TSA Lowers Cost of PreCheck Enrollment, Renewal Fees

Easier movement through airport security lines just got a little cheaper.

The Transportation Security Administration recently announced that the fee for its PreCheck program for travelers has dropped from $85 to $78 for both enrollment and renewal.

The program allows travelers to go through an expedited security screening process at U.S. airports. They do not have to remove shoes, jackets or belts, and electronics and liquids can stay in carry-on bags.

Enrollees get a five-year membership that can be renewed. In October, 91 percent of PreCheck passengers waited less than five minutes at airport security checkpoints nationwide, according to the TSA.

“For individuals and families with plans to fly this holiday season, now is the time to enroll or renew in TSA PreCheck,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske said in a statement. “TSA PreCheck offers significant benefits to those who meet its enrollment standards—less physical contact, fewer items on the conveyor belt and faster screening.”

Travelers may submit an online application at tsa.gov/precheck and schedule an appointment at an enrollment center; one of these centers is located at Pittsburgh International Airport.

Appointments take about 10 minutes. Applicants must provide biometric and biographic information, including electronic fingerprinting, that TSA uses to conduct a security threat assessment.

Most applicants receive their Known Traveler Number (KTN) in about three to five days. Travelers must add their KTN to their flight reservations to use the PreCheck security line.