Should I look into TSA Pre-Check

If you have been in an airport lately, you probably noticed the TSA Pre-Check line. You probably noticed it having next to no one in line while you waited patiently in the seemingly never ending security line. What is this exactly and who has permission to use it?

TSA Pre-check is an awesome amenity for all travelers but mostly for frequent travelers (in an airport 3 times or more a year). The basis of this service is a pre-check from TSA that runs your background information and allows you to get approved prior to traveling. You will get a Known Traveler Number (KTN) and allows you to go through the much shorter line and avoid doing the same security measures like taking off your shoes, belts, taking out computers, etc. For us, traveling as much as we do, it is very much worth the time and application fee to get through security often in minutes. Here is how to get your approval :

• Look up your nearest TSA Pre-Check location : You can do a quick Google search to find this. You type in your Zip and it will give you locations close to your location.

• Apply online for a screening : This is a quick appointment in person that includes fingerprinting and background check.

• Application fee : Last we did it, it was $85/per person. This is valid for 5 years of travel and children under 12 can accompany their parents, which makes it much easier for us. I would assume this would be the same cost but you will want to verify by location.
  

• Get issued a Known Traveler Number : Keep this number and submit it when you book a ticket. This will get the TSA Pre-check stamped on your boarding pass. You go right up to the Pre-check line, show them your boarding pass (paper or mobile) and you get in line. In January 2023, 92% of TSA Pre-check passengers waited less than 5 minutes in security. Well worth it!
  

• Anyone other than children with Pre-check parent need KTN : Unlike other amenities in the airport, if you are looking to utilize TSA Pre-check, you will need to get approved. If you are traveling with friends and family that have it, make sure you get approved as well so you do not have to split up in security lines.
  

• Availability of TSA Pre-check : More than 200 airport and 85+ airline are involved in TSA Pre-check but verify with the specific airport you are flying out of.

I hope this helps you out and gets you and/or your family through security with ease!