A Frequent Traveler Must | TSA Precheck

Is there anything worse than being stuck in a long line for security at the airport when you’re running late for a flight? If only there were a way to skip the long line and get to your flight faster! Well I have good news for all of you who are like me and tend to get to the airport later than the “recommended minimum time.” For anyone who hasn’t heard of TSA Precheck, it is basically like a FastPass at Disney World, but for the airport security line! 

Skip The Line, Stay On Time

Going through security at the airport can be a stressful time. Families traveling with children, business people on a work trip, and college students headed to spring break all in one place. There are a variety of reasons why the line might be long for general security. That’s where TSA Precheck comes in to save time and headaches. Most airports in the United States, over 200, contain dedicated TSA Precheck lines through security. A stat from the TSA website mentioned that in March 2019, 92% of passengers in Precheck waited 5 minutes or less to get through security. Since getting Precheck myself, I can confirm that the wait is usually around 5 minutes or less.

How To Apply for TSA Precheck?

The application for TSA Precheck is very easy. First start by visiting their website to begin an application online. There is a large Apply Now button at the top. Once you apply online, the next step is to schedule an interview and background check at one of the enrollment centers. There are over 380 enrollment centers, so you should be able to find one near by. The background check and fingerprinting will occur at the enrollment center. When I did it, it took maybe 15 minutes total. And lastly, an email confirming if you are accepted into the program will be sent to you.

Cost vs Benefits

Unfortunately there is a fee to join TSA Precheck, but it is a small fee. It only costs $85 for a 5 year membership currently. Personally, I think it is totally worth it for the time saved in the airport. When using the Precheck lane, you don’t have to remove shoes, belts, light jackets, laptops or liquids. The time to take all those items off and out of bags is one of the main reasons this line is so much shorter. Another option to consider would be Global Entry which is a similar program, but is a better choice for people traveling internationally regularly. I will cover Global Entry in a later post. Here is a link where you can compare the different security programs.

Whether you travel yearly, monthly, or daily via an airport, TSA Precheck takes the pain out of getting through security. Joining this program has been one of my best choices when it comes to traveling. I would encourage everyone to apply. Also be sure to check your credit card perks because some cards contain a credit to use towards the application fee. As always remember to get out and Explore Every Day while Seeking Discovery. We will talk to you in the next post!