How do you get selected for TSA PreCheck?

How it Works
  1. Apply Online. Submit an online application in 5 minutes & schedule an appointment at any of 500+ enrollment centers.
  2. Enroll in person. 10-min in-person appointment that includes fingerprinting for a background check.
  3. Travel with Ease.




People Also Ask

The TSA PreCheck® Application Program is only open to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals and lawful permanent residents. Applicants may be ineligible due to incomplete or false application information, certain violations of federal security regulations, or disqualifying criminal offenses and factors.

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Yes, you can get PreCheck without having signed up for the program. There's probably an element of chance, but I'm sure it's not entirely random — the TSA likely has some criteria that determine the type of traveler to select. The time or two I got PreCheck, I was traveling with my family.

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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.

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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. Considering this, applicants are encouraged to renew at least 60 days prior to expiry.

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To apply, applicants simply complete a TSA Precheck application online at tsa.gov or at an enrollment center. All candidates must schedule a visit to an enrollment center for a short interview and show proof of identity, citizenship and submit their fingerprints.

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Reasons TSA PreCheck can be denied
It is possible to lose TSA PreCheck by committing federal security violations or crimes. These include both on an airplane or even when not flying. On the plane, these can include: Assault.

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Status may be denied or revoked if you have: Provided false information during the application process. Been convicted of any criminal offense or have pending criminal charges. Violated customs policies.

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Reasons TSA PreCheck can be denied
It is possible to lose TSA PreCheck by committing federal security violations or crimes. These include both on an airplane or even when not flying. On the plane, these can include: Assault.

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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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They might or might not ask you some questions mentioned in the application, such as whether you've used other names before, how often you travel and why you want to enroll in the program. If you have a criminal history, it's possible you'll be asked to provide details.

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Yes. TSA PreCheck® is available when you depart from a U.S. airport to a foreign country, and for domestic, connecting flights after you return to the United States. If you travel internationally four or more times a year, consider enrolling in Global Entry instead of TSA PreCheck®.

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TSA uses millimeter wave advanced imaging technology and walk-through metal detectors to screen passengers. Millimeter wave advanced imaging technology safely screens passengers without physical contact for metallic and non-metallic threats, including weapons and explosives, which may be concealed under clothing.

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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.

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Almost anyone can qualify for TSA PreCheck.
Disqualifications may include customs violations, having been convicted of a crime, or being under investigation for a crime.

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Along with felonies, some criminal offenses, including extortion, bribery, and firearms related incidents, can disqualify you from being approved for TSA PreCheck if they occurred in the last seven years.

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Why would I fail a TSA background check? Extortion. Dishonesty, fraud, or misrepresentation, including identity fraud and money laundering, where the money laundering is related to a crime listed in Parts A or B (except welfare fraud and passing bad checks). Bribery.

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Most budget airlines like Frontier, Allegiant, Spirit, and Sun Country all participate in TSA PreCheck. Notable airlines that don't participate in TSA PreCheck include Aer Lingus, China Southern, China Eastern, EgyptAir, and worst of all, Iberia.

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Tripping the system during a background check
Other times, you could engage in some type of suspicious travel activity that triggers an additional screening which could include things like: Visits to high-risk countries. Unusual travel patterns (last minute one-way flight) Paying cash for tickets.

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Scored Based Interview Questions
It is important to note that failing to get a minimum of a three on even one segment will result in failure even if the overall score is 18 or above. Those who do fail are only eligible to retake the exam after a 6th month waiting period.

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