TSA PreCheck: Benefits and qualification guide

If you travel frequently for work, you know the frustration of long airport security lines. Steps like removing your shoes, unpacking electronics, and being selected for extra screening are time-consuming and sometimes stressful, especially if you’re worried about missing a connection.

TSA PreCheck is a great way to improve your business travel experience. It’s a program designed for frequent fliers and business travelers, letting you move through airport security faster and with fewer steps. 

There are lots of benefits to TSA PreCheck, but you’ll need to do your homework before signing up. This guide will walk you through the cost and requirements, plus the ways this program differs from Global Entry. We’ll also share tips for speeding up the TSA PreCheck process so you can start enjoying this travel shortcut sooner. 

What’s TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck is part of the Trusted Traveler Program run by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). It offers a faster, smoother airport security screening experience for low-risk passengers—especially helpful for frequent fliers and anyone traveling long distances.

With TSA PreCheck, you can: 

• Skip long security lines at over 200 U.S. airports
• Keep your shoes, belt, and jacket on
• Leave your laptop and liquids in your bag

PreCheck is available when flying with most major U.S. airlines, including Delta, United, American, Southwest, and JetBlue. According to the TSA, 99% of PreCheck passengers wait less than 10 minutes in line.

Benefits of TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck is designed to streamline travel, making it easier to stay on schedule without getting stressed. Here’s a look at the biggest benefits.

Reduced wait times

TSA PreCheck passengers often breeze through security screening in just a few minutes. You’ll appreciate getting to your gate faster when you’re catching a 6 a.m. flight the morning after a late client dinner.

Less hassle

TSA PreCheck doesn’t require you to remove clothing, take out your electronics, or walk around in your socks. Every convenience counts when you’re juggling a carry-on, backpack, or purse—and as an added bonus, you’ll be a lot less likely to leave something valuable behind.

Keeps you productive

Faster lines means more time to answer emails, grab a coffee, or just take a few minutes to breathe before boarding. PreCheck helps keep your travel day on track so you can stay focused on business, not irritating airport logistics.

Cost-effective for frequent flyers

TSA PreCheck offers excellent value, especially for business travelers who fly often. The time and stress it saves at the airport will quickly outweigh the modest enrollment fee. And since many travel credit cards and airline loyalty programs will reimburse the cost, PreCheck is a no-brainer for frequent fliers.

TSA PreCheck cost and application requirements

TSA PreCheck is a small investment with big returns. Here’s how the pricing breaks down in 2025:

• Initial application fee: $78
• Renewal fee (online): $70
• Membership length: Valid for five years

If you have a travel credit card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve or Amex Platinum, you’re likely eligible for full reimbursement for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fees.

There’s no minimum age to apply for PreCheck—if your kids are 12 or younger, they can join you in the expedited security lane once you’ve joined the program (ages 13+ need to get approved). 

Here are the main TSA PreCheck requirements. You must be:

• A U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
• Able to pass a background check and fingerprinting

TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry: Key differences

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are both part of the Trusted Traveler Program, but they serve different travel needs.

What they cover

TSA PreCheck speeds up airport security screening for domestic flights. Global Entry is geared toward international travelers—it includes all the benefits of TSA PreCheck while expediting U.S. customs processing when you return from abroad.

Application process

Both programs require:

• An online application
• An in-person interview
• Fingerprinting
• A background check

Global Entry interviews are only available at specific enrollment centers. Appointments can be harder to get, so approval may take longer.

Which is right for you? 

If you travel internationally at least once a year, Global Entry might be a better choice. It costs just a bit more ($100 for five years), but it gives you all the perks of PreCheck plus faster reentry to the U.S.

How to apply for TSA PreCheck: 5 steps

Getting started with TSA PreCheck is easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide.

1. Fill out the online application

Visit the official TSA website and complete the TSA PreCheck application. It takes about five minutes to enter your basic information.

2. Schedule an appointment

Book an available time at a nearby enrollment center. Many centers are located inside major airports or office buildings—there’s likely one close to your office or home.

3. Complete the interview and fingerprinting

Your appointment shouldn’t take more than 15 minutes. Remember to bring a valid photo ID and proof of citizenship or immigration status. You’ll be fingerprinted and asked a few standard questions.

4. Get approved and receive your KTN

Most applicants receive their Known Traveler Number (KTN) within three to five days, but it can take up to 60.

5. Add your KTN to airline profiles and reservations

Once you get your KTN, log into your airline accounts and add it to all your traveler profiles. You should also enter it when booking flights (some airlines do this automatically once the KTN is in your profile). Once added, the number will appear on your boarding pass, giving you access to the TSA PreCheck lane.

Have a safe business trip with Engine

TSA PreCheck is a smart move for business travelers who value time, comfort, and peace of mind. With faster lines and fewer hassles, it helps you stay productive and focused while on the go.

Ready to skip the stress and fly smarter? Start your TSA PreCheck application today. And when it’s time to book your next work trip, use Engine to manage details like hotels, flights, and car rentals all in one place.

FAQ

Can children use TSA PreCheck with their parents?

Yes, children 12 and under can accompany a parent or guardian with TSA PreCheck through the dedicated security lane without needing their own membership. Travelers 13 and older must enroll individually. For safety reasons, teens aged 13 to 17 may not always receive PreCheck access on their boarding passes, even if enrolled, which would require them to go through standard security screening. 

Does TSA PreCheck work at every airport and with all airlines?

TSA PreCheck is available at 200+ U.S. airports and supported by over 90 airlines, but not every airport terminal or airline gate has a dedicated PreCheck lane. The lane may also be unavailable at certain times of the day or because of higher passenger volume. Always check your airport's PreCheck availability and ensure your airline participates before making your plans.

What happens if my Known Traveler Number (KTN) isn’t on my boarding pass?

If your KTN isn’t added to your airline reservation, you won’t be eligible for TSA PreCheck screening—even if you're enrolled. Double-check that your KTN is saved in your frequent flyer profile and included when booking each trip. If you add your KTN after checking in, you’ll need to have your boarding pass reissued.

Is TSA PreCheck available for international flights?

Yes, but only for the departure portion of international flights leaving from U.S. airports. TSA PreCheck speeds up security before boarding, but it doesn’t apply to customs or reentry into the United States. If you’re interested in faster international reentry, consider signing up for Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck and expedited customs screening.