How much does TSA Precheck cost? That’s the question on many travelers’ minds these days, as the number of airlines participating in this expedited screening program continues to grow. TSA Precheck Costs $85
That said, it can still be hard to figure out whether TSA Precheck is worth the money or not, which is why we put together this breakdown on its cost so you can make an informed decision about whether or not it’s right for you and your travels.
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How much does TSA PreCheck cost?
The total cost for a 5-year pre-screening membership is $100. If you want to enroll in pre-screening but don’t feel like it’s worth $100, a 1-year membership costs $85.
There are no discounts for students or frequent fliers, though. To make sure your enrollment is money well spent, you might also want to consider whether or not you fly enough to take advantage of all that TSA PreCheck has to offer.
If you only plan on using it once every few months and will be flying domestically at that rate, it may not be worth purchasing for only one year.
What are the requirements for a free pass?
In order to qualify for TSA PreCheck, you must first pass a background check conducted by the Transportation Security Administration.
Once you’ve been cleared for participation in one of its expedited security programs, your application will be reviewed and you’ll be assigned a Known Traveler Number (KTN). Your KTN will be verified against a database before each future flight and can only be used once.
To keep your pass active and valid, you need to pay an annual fee of $85 every four years—but there are ways to qualify for TSA PreCheck without paying that fee. Some frequent fliers don’t actually have to pay it at all!
What if I am under 18?
Each applicant who is under 18 years old must appear in person with at least one parent or legal guardian and present:
(1) an Application for Transportation Security Card;
(2) two identical 2 x 2 color photographs, front view without eyeglasses or contact lenses and taken within 6 months of application submission;
(3) proof of U.S. citizenship/lawful permanent resident status; and
(4) a certified copy of one primary identification document.
The identification document can be either original or photocopy. The primary identification document should show your full name, date of birth, photo and signature.
What is an alternative to PreCheck?
There are a number of companies that offer alternatives to TSA PreCheck. OnsiteZ and Global Entry, for example, are trusted traveler programs that offer expedited screening at security checkpoints.
The main difference between these programs and TSA PreCheck is you have to apply for them in advance. To be eligible for Global Entry, you must already have a valid passport and pass an interview with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
If approved, you pay $100 to enroll ($50 if you’re a Mexican citizen or land border resident) and agree to complete a CBP background check every five years.
How do I apply?
It’s easy to apply for TSA Pre✓® . Start by registering online at tsa.gov/tsaprecheck. You’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship and identity (for example, a valid passport or government-issued ID card).
After you complete an online application, you’ll schedule an in-person appointment at one of many Application Centers around the country to visit with a representative and get fingerprinted for security background checks.
Before your appointment, make sure to have a current passport-sized photo on hand; some centers may take digital photos during your interview so that you can start using your Known Traveler Number as soon as possible.