"TSA Priority" is a term often used to describe expedited security access, but in 2026, it is important to distinguish between TSA PreCheck and Priority Lane access. TSA PreCheck is a government-run "trusted traveler" program that allows you to keep your shoes, belts, and light jackets on while leaving your 3-1-1 liquids and laptops in your bag. "Priority check-in" or "Priority Security," on the other hand, is usually an airline-offered perk for First/Business class passengers or high-level frequent flyers. This allows you to jump to the front of the standard security line, but you still have to follow standard screening rules (taking off shoes, etc.) unless you also have PreCheck. In 2026, many airports have merged these into "Biometric Priority" lanes, where a simple face scan replaces your boarding pass and ID, significantly speeding up the process for enrolled passengers.
The Transportation Security Administration is an agency of the United States Department of Homeland Security that has authority over the security of transportation systems within, and connecting to the United States.