Why TSA PreCheck is a Great Value

Updated: Feb 18, 2023

Have you ever arrived at the airport for your trip, dreaming about a smooth flight to somewhere warm, fun and relaxing, to have your plans of a smooth trip delayed by a very long and very slow Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening line?

I travel frequently and one of the best investments that I have made is TSA PreCheck. At a cost of $85 for 5 years ($17 per year), it is a bargain. Why? Over 90% of travelers are able to clear security within 5 minutes with TSA PreCheck!

What is TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck® is an expedited screening program that makes risk assessments about passengers prior to their arrival at an airport checkpoint. TSA PreCheck® enhances aviation security and provides a better travel experience.

Once you have TSA PreCheck, your travel experience becomes so much easier. Whenever you make an airline reservation, add your PreCheck information to your profile for that airline. Once on your profile, TSA Precheck will be then be automatically added to your boarding pass.

How is the TSA PreCheck security line different?

When you go through the TSA PreCheck security line, you show your ID, then put your bags, phones and anything metal (keys, belts with large buckles, Bluetooths) on the conveyor to be scanned.

You don't have to remove your shoes.
You don't have to remove your computer from your bag.
You don't have to remove your one quart bag of liquids from your bag.
You don't have to remove your belt.
You don't have to remove light jackets.

You walk through the scanner, pickup your items off the conveyor and go to your gate.

Because those with TSA Precheck are preapproved, the screening process goes much quicker and the lines are shorter. The rules for what you can put in your carry on bag remain the same, but the screening process is much easier!

How to sign up for TSA PreCheck?

Go to the TSA website for details.

The cost is $85 for 5 years ($17 per year)
You can apply online then visit an enrollment center, or you can schedule a 10 minute appointment to enroll in person.
Staples has partnered with TSA PreCheck and has enrollment centers in many of their stores. For more info about enrollment centers in Staples stores check here:

Did you say free TSA PreCheck???

According to the TSA Website, many Credit Cards and Loyalty Programs cover some or the entire TSA PreCheck application fee or allow you to pay with frequent flyer miles / points.
Here is a link to the TSA article.
Contact your credit card company or loyalty program to learn more.

Do You Travel Internationally?

You may want to consider applying for Global Entry. It is a program similar to TSA PreCheck that is recognized in many airports worldwide.

The cost is $100 for five years ($20 per year).
TSA PreCheck is included with Global Entry
The instructions on how to apply for Global Entry are here:
One important thing: There are not a lot Enrollment Centers for Global Entry; before you apply, check here to see if there is one near you.
Also, it may take a while to get an appointment at an Enrollment Center. An exception is if you are returning to the US from an international trip.

What happens at the end of your five years?

At the end of your five years, it is easy to renew your TSA PreCheck online from six months before it expires.

If you have TSA PreCheck and want to upgrade to Global Entry, you have to start the application process all over again. Once approved for Global Entry, you will receive a new TSA PreCheck number.

What are you waiting for?

Are you tired of standing in long airport security lines? Are you ready to get to your destination? TSA PreCheck might be just what you need to get to your destination with a lot less hassle. What are you waiting for?