What is TSA PreCheck? Is TSA PreCheck worth it? In this post, we’ll examine how the program works, the benefits you get, and the drawbacks. As a frequent traveler, I’ve used it for years and can give you an honest assessment so you know exactly what you’re in for. Keep reading to hear more about how it works and if you should sign up for yourself…
Several years ago, someone gave me the advice to sign up for TSA PreCheck.
At the time, I’d heard of it but didn’t know much about it. And I wondered what it was all about…
How much was it?
How did it work?
Do I really need it?
You may be wondering the same things yourself….
What Is TSA PreCheck?
Before you can decide if you want to enroll, let’s quickly go over what TSA PreCheck is:
Simply put, it’s a U.S. government program you apply for that affects how you’re screened at the airport.
The intent of the program is that you move quicker through security (because you’ve already been pre-screened). Hence the name!
How To Apply For TSA PreCheck
You start by filling out a quick application online, then go for an in-person appointment where they do a background check and fingerprint you. Here’s some good news:
Start to finish, it doesn’t take more than an hour or two to get signed up.
But there is a downside…
Once you’ve applied, it typically takes 2-3 weeks for your application to be processed. It can be a slow process. So my advice is to plan ahead if you have a trip coming up. You’ll need patience for this part!
How Much Does It Cost?
As for pricing, it costs $85 and it lasts for 5 years. Essentially, that’s $17 per year. You’d pay more than that eating at a restaurant once. So considering that, it’s pretty reasonably priced.
However, it’s still $85 of your hard-earned money. And TSA PreCheck may or may not be worth it to you. It really depends on a few other factors (that we’ll get into below).
TIP: There are credit cards out there that will reimburse you the cost – check the list here.
Skipping The Line
Have you ever taken advantage of line-skipping at an amusement park like Disney? Or called in an order at a restaurant so it’s ready when you get there?
We do these things for convenience, and TSA PreCheck is no different.
It’s one of the things I really like about the program. Your airline ticket now becomes your “fast pass” to cut through security lines.
You’ll see at the top of your boarding pass it says “TSA PreCheck”. This qualifies you to use a separate line when going through the security checkpoint. There’s a line for regular passengers and a different line for TSA PreCheck passengers.
This can be a huge advantage! There are so many times I’ve gone to the airport and hundreds of people are in the regular line (and only 5-10 in the PreCheck line). I mean, nobody likes waiting in line. It’s so nice to avoid it!
However, here’s a caveat – there have been times when you don’t exactly get the full benefits of having TSA PreCheck. For example, I’ve seen on multiple occasions that the TSA PreCheck line is actually longer than the regular line.
Another thing that can happen, for example, is that TSA PreCheck only has one lane open while the rest of security has three lanes open. So you can see how, at times, the difference between how fast you get through might be minimal.
So Is It Really Faster?
Getting through the line quicker is one aspect of the process. Once the TSA agents have checked your boarding pass and ID, you move on to the metal detectors.
One nice advantage of TSA PreCheck is that you don’t have to take off your shoes and jacket. While this might seem like a small thing, lots of people dressing and undressing can really slooowwww things down.
So you (most likely) got through the line faster, and now you can get through security faster. Double win!
Keep in mind that occasionally, depending on the type of shoe you wear, they may ask you to remove them. In my experience, it’s only happened when I’m wearing boots or shoes with metal hardware. But it’s something to consider and may slow you down.
Something Else To Consider…
Have you ever been running late on your way to the airport?
I have, and it’s a terrible and frantic feeling.
I’ve had a few instances where, if I hadn’t had TSA PreCheck I definitely would’ve missed my flight!
Shorter lines and quicker screening saves time (and you never know when you might need it).
Now it’s not a guarantee, because you just never know if the airport will be having a busy day. But it’s nice to know that you do have a built-in time cushion if you have unexpected delays or run into traffic on the way to the airport.
Is TSA PreCheck Worth It?
If you’re still deciding whether or not to get TSA PreCheck, here are a few things to consider before you make your decision:
1. How often do you fly?
If you only fly once every few years, you won’t have many instances to use TSA PreCheck and it may not be worth it.
But if you fly 3 or more times a year, it’s totally worth it!
2. Which airport do you typically use?
TSA PreCheck is available at over 200 airports in the U.S., but many small or regional airports do not offer the service.
Check first before you apply so you aren’t disappointed if you get approved, then later find out you can’t use it at your local airport.
3. Are You Traveling With Kids?
If so, there are some nice benefits. They can join you in the TSA PreCheck line if they’re 12 years or younger!
Meaning they don’t need to sign up, do the background check, or anything. Once they turn 13, however, they will need their own account.
4. Are you in the military?
Your military ID serves as a sort of “automatic” TSA PreCheck. Members of the military don’t need to sign up for anything additional, they already have the benefits of TSA PreCheck.
My Two Cents
Have you ever tried something new and thought to yourself, where has this been all my life? I should’ve been doing this all along!
In my opinion, TSA PreCheck is a game-changer if it’s a good fit for your lifestyle and how you like to travel.
Now that you know what it’s all about and how easy it is to sign up, what are you waiting for? Remember to start the application process at least a month before your trip so you can speed through security and skip those lines!
Other Great Travel Resources
Hate long flights? Check out my post Keeping Your Sanity On Long Flights.
And speaking of flights, have you ever wondered what not to bring on a plane? I can answer all your questions – just make sure you don’t bring anything on this list with you on the plane.
And as you’re planning your trip, be sure to read more about what to pack so you never leave anything important at home.
