Did TSA PreCheck just get cheaper?

The Transportation Security Administration is reducing the cost to apply to its TSA PreCheck program, making the popular service easier to access. The enrollment and in-person renewal fee will now cost $78, lower than its original cost of $85, according to the TSA. The cost to renew online will remain the same at $70.



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The application fee for TSA PreCheck® is $78 for 5 years.

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TSA PreCheck: $78 It costs $78 to apply, and the membership lasts for five years. Some credit cards and elite frequent flyer programs reimburse your application fee.

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In March 2021, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) issued a scam alert describing misleading websites that claimed to offer victims TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or NEXUS application services but instead charged the consumer $140.

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A TSA PreCheck™ agent will conduct enrollments at select AAA branches. Enrolling in TSA PreCheck™ creates a smarter travel experience with fewer hassles and less stress. The enrollment is $78 dollars and good for 5 years.

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How Do I Get TSA Precheck for Free?
  1. Aeroplan® Credit Card.
  2. The Platinum Card® from American Express (Terms apply, see rates & fees)
  3. The Business Platinum Card® from American Express (Terms apply, see rates & fees)
  4. Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card.
  5. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card.


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Note: Travelers are checked for TSA PreCheck every time they fly, but the PreCheck indicator isn't limited to participating airports. This means you may still get a boarding pass printed with TSA PreCheck, even if you're at an airport that isn't outfitted with a PreCheck lane.

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With a $78 one-time fee, you pay about $15.50 per year over five years. What do you get for your money? Shorter wait times. In May 2023, 89% of TSA PreCheck passengers waited less than five minutes in security lines, according to the TSA.

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Once you complete enrollment and are deemed eligible for the program, wait three to five days for a Known Traveler Number. However, keep in mind that it can take up to 60 days to be approved in some cases. After approval, return to the TSA PreCheck website and click the Check My Service Status link to find your KTN.

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Global Entry can definitely be worth it as it saves you a lot of time and hassle when returning from an international trip. The cost is just $22 more than TSA PreCheck and it includes all PreCheck benefits as well. Plus, there are many travel credit cards that offer Global Entry application fee credits.

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If you are an international traveler, you'll likely benefit more from Global Entry. However, if you only travel domestically, TSA Precheck is a fantastic option. TSA PreCheck comes with: “Fastpass” through airport security - expedited security screening for low-risk travelers departing from U.S. airports.

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Technically your spouse can't go through the TSA PreCheck lane without their own account. In some instances, however, security may allow them through when it's clear that their boarding passes match yours as the primary account holder.

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The fastest and easiest way to enroll in TSA PreCheck® is to start the application online.

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However, the answer is yes to the question Can I add TSA PreCheck to an existing reservation? You must update existing flights and your airline loyalty program profiles to be able to use the dedicated airport security lanes for PreCheck members.

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Global Entry
Members pay $100 for five years, but that includes enrollment in TSA PreCheck, which alone will cost you $85.

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Because not all airlines participate in the program, if you book on a non-TSA PreCheck carrier (not all international airlines are TSA PreCheck partners) you will still have to go through the regular security line—which is why some frequent travelers also opt to purchase a Clear membership.

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Security scans might be more comfortable
With TSA PreCheck, you can leave on shoes, belts and light jackets. There's also no fumbling with large electronic devices—they can stay in your carry-on if you have TSA PreCheck. The result is usually a comfortable, seamless experience that doesn't sacrifice security.

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