The Points Mom

TSA Pre √

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Years ago we had our TSA Pre√ appointment so I thought I would take the opportunity to write a little bit about the TSA application program.

TSA Pre√ is one of Homeland Security’s Trusted Traveler Programs and is the best option for people that primarily fly within the United States.  Basically, the program allows low risk travelers, who have a Known Traveler Number, to experience the benefit of expedited screening through the TSA Pre√ lanes.  These lanes offer quicker transit through airport security screening because there is no removal of belt, shoes, light jackets and laptops from carry-ons, not to mention that there will be less people eligible to go on this line.

Currently, a number of carriers participate in TSA Pre√ and you can access the list here.  In addition, TSA Pre√ operations are available at more than 120 U.S. airports.

To obtain a Known Traveler Number and thus become eligible for the expedited screening, you must complete an online application.  You must then schedule an appointment at a TSA Pre√ application center.  There are more than 280 centers nationwide.  For our appointment, we traveled about 37 miles to NYC.

At your appointment, you pay the $85 fee,  and provide valid government identification and fingerprints.  The $85 fee is good for 5 years.  Don’t forget, if you have certain cards, you can get a statement credit every 5 years for an application fee.  After your appointment, a Known Traveler Number will be sent to you via U.S. mail or can be obtained online.

Once successfully enrolled, provide your Known Traveler Number in the ’Known Traveler Number’ field when making airline reservations. Additionally, you should update your frequent flyer profiles AND contact your airline regarding any previous reservations.  The TSA Blog has helpful tips for updating this information.

Note, family members ages 12 and under traveling with an eligible parent or guardian with a TSA Pre indicator on their boarding pass can participate in expedited screening

Before you travel, you will know that you have been cleared for TSA Pre√ because the information will be embedded in the barcode of your boarding pass. Once the boarding pass is scanned at the checkpoint, you hopefully will be referred to the TSA Pre√ lane. The participating airlines will also print a TSA Pre√ indicator directly on the boarding pass.  This will come in the form of “TSA Pre√,” “TSA PRE” or “TSA PRECHK” on your boarding passes.

You can read about our TSA Pre√ appointment here.