TSA PreCheck helps streamline the airport screening process for travelers departing from U.S. airports, including MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV). Below is a closer look at the benefits of the program and the enrollment providers that support it.
Faster and More Convenient Security Screening
Waiting in long airport lines can add unnecessary stress to any trip. With TSA PreCheck, approved travelers enjoy shorter wait times by using a dedicated screening lane instead of the standard airport security line. In many cases, screening takes less than one minute, helping passengers move through the checkpoint more efficiently.
Once enrolled, traveler information is verified through the Secure Flight System, and a TSA PreCheck indicator appears on the boarding pass when eligible. This allows passengers to keep shoes, belts, light jackets, laptops and 3 1 1 liquids in their carry on bags or on their person, reducing the need to unpack at security.
At participating U.S. airports, TSA PreCheck travelers may also have access to Touchless ID screening. Instead of presenting a physical ID, eligible passengers can use face verification technology to confirm their identity with a quick scan at the checkpoint. This touchless option helps reduce contact, speeds up the screening process and adds consistency to otherwise unpredictable security measures. Accepted by many participating airlines, TSA PreCheck provides a faster, more reliable airport security experience that allows travelers to focus on reaching their gate with ease.
Family and Group Travel Benefits
TSA PreCheck can help reduce stress when traveling with family members or groups. When traveling on the same reservation, children 12 and under may use the TSA PreCheck lane at no cost when accompanied by an enrolled adult. Children 17 and under may also join their parent or guardian, but they must have a TSA PreCheck indicator on their boarding pass, which is verified through the Secure Flight System.
For families who travel often, enrolling additional travelers may be worthwhile. Some providers offer family member enrollment discounts, making it easier for everyone to benefit from faster screening and a smoother airport experience.
Comparisons with Other Security Programs
TSA PreCheck allows approved travelers to use faster TSA PreCheck lanes at participating U.S. airports. Once enrolled, travelers receive a Known Traveler Number, which is linked to their reservation through the Secure Flight System, subject to airline participation.
Other options include CBP Trusted Traveler Programs such as Global Entry, NEXUS and SENTRI, which focus on international travel and expedited reentry into the U.S. Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits, while NEXUS and SENTRI are designed for frequent travel across the Canadian and Mexican borders.
Programs like CLEAR+ use biometric verification to speed up identity checks and may offer a more seamless, curb to gate service at select airports. CLEAR+ can be used alongside TSA PreCheck and may be available through partner offers, allowing travelers to combine benefits for a smoother security experience.
Cost and Payment Options
A TSA PreCheck five year membership offers long term convenience at a relatively low cost, though prices may vary by enrollment provider and enrollment locations. Travelers may also find pricing variation depending on whether they are enrolling for the first time or renewing. From time to time, promotional offers may be available, including savings such as $25 off TSA PreCheck enrollment and renewal fees through select providers or partners.
Many travel credit cards offer an application fee credit or statement credit that can cover the cost of TSA PreCheck or a CLEAR+ membership, sometimes resulting in a full credit — such as a refund of $79.95 — after payment is posted. Special pricing may also be available for eligible groups, including military spouses, through participating providers. Comparing providers, card benefits and current promotions can help travelers choose the most cost effective option for their needs.
Enrollment, Application Process and Requirements
Travelers can begin the TSA PreCheck online application at any time through an approved enrollment provider. Providers such as IDEMIA, Telos and CLEAR+ applications guide applicants through the steps, which typically include completing the application, scheduling an in-person appointment and visiting an authorized enrollment center to finalize enrollment. TSA also conducts identity verification, fingerprint capture services and a federal background check as part of a required threat assessment. During the appointment, applicants must present required documents, such as a valid U.S. passport, and may be asked to review and sign a TSA acknowledgement form. In some cases, additional documents, such as a verification letter, may be required.
To find a convenient enrollment location, TSA provides an online enrollment center locator that allows applicants to search by ZIP code or airport code to find nearby centers and available partner locations. TSA PreCheck enrollment generally costs between $77 and $85 and is valid for five years. Once approved, travelers receive a Known Traveler Number to add to their airline reservations and boarding passes. For those renewing, some providers may offer lower fees or added convenience for travelers who complete a renewal application in person.
Certain programs, such as the Flight Training Security Program (FTSP), may have added requirements beyond standard TSA PreCheck enrollment. While most applications are processed quickly, an application processing delay can occur if additional review is needed. Completing all required steps accurately and responding promptly to follow up requests can help ensure the process moves forward as smoothly as possible.
Choosing an Enrollment Provider
Approved enrollment services providers support TSA PreCheck by managing applications, identity verification and in person enrollment services. All providers must meet strict TSA contract requirements and follow federal standards for data privacy and security, ensuring that personal and biometric enrollment data is collected, stored and protected responsibly.
While all providers follow the same TSA guidelines, differences do exist. Pricing, available enrollment locations and promotional offers may vary by provider. Some operate primarily at airports, while others offer off airport or pop up locations, giving travelers greater flexibility when scheduling an appointment.
Military members and families should take note of eligibility options as well — individuals with a DoD/Uniformed Services Identification (USID) card, military survivor families or those with an eligibility verification letter may qualify for a military family discount or streamlined enrollment through select providers.
Comparing providers based on location, cost, services and eligibility benefits can help travelers choose the enrollment option that best fits their needs.
Provider Partnerships and Program Bundles
Many TSA PreCheck enrollment providers offer added convenience by bundling multiple trusted traveler and security programs into a single application process. In addition to TSA PreCheck, travelers and workers may be able to enroll in or renew credentials tied to related federal security programs, such as the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) program or the Hazardous Materials Endorsement Threat Assessment Program (HME).
These provider partnerships can streamline appointment scheduling, identity verification and fingerprinting, saving time for individuals who need multiple credentials for travel or work. Choosing an enrollment provider that supports program bundles can help simplify compliance requirements while keeping security clearances and travel benefits conveniently aligned in one place.
To learn more, visit tsa.gov/precheck.