The short answer is yes, it is worth getting TSA PreCheck, especially if you can get the cost covered as part of a credit card or loyalty program benefit. Who doesn't love saving time at the airport?
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“If you fly two to three times per year, whether it be international or domestic, then the ability to skip super long security lines with TSA PreCheck is certainly worth the cost,” says John Taylor Garner, CEO of Odynn, a credit card awards optimization platform.
While the availability of use once you receive your Known Traveler Number, especially for the price you pay, makes TSA PreCheck a great option, the availability to enroll once getting your conditional letter is a true con of this program.
TSA PreCheck can make the airport security screening process smoother and faster. That's mainly because members can access lines that tend to be shorter and do not have to remove shoes, belts, 3-1-1 liquids, laptops or light jackets.
Notably, Global Entry membership automatically includes TSA PreCheck membership. This means that travelers with Global Entry can enjoy a faster screening process whether they're traveling domestically or returning to the United States after a trip abroad.
The short answer is yes, it is worth getting TSA PreCheck, especially if you can get the cost covered as part of a credit card or loyalty program benefit. Who doesn't love saving time at the airport?
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.
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.
TSA PreCheck verifies which passengers are present the lowest risk to flight security, so these passengers can pass through security checkpoints without the need to remove shoes, belts, or jackets from their person or laptops and liquids from their bags.
TSA PreCheck gets you into expedited security lines with fewer hoops to jump through when you get there. However, it will not help you speed through customs and immigration when returning to the U.S., as Global Entry does. Although Global Entry includes membership to TSA PreCheck, it does not work the other way around.
TSA PreCheck™ lets you leave your shoes, belt, and light jacket on while you go through security. You can also leave your laptop and your liquids in your bag.
Although it has many travel benefits, the Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card does not reimburse the TSA PreCheck application fee. The Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card offers a statement credit up to $100 every four years as reimbursement for a TSA PreCheck application fee.
Will I receive an ID card or other credential to use TSA PreCheck® lanes? No, there is no TSA PreCheck card. Travelers should enter their Known Traveler Number in their airline reservation to receive a TSA PreCheck® indicator on their boarding pass.
You can also update existing reservations with your TSA PreCheck number. Go to Edit Traveler Information in the Manage Reservations section on the website, at an airport kiosk or in the United app.
How do I know when I'm approved for TSA PreCheck®? Most applicants receive their KTN (Known Traveler Number) in 3-5 days, though some applications can take up to 60 days. Applicants can receive updates on their enrollment application status by email, phone, text or by checking online.
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.
Visit the government's Trusted Traveler Program web page and you'll find Global Entry processing times estimated at 4 to 6 months, though as recently as a couple of weeks ago, CBP cautioned that for some applicants waits for an in-person interview could run anywhere from 6 to 18 months.
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.