanes 

You won’t need to stand in the long security lines at US airports once you have received your Known Traveler Number.  

Shoes and Belt Requirements 

Instead of removing your shoes and belt when you reach the security line, you can leave them on once you have TSA PreCheck approval. This will save you time and the struggle of juggling everything, as you try to move quickly through the line.  

Liquids and Laptop Requirements 

Okay, so you will still need to follow the three-ounce rule with liquids when you are flying. However, those liquids, and your laptop, can stay right in your carry-on bag. This is another timesaver benefit many people find helpful while trying to reach their gate in time.  

It is important to note that TSA PreCheck is not the same as Global Entry. The latter is for international travel and includes TSA PreCheck. Global Entry is $100 but can be worth the extra cost due to the expedited US customs screenings you receive.  

Now that you know about the TSA PreCheck benefits and how easy it is to apply, it may be time to sign up. Especially if you know you will be heading out on vacation soon. You will definitely want to experience the perks of this program before you fly the next time.  

So, are you ready to sign up for TSA PreCheck and have me plan your next vacation?  

You will need to sign up for TSA PreCheck on your own, but you can click here to schedule a planning session with me for your next vacation. When you click the link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.  

Not ready to plan a vacation yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue receiving all the travel information I share.