TSA PreCheck is a membership program that offers dedicated airport security lines and streamlined screening at a few hundred airports across the U.S. Upon approval, members receive a Known Traveler Number that lets the airlines know that you are eligible for TSA PreCheck benefits.

While "TSA" itself is an agency, membership in its TSA PreCheck® program offers substantial benefits for travelers in 2026. The primary advantage is expedited screening, which allows members to use dedicated security lanes where the average wait time is typically less than 10 minutes. Within these lanes, you do not need to remove your shoes, light jackets, or belts, and you can keep your 3-1-1 liquids and laptops inside your carry-on bag. This significantly reduces the stress of the "security gauntlet" and minimizes physical contact at the checkpoint. For 2026, the program has expanded to include over 90 airlines and 200 airports. The membership costs roughly $78 for five years (with even cheaper online renewals), making it one of the most cost-effective travel investments. Furthermore, many premium credit cards now offer a statement credit to cover the application fee. For international travelers, the benefits are even greater if you bundle it with Global Entry, which provides expedited customs processing when returning to the United States from abroad.