Is TSA PreCheck Worth It?

Every time you go to the airport to travel somewhere, getting through security can be extremely long and time-consuming. As security is a huge concern at every airport, the TSA security checks have become a long and rigorous screening process that can be extremely tedious and annoying to go through. This screening process has without a doubt made many travelers miss their flights and to combat this problem the TSA has introduced a program to streamline the security screening process called TSA PreCheck. However, the question has to be asked whether if TSA PreCheck is worth it? 

What is TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck is a program managed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that gives low-risk travelers an expedited security screening process at U.S. airports. This means that when you have TSA PreCheck, you gain access to dedicated security lanes where you can go through the screening process without removing shoes, belts, light jackets, laptops, or other mobile devices you might be bringing with you on the plane. 

The program itself was launched in 2013 and has since grown in popularity as it offered millions of passengers the benefit of avoiding congested security lines, making their trips to the airport super convenient. This program also makes it extremely useful for frequent travelers who either travel abroad for vacations or for work, because it allows them to save time from a repetitive process. 

Is TSA PreCheck Difficult to Get?

Getting TSA PreCheck is generally easy; however, you must either be a U.S. citizen, national, or permanent resident to be initially considered. If that is not an issue then the application process is relatively simple as you mainly need to fill out a few forms, provide all of the necessary details, and pay an application fee of around $78. 

Once you have submitted all of the necessary information, you would need to make an appointment at an enrollment center where they would need to conduct a background check and scan your fingerprints for identification. After you have completed the necessary steps, you would need to wait for approval which can take anywhere within 3-5 days, but some applications may take up to 60 days. Once approved, travelers would receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that they would use to access all of the benefits that come with TSA PreCheck. 

Can You Be Disqualified From TSA PreCheck?

You can be disqualified from TSA PreCheck and denied access if you commit any crimes or violations against federal security laws and regulations. Violations and crimes such as physical/sexual assault, threats, intimidation, interference with security operations, providing false documents, and bringing firearms and prohibited items to an airport are all instances where potential applicants can be denied and disqualified from TSA PreCheck. 

The duration of the disqualification will be dependent on the nature and severity of the crime/violation, and repeat offenses can result in permanent disqualification. While this is not applicable to most travelers, it is important to know if you or anyone else was denied due to an incident of that scale.  

What Benefits Does TSA Precheck Get You?

The main benefit travelers can expect from TSA PrCheck is the expedited security screening process. According to the TSA, by using TSA PreCheck passengers would only have to wait an average of 10 minutes or less to get past security, and passengers don’t have to remove any shoes, belts, jackets, laptops, liquids, and anything in their pockets. This can be such a game-changer for frequent travelers who want to minimize the time and hassle they spend in lines. 

TSA PreCheck is also available at more than 200 airports across the United States and with over 90 airlines, meaning that this wide coverage allows you to benefit from the program on most domestic flights. On top of that, children under 17 years old can accompany their parents or guardians without a TSA PreCheck of their own and this makes family travel more convenient and stress-free, especially for travel around the holidays. 

Is There a Downside to TSA Precheck?

Considering the benefits of TSA PreCheck, there are a few downsides that may deter travelers who are interested in the program. The main downside that scares away a lot of people is the initial application process because it requires them to fill out a variety of personal information, schedule an in-person appointment, and requires applicants to undergo a background check. 

This is arguably the most time-consuming process of getting TSA PreCheck, and depending on how busy they are or if there are any issues with your application, you might not hear back from them until 60 days have passed, which can be an issue for those who want it quickly for an upcoming trip. In addition, the other main downside of TSA PreCheck is the cost, because while TSA PreCheck lasts about 5 years, those who don’t travel as much might not be able to justify the price for the amount of time you can save at security. 

Is TSA Precheck Worth Having?

TSA PreCheck can be well worth the investment if you travel frequently or intend on traveling more in the foreseeable future. While the initial application process and cost might be a barrier for some, the convenience and time savings can be well worth it for those who travel regularly and with a large group. As such, if you are traveling with young children who are very rambunctious or those who have mobility issues, TSA PreCheck can be worth the cost that makes your traveling less stressful and easier. However, before you apply and pay for any application fees, you must look at your travel habits to determine if TSA PreCheck is the right choice for you.