The logistics of traveling for work or for pleasure can be quite a task, especially when it comes to airports. The crowds and long lines every step of the way can test even the most patient and experienced travelers. Wouldn’t it be nice if you could just jump in front of all of the other people in line?
You may have looked enviously at the short TSA Precheck security lines and wondered how people get so lucky to be in that line. This luxury is available for many people! Precheck is currently available at more than 200 airports in the United States. In my experience, smaller airports don’t offer it but standard security lines are usually shorter at those locations.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) offers the TSA Precheck program to prescreen travelers and issue a Known Traveler Number (KTN). This allows an expedited pass through security for domestic travel and even keep your shoes on as you do. In fact, you don’t have to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, or light jackets like you do in the standard security lines!
With a small time investment and $85, you can receive a KTN and skip the line for five years. This breaks down to $17 per year. Even if you only travel four times per year, the cost is a mere $4.25 per trip – worth the price for less hassle and speedier security lines.
For many people, the process starts with completing a brief application online and scheduling an appointment at an approved site to get fingerprinted and interviewed. Many individuals are approved just a few days after completing the in-person appointment and background check. You can then enter your KTN when you book flights to receive Precheck on your boarding pass, thus saving time and stress while traveling!
Check out the website here.
Start the application here.
Frequently asked questions & answers.
Cathy Mutz is a Branch Manager for the Rehab Therapy division of Aureus Medical Group.