How do I skip the TSA line?

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.



While you can't literally "skip" security, you can drastically speed up the process in 2026 through several "fast-track" programs. TSA PreCheck is the most common, allowing you to use a dedicated lane where you keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on, and your laptop stays in your bag. CLEAR Plus goes a step further by using biometrics (eyes or face) to verify your identity, allowing you to skip the ID check line and head straight to the physical screening. In 2026, the most advanced option is TSA PreCheck Touchless ID, available at over 65 airports for travelers with a valid passport; this uses facial recognition to eliminate the need for any physical documents at the checkpoint. Additionally, many airports now offer "Digital Queuing" services like Reserve by CLEAR or "SEA Spot Saver," where you can book a specific time slot for security for free. Combining CLEAR Plus with TSA PreCheck remains the "gold standard" for getting from the curb to the gate in minutes.

People Also Ask

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.

MORE DETAILS

Travel with. ease with TSA PreCheck® remove shoes, belts, 3-1-1 liquids, laptops, or light jackets. Available to US citizens, nationals and LPRs.

MORE DETAILS

The nonrefundable enrollment fee for TSA PreCheck® is $78 or $85, depending on whether you apply through Telos or Idemia. Once approved, the membership lasts for five years. You can renew the membership online for $70 or in person for $70 or $78, depending on the provider.

MORE DETAILS

When you enroll in TSA Pre?® (valid for 5 years), you'll speed through expedited security lines without the need to remove your shoes, laptop, liquids, belt, or lightweight jacket.

MORE DETAILS

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

MORE DETAILS

If you commit certain violations of federal security regulations, such as assault, threat, intimidation, or interference with flight crew, physical or sexual assault or threat of physical or sexual assault of any individual on an aircraft, interference with security operations, access control violations, providing ...

MORE DETAILS

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. Considering this, applicants are encouraged to renew at least 60 days prior to expiry. TSA will notify members with eligibility results.

MORE DETAILS

Google search traffic for “TSA Precheck” is around its highest level in five years. Most TSA PreCheck applicants must complete an online application, and get approved within three to five days of their in-person enrollment appointment, on average. However, it can take 60 days or longer, the TSA said.

MORE DETAILS

At participating airports, TSA PreCheck will have a dedicated security line that is typically faster and simpler than standard lines. In these lines, travelers can expect to keep their shoes, belts, and light jackets on, and will not have to remove their laptops or liquids from their carry-ons.

MORE DETAILS

Is Clear better than PreCheck? Since TSA PreCheck is available at more airports and provides expedited security wait times, as well as an easier screening process, TSA PreCheck is better than Clear if you want to only get one.

MORE DETAILS

Cadets and midshipmen of the U.S. Military Academy, Naval Academy, Coast Guard Academy, Air Force Academy and Merchant Marine Academy. Passengers 12 and younger traveling with an eligible passenger. Passengers who are selected using existing Secure Flight system requirements while traveling on participating airlines.

MORE DETAILS

TSA PreCheck® provides expedited security screening benefits for flights departing from U.S. Airports. Global Entry provides expedited U.S. customs screening for international air travelers when entering the United States. Global Entry members also receive TSA PreCheck® benefits as part of their membership.

MORE DETAILS

Is TSA PreCheck Free for Seniors? TSA PreCheck is not free for seniors and there are no senior discounts applicable to the $78 application fee.

MORE DETAILS

You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. This is also known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

MORE DETAILS

Not only does Staples offer same-day passport photo services, they also offer TSA Pre-Check enrollment.

MORE DETAILS