If you travel a lot, you’ve probably had your fill of waiting in long security lines. Sometimes, a long line can take nearly an hour to clear, and unless you’ve arrived very early, you could find yourself running to catch your flight when you finally make it through.
There are ways around these long lines, especially if you travel within the United States. If you are willing to pay a small fee and you are able to pass the application process, the TSA PreCheck Program is well worth your time. With this program, you can skip the long lines and move through most U.S. airports much more quickly. So if you’re wondering “is it worth signing up? ” here’s some information that may help you make up your mind.
What is TSA PreCheck?
The TSA PreCheck Program is a passenger program headed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) since 2011 to allow trustworthy passengers in the U.S. to move into security lines at airports that are much shorter and quicker to get through than the regular security lines. It is one of five different passenger programs that are available in the United States.
The TSA was created in 2001 in response to the September 11 attacks and is responsible for the safety of flights and passengers within the U.S. The PreCheck Program is designed to speed up the boarding and security processes for passengers that are deemed “trustworthy.”
Over 180 different airports participate in the TSA PreCheck Program across the country so there’s always a good chance that your membership will save you time on every flight you take within the country.
The Benefit of the PreCheck Program
The benefit of becoming a PreCheck member is that you no longer have to spend time waiting in long security lines.
Rather than join the security line that’s snaking around the airport and moving slow, you can skip to a special security line for PreCheck members. Your PreCheck membership number will be embedded in your boarding pass information, so all you have to do is show it to the TSA officer, just as you would in the normal security line.
But rather than be forced to take your belt and shoes of, you can move right through to a quick screening. You can also leave your jacket on as well. Of course, there is still the possibility that you may get randomly chosen for additional screening, but this happens very rarely.
With the TSA PreCheck Program, you’re through the security line and off to your plane in no time.
Who Qualifies for the Program?
If you are a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident, then you can apply for the program, but there are many stipulations that you must pass in order to receive final confirmation.
First, you must not put any false information on your application, Doing so will automatically disqualify you. Secondly, there are some criminal offenses that will automatically disqualify you as well.
Obviously, extreme charges in your past such as violent crimes and terrorism will disqualify you from the program. But smaller offenses, like robbery, bribery, smuggling and arson will make you ineligible for approval. Also, if you are currently wanted or are a subject of an ongoing investigation, your application will be denied.
Here’s a list of all of the offenses that will disqualify you, so look them over before applying.
How to Apply
The application process for the TSA PreCheck Program is fairly straightforward.
First, you will need to fill out an application. You will need to provide personal information such as your legal name, birthdate, address, etc. Again, do not put any false information on your application because the TSA will find out and you will be immediately disqualified.
Once your application has been accepted, you will need to set up an in-person interview. At this interview, the TSA agent will interview you about all of the information you’ve provided on your application as well as ask you questions about your travel history and future travel plans. The process usually takes about 15 minutes.
If you are accepted into the program, you will be required to pay an $85 fee and your membership will last for five years. After that, you’ll need to reapply and repay the fee if you want to keep your status.
For many travelers, the TSA PreCheck Program is worth it, as it saves you tie on nearly every flight.
Ella Woods works for the airport security and as an avid traveler herself, enjoys writing about travel in her articles whether she’s covering check-in and security tips or destination guides.