In March of 2020, the TSA PreCheck program enrolled its ten-millionth member.
That’s a significant portion of jet-setters in the United States who continue to report shorter airport security lines and more convenient physical airport security screening procedures, like leaving their shoes and belts on or keeping their electronics in their carry-ons.
So, if you’re on the fence about renewing your TSA PreCheck enrollment—because of cost, inconvenience, or potential ineligibility—this article might sway you to stick with the traveler’s program. We’ll tell you how to check your TSA Pre enrollment status, explain how to renew TSA PreCheck, the difference between TSA PreCheck vs Clear, and help you determine whether or not you’re still eligible.
TSA PreCheck enrollment expires five years after the initial approval of your Known Traveler Number (KTN).
A lot can happen in five years—if it’s been a while since your last trip, or if you’ve simply forgotten when you were approved, you can check your status anytime. But, there are only two ways to find your status:
To ensure timely renewal of your KTN, the TSA recommends renewing your PreCheck enrollment six months before the expiration date. Even if you’re used to giving the government a wide berth for processing time, travelers can’t renew their PreCheck enrollment more than six months before the expiration date.
If your PreCheck member expiration date is coming up, the following steps will help you navigate the TSA PreCheck renewal process with ease.
For the average traveler, renewing a PreCheck enrollment is significantly easier than the initial application process.
First, TSA PreCheck members must complete an online renewal form that’s nearly identical to the form for first-time applicants. In most cases, you won’t have to return to an in-person enrollment center for another identity check and fingerprinting.
You’ll also pay the $70 renewal fee—while the fee was recently decreased, the financial obligation can still make a dent in your checking account balance. But, there are still opportunities for a discount—if you’re interested in finding a discount (and for simplifying the renewal process), reach out to GovPlus. We can streamline your TSA PreCheck renewal procedures and so you can focus on the benefits—an easier, seamless flying experience.
In some cases, the TSA will request another in-person identity check during the PreCheck renewal process. There are two main reasons why you might be asked to schedule an appointment at an enrollment center during your renewal:
If your name has changed, bring proof of your name change to your appointment along with the other required documents. A marriage certificate, a final divorce order, or a final judgment for a name change are all appropriate documents that prove your legal name change.
After you submit your renewal application, pay the fees, and attend an in-person appointment at an enrollment center (if needed), the only thing left to do is wait.
The Department of Homeland Security processes most renewal applications in three to five business days, but some renewals can take up to sixty days to complete. You can check the status of your application online anytime.
Once you’re approved, you’ll receive a notification via phone or email. Since your KTN will remain the same, you can proceed through the PreCheck security checkpoint line as normal for trips booked before your renewal date.
Before completing the renewal application and paying the non-refundable application fee, make sure that you still meet the requirements for TSA PreCheck and understand what TSA PreCheck does. TSA PreCheck fliers must:
Your eligibility status may have changed since your initial application or your most recent renewal, so review the requirements carefully before submitting the renewal form. Since PreCheck member applications and renewals require a background check, it’s unlikely that you’ll be granted PreCheck status if you no longer meet the requirements.
If you’re unsure if you still meet the eligibility requirements when it’s time to renew, speak with one of our experts before starting the process. And when you’re ready, to avoid the hustle and bustle of getting a TSA PreCheck in person, simply fill out this form to apply for TSA PreCheck online right now.
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