Steps to Renew Your TSA PreCheck

For frequent travelers, TSA PreCheck simplifies the airport security experience significantly. This program, managed by the Department of Homeland Security, allows the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to pre-approve travelers, providing a more efficient security screening process.

With TSA PreCheck, members can keep their shoes, belts, and light jackets on, and laptops and liquids can remain in their bags while passing through a dedicated security lane (though liquids must still follow the 3-1-1 rule). This generally speeds up the process, as 99 percent of TSA PreCheck users wait under 10 minutes. Currently, over 200 airports in the U.S. provide TSA PreCheck services, with participation from more than 90 airlines.

If your airport or airline isn't part of the TSA PreCheck program, you'll need to undergo standard security screening. You can check the TSA’s website to see where the program is available. Remember, TSA PreCheck lanes aren’t always open around the clock, so there may be times when you have to use regular security. Also, having TSA PreCheck membership doesn’t guarantee you’ll always be able to use the expedited lane—occasionally, you might still need to go through the regular line without explanation.

TSA PreCheck memberships are not indefinite—you will need to renew your membership before it expires to maintain your benefits. Here’s what you should know about renewing your TSA PreCheck (always verify with the TSA for the latest information).

How to Enroll in TSA PreCheck

To apply for TSA PreCheck, you need to be a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident, or a Canadian resident with NEXUS, which is another Trusted Traveler Program, as stated on the TSA’s website. The application process is simple—once you apply online, you'll receive conditional approval to visit an official enrollment center for your photo and fingerprinting. After that, you'll get your Known Traveler Number (KTN), which you must enter when booking flights to access the TSA PreCheck lane.

When does TSA PreCheck membership expire?

TSA PreCheck memberships expire five years from the date of approval. If you need to check your expiration date, you can look it up online using your name and KTN. The TSA will send expiration reminders via email and/or phone (if registered) six months, three months, one month, and two weeks before your membership expires.

Remember, your TSA PreCheck membership needs to be valid on the day you travel, not just when you book your flight. So, if you purchase tickets in June for an August trip, but your TSA PreCheck expires in July, you won't be able to use the TSA PreCheck lanes at the airport.

When should you renew your TSA PreCheck membership?

You can renew your TSA PreCheck membership as early as six months before it expires. We recommend doing this promptly, as the renewal process can take up to 60 days for approval (though most people get approved within three to five days). If you are approved for renewal before your membership expires, the new membership won’t start until the old one ends, meaning your fee will cover a full five years.

How to Renew Your TSA PreCheck

The TSA collaborates with third-party companies for TSA PreCheck applications and renewals. You can find a list of current partners on the TSA PreCheck website. As of now, two companies handle renewal services: IDEMIA and Telos. You can choose either provider, regardless of who managed your original enrollment.

Most renewals only require you to complete an online form, but sometimes you may need to visit an enrollment center in person. IDEMIA charges $70 for online renewals and $78 for in-person ones, while Telos charges $70 for both types. Many travel credit cards offer up to $100 in credits for Trusted Traveler fees, including renewals—you typically just need to pay with that card, and the credit will be automatically applied to your statement.

If you renew your TSA PreCheck membership before it expires or reapply within a year of expiration, you’ll keep the same KTN number, so there’s no need to update your frequent flyer accounts with the airline.