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Understanding TSA PreCheck: What the Program Offers

TSA PreCheck is a U.S. government program that lets certain travelers move through airport security screening more quickly. When you participate in TSA PreCheck, you can go through expedited security lanes at participating airports instead of standard security screening. This means you may not have to remove your shoes, belt, or light jacket. You can also leave your laptop and liquids bag in your carry-on luggage during screening.

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The program costs $85 for a five-year membership period, which comes out to about $17 per year. However, this guide focuses on ways you may be able to receive TSA PreCheck membership at no cost to you. Several credit card companies, airlines, and loyalty programs offer TSA PreCheck reimbursement or membership as a benefit. Some employers also cover the cost for their workers.

As of 2024, TSA PreCheck is available at over 200 U.S. airports. Major hubs where the program operates include Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Atlanta, and Denver. The expedited screening process typically takes 5 to 10 minutes, compared to 20 to 30 minutes or longer in standard security lines during peak travel times. This time savings can be especially valuable for business travelers or families with young children.

The program screens about 2.7 million passengers per day as of recent reports. TSA PreCheck members represent roughly 10 percent of all airport travelers in the United States. Participation has grown steadily since the program launched in 2011.

Practical takeaway: Learn what happens when you enroll in TSA PreCheck so you understand the real-world benefits of the program and how it changes your airport experience.

How to Get TSA PreCheck Through Credit Cards and Banks

One of the most straightforward ways to receive TSA PreCheck membership for free is through a premium credit card. Many major banks and credit card companies reimburse TSA PreCheck fees as a cardholder benefit. The Chase Sapphire Reserve, for example, provides an annual $300 travel credit that can be used for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry fees. The American Express Platinum Card offers a similar benefit through its annual $250 airline incidental credit or its $100 Global Entry credit.

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The process typically works like this: you pay the $85 TSA PreCheck fee when you register through the official TSA website, then submit your receipt to your credit card company for reimbursement. Most companies process these reimbursements within 4 to 8 weeks. Some cards make the reimbursement automatic once you provide your credit card details during TSA enrollment.

Other cards that offer TSA PreCheck reimbursement include the Capital One Venture X Card, the Diners Club Carte Blanche, and various American Airlines co-branded cards. Premium travel cards from regional banks may also include this benefit. It's important to check your specific card's benefits guide to confirm whether TSA PreCheck reimbursement is included and whether there are any spending minimums or eligibility restrictions.

Some cards bundle TSA PreCheck benefits with Global Entry, which provides expedited customs and immigration processing when you return to the United States from international travel. Global Entry costs $100 and includes TSA PreCheck benefits automatically. If your card covers Global Entry, you receive TSA PreCheck for free as part of the package.

Practical takeaway: Review your current credit cards and banking accounts to see if any existing benefits cover TSA PreCheck fees, potentially saving you $85 without signing up for a new account.

Southwest Airlines and Airline-Specific TSA PreCheck Benefits

Southwest Airlines offers TSA PreCheck reimbursement through several pathways. Southwest Rapid Rewards co-branded credit cards provide a $75 annual TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit. The card also grants other travel benefits like priority boarding and free checked bags on Southwest flights. This credit can be used to offset the TSA PreCheck enrollment fee.

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Some Southwest corporate travel programs and business accounts include TSA PreCheck reimbursement as an employee benefit. Companies that partner with Southwest for travel management may receive credits or account benefits that cover PreCheck fees for their employees. If you travel frequently for work, check with your company's travel department to see if this benefit is available to you.

Other airlines have similar programs. United Airlines co-branded credit cards include Global Entry credits that cover TSA PreCheck. American Airlines cards offer benefits through their loyalty program partnerships. Delta offers PreCheck benefits through certain corporate travel accounts and premium credit cards.

Some airline frequent flyer programs at the elite level include TSA PreCheck or Global Entry reimbursement. Members who reach high status tiers may receive annual credits that can cover the PreCheck fee. These benefits vary by airline and change periodically, so checking directly with your preferred airline's website or calling customer service provides the most current information.

The advantage of airline-specific benefits is that they often align with other travel perks you may already use, like priority boarding, free bags, or lounge access. Combining these benefits with a travel credit card can create a comprehensive travel benefits package that covers multiple costs throughout the year.

Practical takeaway: Contact your preferred airline or review your airline credit card benefits to understand what TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credits may be available to you as a cardholder or frequent flyer member.

Military, Government, and Employment-Based TSA PreCheck Programs

Members of the U.S. military and certain federal employees may receive TSA PreCheck at no cost through their employer. Active-duty service members, reservists, and National Guard members can often obtain TSA PreCheck reimbursement through military travel benefits or Armed Forces Recreation Center (AFRC) programs. The Veterans Health Administration also covers TSA PreCheck fees for eligible veterans in some cases.

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Federal employees in certain agencies may have TSA PreCheck costs covered under their agency's security clearance or travel authorization programs. Some agencies reimburse PreCheck fees for employees who travel frequently on official business. The extent of coverage varies by agency and employee classification.

Private employers increasingly cover TSA PreCheck as a travel benefit for employees who travel for work. Companies in consulting, technology, finance, and sales often reimburse PreCheck fees as part of their travel benefits package. Some employers provide the reimbursement automatically, while others require employees to submit receipts for reimbursement.

To explore this option, contact your human resources or benefits department and ask whether your employer covers TSA PreCheck fees. If you're self-employed or work for a small business, ask whether a business membership or group rate might be available through your industry association or professional organization.

State and local government employees may also have access to TSA PreCheck through their employer benefits. Police officers, firefighters, and transportation workers in some jurisdictions receive PreCheck at no cost due to their professional roles and security clearances.

Practical takeaway: Check with your employer's benefits department, HR office, or military service branch to determine whether TSA PreCheck reimbursement or membership may be available to you at no out-of-pocket cost.

Understanding TSA PreCheck Registration and Renewal Processes

The TSA PreCheck registration process involves several steps that you'll complete through the official TSA website or at an enrollment center. First, you create an online account and provide basic biographical information. Next, you pay the $85 fee using a credit or debit card. Finally, you schedule an in-person appointment at one of approximately 380 enrollment centers across the country.

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At your enrollment appointment, a TSA officer will verify your identity using government-issued documents such as a passport, driver's license, or military ID. The appointment typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. You'll have your fingerprints taken digitally for a background check. TSA conducts a thorough vetting process that reviews criminal history, immigration status, and security flags in government databases.

After your appointment, TSA processes your background check, which usually takes 2 to 3 weeks. Once approved, you receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN), which is a unique identifier that you include when booking flights. You'll also receive a TSA PreCheck card in the mail, though you don't need the physical card to use the benefit—just include your KTN in your airline reservation.

TSA PreCheck membership lasts for five years. When your membership approaches expiration, you can renew either online (if you meet