How do I get priority airport security?

Enroll in TSA PreCheck or Clear
TSA PreCheck is a trusted traveler program that allows those who are enrolled to go through an airport security line that is usually shorter and faster than the regular line.



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How to Get Through Airport Security Quickly, According to a TSA Insider
  1. Enroll in TSA PreCheck or Clear. ...
  2. Wear shoes you can easily slip off. ...
  3. Make sure none of your clothes contain metal. ...
  4. Pack your carry-on (relatively) neatly. ...
  5. Make sure you're following TSA's 3-1-1 liquid rule. ...
  6. Empty your water bottle.


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The application fee for TSA PreCheck® is $78 for 5 years. Before you apply, we recommend that you review the various DHS trusted traveler programs, such as the TSA PreCheck® Application Program, Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI, to ensure you meet the eligibility requirements and determine the best program for you.

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Who can apply for TSA PreCheck®? The TSA PreCheck® Application Program is only open to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals and lawful permanent residents.

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Do seniors automatically get PreCheck? No. Anyone who wants to receive PreCheck needs to apply. However, TSA does provide people who are 75 years old or older access to an expedited screening process in the regular screening lines: You can keep your light jacket and shoes on.

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TSA estimates that 95% of TSA PreCheck passengers wait less than five minutes in the security line. This is a small amount of time separating you from the back of the security line to the terminal, meaning the most useful benefit is, of course, saving time.

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TSA PreCheck allows walk-ins for interviews, but applicants with appointments are prioritized. Appointments are scheduled to last about 10 minutes (but if the enrollment center is busy, it may take a bit longer).

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Making a reservation in advance is a great way to skip TSA's sometimes exorbitantly long lines. However, if you're flying out of an airport that doesn't have this program, you may instead want to consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck or Clear.

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Skip the longer lines with TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry
To qualify, you'll need to submit an online application and schedule an in-person appointment that includes a background check and fingerprinting. TSA PreCheck® costs $85 for a five-year membership.

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If you want to skip the security line without paying These programs are free, if somewhat limited, and can save you a lot of time at the airport. If you're otherwise looking to skip the TSA line, you may consider enrolling in either TSA PreCheck or Clear.

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With Sky Priority, you'll enjoy faster check-in and accelerated security, early boarding, and expedited baggage service. Don't let airport check-in slow you down. Enjoy dedicated check-in areas at the airport to help you move through quickly and get to your gate even faster.

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Priority Lane will provide Priority Pass Members with access to the “fast lane” at airport security and passport control checkpoints at an additional fee, meaning you have the chance to reduce your wait time, and spend more time in the airport terminal exploring all the benefits you're entitled to as a Priority Pass ...

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Cons: Because of the program's popularity, TSA PreCheck lanes can sometimes be longer than the normal security ones. However, an extra few minutes of waiting here and there might be worth it to avoid having to strip down and assume the position in a scanner every time you fly.

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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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TSA PreCheck vs. Clear. Overall, Clear's biometric identity verification process will get you to the front of the security line faster than TSA PreCheck.

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10-min in-person appointment that includes fingerprinting for a background check.

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How long does it take to get approved? Most applicants receive approval notification in 3-5 days, though some applications can take up to 60 days.

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Failure to meet eligibility requirements
U.S. citizens and U.S. lawful permanent residents are eligible for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry. If the identifying information on your application is incorrect or incomplete, then it may be denied.

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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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Bonus: If you're 75 or older, TSA usually allows you to go through the security pre-check line, which means you don't have to remove your shoes or separate laptops or liquids from your carry-on.

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Eligible TSA PreCheck® travelers include: U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents enrolled in TSA PreCheck®. Members of Global Entry. U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents who are members of SENTRI.

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