How much does TSA PreCheck® cost?
TSA PreCheck® allows travelers to use an expedited screening line to get through airport security checkpoints more quickly.
It costs up to $85 for a five-year membership. But the price can vary based on how you apply and whether you’re paying for a new membership or a renewal.
What you’ll learn:
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TSA PreCheck® gives travelers access to expedited security lines at the airport.
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The TSA PreCheck® fee for new applications is typically $76.75 to $85.
- Eligible Capital One Venture, Venture X, Venture X Business and Spark 2X Miles cardholders can receive a statement credit to cover the application fee.
What is TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck® is a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) designed to help travelers spend less time in airport security. Members can use separate security lines for flights at more than 200 airports nationwide.
They also receive Known Traveler Numbers (KTN) to add to flight reservations.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) no longer requires passengers to remove their shoes in most circumstances. TSA PreCheck® members can also typically keep on a belt and light jacket. And they don’t have to remove laptops or approved small liquids from luggage.
Memberships last for five years.
How much is TSA PreCheck®?
The cost of TSA PreCheck® depends on how you apply and whether you’re enrolling for the first time or renewing. TSA partners with three companies (CLEAR®, IDEMIA and Telos) to handle enrollments. Each offers slightly different pricing.
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For new applications: A TSA PreCheck® membership costs $76.75 with IDEMIA, $79.95 with CLEAR and $85 with Telos.
- For renewals: IDEMIA charges $58.75 for online renewal or $66.75 in person. CLEAR charges $69.95 for online renewal or $79.95 in person. Telos charges $70 for online and in-person renewals.
Is TSA PreCheck worth it?
According to TSA, 99% of TSA PreCheck® members wait less than 10 minutes in airport security. If you want to move through the airport more smoothly, TSA PreCheck® could be worth the cost.
TSA PreCheck® vs. other Trusted Traveler Programs
TSA PreCheck® is one of several TTPs. Others include Global Entry, CLEAR+, NEXUS and SENTRI. TSA recommends comparing benefits and costs to find one that’s right for you.
| New application cost | Renewal cost | Primary benefit | Includes TSA PreCheck® | ||
|
TSA PreCheck® |
$76.75 to $85 for 5 years | $58.75 to $79.95 for 5 years | Expedited security lines for flights departing U.S. airports | N/A | |
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Global Entry |
$120 for 5 years | $120 for 5 years | Expedited customs process for travelers returning to the U.S. | Yes | |
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CLEAR+ |
$209 per year | $209 per year | Expedited security lines in designated CLEAR+ lanes for flights departing U.S. airports | Yes, when CLEAR+ is bundled with TSA PreCheck® | |
|
NEXUS |
$120 for 5 years | $120 for 5 years | Expedited border crossings into the U.S. and Canada for pre-approved travelers | May be included | |
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SENTRI |
$120 for 5 years | $120 for 5 years | Streamlined international arrival process from Mexico into the U.S. | May be included |
How to get TSA PreCheck®
You can apply for TSA PreCheck® online and schedule an in-person appointment at an enrollment center. The appointment will require the fee payment, proof of identity and fingerprinting.
If your TSA PreCheck® application is approved, you’ll receive your KTN within 60 days. But the TSA says most people receive their KTN in three to five days.
How to get TSA PreCheck® for free
Here are people who may be able to access TSA PreCheck® for free:
Military and government personnel
TSA PreCheck® is free for active-duty military members as well as cadets and midshipmen of the U.S. military academies. Some U.S. government employees are also eligible. Learn more about who qualifies.
Commercial driver’s license holders with HAZMAT endorsement
People with a commercial driver’s license with a qualifying HAZMAT endorsement may be eligible for TSA PreCheck® at no cost.
Members of other TTP programs
Members of other TTPs like Global Entry, NEXUS and SENTRI may have access to TSA PreCheck®.
Travel loyalty programs and rewards
Application fees could be covered as part of credit card rewards or loyalty programs. Eligible Capital One cardholders can receive a statement credit to cover the cost of the TSA PreCheck® application fee when they pay with their card. Eligible cards include:
TSA PreCheck® FAQ
Here are answers to frequently asked questions about TSA PreCheck®:
Who can apply for TSA PreCheck®?
U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals and lawful permanent residents are eligible to apply for TSA PreCheck®. Keep in mind that applying doesn’t guarantee approval or faster screening at airports.
Is there a monthly fee for TSA PreCheck® members?
There’s no monthly cost for TSA PreCheck®. The application fee covers membership for five years.
How much is TSA PreCheck® compared to Global Entry?
TSA PreCheck® costs up to $85 for five years, while Global Entry costs $120 for the same time period.
Global Entry members are also eligible for TSA PreCheck® benefits. The TSA says “If you travel internationally four or more times a year, consider enrolling in Global Entry instead of TSA PreCheck®.”
Does TSA PreCheck® offer a senior discount?
No. The TSA PreCheck® fee is the same for all applicants, regardless of age.
Key takeaways: The cost of TSA PreCheck®
For a fee of up to $85, TSA PreCheck® could help you skip long security lines in U.S. airports, making your trip a little easier. And with the right credit card, you may even be able to get the application fee reimbursed.
Explore Capital One travel rewards credit cards to find one that will reimburse you for TSA PreCheck® and offer other valuable travel benefits.
