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How long does TSA PreCheck take to process?

How do I know when I'm approved for TSA PreCheck®? Most applicants receive their Known Traveler Number (KTN) in 3-5 days, though some applications can take up to 60 days.



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

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Longer wait times are due to a record number of applications for membership in the trusted traveler programs, according to the DHS. Google search traffic for TSA Precheck is around its highest level in five years.

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If you still do not have a TSA PreCheck indicator on your boarding pass, please call the TSA Contact Center at (866) 289-9673, submit an online form, or contact us at @AskTSA on Twitter and Facebook Messenger.

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To do so, click on Manage Trip for each reservation. Then, click on Add/Edit Passenger Information to add your PreCheck number.

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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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If you're eligible for TSA PreCheck, your boarding pass will show TSA PreCheck. If you add your KTN after checking in, you'll need to get a new boarding pass.

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About 1% of all applications received by Global Entry and TSA PreCheck applications are denied.

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Generally, an interview calls for you to wear professional attire. That said, a TSA PreCheck interview is pretty informal, so you can likely get away with dressing casually. Still, we recommend you leave the pajamas at home.

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TSA PreCheck denials can happen as a result of providing false or fraudulent information when applying, or for having a criminal record that has been deemed prohibited. If you were recently denied benefits of a TSA PreCheck enrollment, you should know that you have the right to an appeal.

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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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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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If you're a Global Entry, NEXUS or SENTRI member, you don't need to apply for TSA PreCheck since TSA PreCheck eligibility is already included with those programs.

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Security or immigration violations Immigration violations are taken seriously, too. Individuals can have memberships denied or revoked when found: In violation of customs, immigration or agriculture regulations or laws in any country. Inadmissible to the United States under an immigration regulation.

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Felony and misdemeanor criminal searches at the county, state, and federal level. Checks of Federal Aviation Administration records to verify pilot licenses, medical certificates, and more. Air carrier record reviews to ensure personnel have gone through proper training processes.

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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.

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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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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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Once you are a Clear member, you can log in to your account on Clear's website and add up to three family members for $60 each per year. Children under 18 can use the lane for free when accompanied by a Clear member.

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Yes. Members will keep the same KTN during the renewal process.

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No. The system checks your KTN against the name, gender, and birthdate on the ticket. The system will let you add any number you want, but the boarding pass will never actually show the symbol if the number doesn't match the ticketholder.

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