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The Discover it Miles card offers TSA Precheck benefits, which can save you time and stress when traveling through airport security.
TSA Precheck allows you to expedite your airport security screening, reducing wait times and hassle.
To be eligible for TSA Precheck, you must be a U.S. citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident.
Enrolling in TSA Precheck is a straightforward process that can be completed online or through the TSA Precheck mobile app.
The cost of TSA Precheck is $85 for a 5-year membership, which can be paid online or at an enrollment center.
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What Is TSA Precheck
TSA Precheck is a trusted traveler program that allows low-risk travelers to receive expedited security screening at participating airports in the United States.
You can apply for TSA Precheck online or by visiting an enrollment center, and the process typically takes around 10 minutes.
The cost of TSA Precheck is $85 for a 5-year membership, which can be a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers.
To be eligible for TSA Precheck, you'll need to provide identification and undergo a background check, which is usually completed within 72 hours.
Some of the benefits of TSA Precheck include avoiding long security lines, keeping your laptop and liquids in your carry-on bag, and not having to remove your shoes or belt.
Eligibility and Enrollment
To become eligible for TSA PreCheck, you can join existing Trusted Traveler programs like Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI, or have a Known Traveler Number. If you're unsure which program to choose, use the Department of Homeland Security's interactive Trusted Traveler tool to compare options.
You must be a U.S. citizen, national, or Lawful Permanent Resident to apply for TSA PreCheck, and cannot have been convicted of certain crimes. If you already have a Known Traveler Number, you don't need to apply for another program.
To enroll in TSA PreCheck, visit an enrollment center, provide biographic information and valid identity/citizenship documents, and pay the enrollment fee. You can also pre-enroll online and schedule an appointment.
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Eligibility for Security Lanes
To become eligible to use the TSA PreCheck security lanes, you can consider joining existing Trusted Traveler programs, such as Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or even use your Known Traveler Number.
You can also use the Department of Homeland Security's interactive Trusted Traveler tool to compare the various programs and find the one that suits your needs best.
TSA PreCheck is an official trusted traveler program set up through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which requires a short online application and in-person interview.
Individuals who have been deemed eligible via other TSA initiatives can also use the TSA PreCheck security lanes.
The TSA PreCheck application program requires biographic and biometric information, such as fingerprints, photo, and citizenship and/or immigration status information and documentation.
Here's a list of the information collected for the TSA PreCheck Application Program:
- Full legal name and any aliases
- Date of birth and gender
- City, state, and country of birth
- Residential and mailing addresses
- Primary Contact information (telephone and/or email)
- Height, weight, eye color, and hair color
- Social Security Number (optional)
- Fingerprints
- Photo
- Citizenship and/or immigration status information and documentation
- Valid government photo identification.
To ensure a smooth enrollment process, make sure the name you use for enrollment matches exactly with the documents you provide for identity verification and proof of citizenship.
Eligibility
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To be eligible for TSA PreCheck, you can become a member of existing Trusted Traveler programs, including TSA PreCheck itself, Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or have a Known Traveler Number.
US citizens, nationals, or Lawful Permanent Residents can apply for TSA PreCheck, but those with certain convictions may not be eligible.
Certain US citizens, US permanent residents, and citizens of 14 foreign partner countries are eligible for Global Entry, which also grants access to TSA PreCheck benefits.
If you have a Known Traveler Number from Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or another TSA initiative, you don't need to apply for TSA PreCheck separately.
Canadian citizens can access TSA PreCheck benefits through the NEXUS program, but only American citizens or US lawful permanent residents can enroll in TSA PreCheck directly.
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Enrollment Process
To enroll in the TSA PreCheck program, you'll need to visit an enrollment center and provide biographic information and valid identity/citizenship documentation. You can pre-enroll online to provide initial biographic information and make an appointment before visiting an enrollment center.
The enrollment process also requires fingerprints, a photo, and a payment of the enrollment fee. It's recommended that you schedule an appointment, as enrollment centers may not be able to service walk-in applicants when appointment schedules are full.
You can view a list of required identity and proof of citizenship/immigration eligibility documents online. To qualify for TSA PreCheck, you'll need to meet the eligibility requirements, which can be found online as well.
If you're applying for Global Entry, you don't need to separately apply for TSA PreCheck. However, if you're applying for TSA PreCheck, you'll need to follow a similar path: fill out an online form, wait for approval, and then head to a dedicated enrollment center or select U.S. airports for an in-person interview.
The name on your TSA PreCheck application must match exactly to the valid Photo ID and proof of citizenship/immigration eligibility documents you provide when you go to the enrollment center in-person. Make sure to present the correct documents with your current legal name.
To make an appointment for card pick-up, you must first check the status of your card. If your card status indicates your card is available to be picked up, you can make an appointment online or by contacting the TSA Enrollment by IDEMIA Call Center at 855-DHS-UES1 (855-347-8371).
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Payment and Fees
You can pay for the TSA PreCheck application program using various methods, including credit cards, money orders, and checks. Credit cards are the preferred method of payment, and enrollment centers accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.
The nonrefundable enrollment fee for the TSA PreCheck application program is $76.75, which covers the operational costs associated with the background check and maintains your eligibility for a period of 5 years.
If you're looking for a way to cover the application fee, consider using a credit card that provides a statement credit for the fee. Some popular options include The Platinum Card from American Express, The Business Platinum Card from American Express, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve.
Here's a list of credit cards that offer a statement credit for the TSA PreCheck application fee:
Keep in mind that some credit cards may have additional requirements or restrictions for using the statement credit, so be sure to review the terms and conditions before applying.
Methods of Payment
Payment must be made during in-person enrollment, and credit cards are the preferred method of payment. Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover credit cards are accepted.
You can also pay with money orders, company checks, and certified/cashier's checks if they're made out to "IDEMIA" and for the exact transaction amount. Cash and personal checks are not accepted.
No change or refunds will be given, so make sure to pay the exact amount required.
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Cards with Fees
If you're planning to apply for TSA PreCheck, you'll need to pay a nonrefundable enrollment fee of $76.75, which covers the operational costs of the background check and maintains your eligibility for 5 years.
The good news is that you can get this fee refunded if you charge it to one of the dozens of credit cards that offer a statement credit for TSA PreCheck enrollment fees.
Online TSA PreCheck renewals cost $58.75, while in-person renewals cost $66.75. The renewal fee maintains your eligibility for 5 years and covers the operational costs associated with the background check.
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If you're looking for a credit card that offers a TSA PreCheck fee credit, there are plenty of options to choose from. Some popular credit cards that offer a statement credit for TSA PreCheck enrollment fees include the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, which covers the full $120 fee for Global Entry.
Here are some credit cards that offer a statement credit for TSA PreCheck enrollment fees:
Keep in mind that some credit cards may have specific requirements or restrictions for getting a statement credit for TSA PreCheck enrollment fees. Be sure to check the terms and conditions of your credit card before applying for TSA PreCheck.
Entry Costs for Children
If you're traveling with kids, you'll need to consider the costs of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry for them too.
Children 12 and under can join their parents in the TSA PreCheck expedited security line at no extra cost.
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Children aged 13 to 17 can usually join their parents, but could be randomly excluded and need to go through standard security.
If kids are traveling alone or not on the same reservation as a parent with TSA PreCheck, they'll need their own membership, which costs $78, the same as for adults.
Global Entry is a $100 application fee per child, just like for adults.
Renewal and Membership
You can renew your TSA PreCheck membership online or in person, but it's best to do it online as it's faster and cheaper. Online renewals cost $58.75 and can be completed up to six months before your expiration date.
To start the online renewal process, visit the TSA PreCheck website and follow the prompts. Most members can complete the entire process online, but some may be directed to renew in person at an enrollment center after filling out the online form.
You can renew your TSA PreCheck membership up to six months before your expiration date, which is your Known Traveler Number (KTN) expiration date. This ensures you'll continue to see the TSA PreCheck indicator on your boarding pass when traveling within or from the U.S.
The cost of a TSA PreCheck membership renewal varies depending on how you complete the process. Online renewals cost $58.75, while in-person renewals at an enrollment center cost $66.75.
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Using TSA Precheck
To use TSA Precheck, you'll need to enter your Known Traveler Number (KTN) when booking travel reservations on participating airlines.
You can enter your KTN online, via phone with the airline reservation center, or with a travel management company making the reservation.
It's also a good idea to store your KTN in your airline's frequent flyer profile, so it's automatically included in future reservations.
If you're having issues with TSA Precheck, double-check that your name, date of birth, and KTN are correct in your reservation.
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Using Your Known Traveler Number (KTN)
To use your Known Traveler Number (KTN), you'll need to enter it in the 'Known Traveler Number' field when booking travel reservations on participating airlines.
You can enter your KTN when booking online, over the phone with the airline reservation center, or through a travel management company making the reservation.
Your KTN can also be entered in participating airline frequent flyer profiles, where it will be stored for future reservations.
Make sure to double-check your reservation to verify that your name, date of birth, and KTN are correct if you're not receiving TSA PreCheck when you travel.
If you continue to have issues, contact the TSA Contact Center at www.tsa.gov/contact-center/form/precheck.
Using Card Rewards
You can use credit card rewards to help cover the cost of TSA PreCheck. If you have a top cash back card, you can earn rewards that can be redeemed as statement credits to cover your TSA PreCheck application.
Rewards from these cards can help you save money on the $100 application fee. Some credit cards offer welcome bonuses that can be used towards TSA PreCheck.
Consider using a cash back card if you don't want to pay an annual fee or get a travel credit card. This can be a more affordable option for getting TSA PreCheck.
Some loyalty programs also allow you to redeem rewards for TSA PreCheck, including IHG One Rewards, Marriott Bonvoy, and Southwest Airlines More Rewards. However, this method usually isn't the best option since you'll typically spend $100 or more in rewards.
If you have a bank of points or miles that are about to expire, then redeeming them for TSA PreCheck could be a decent option. Some loyalty programs occasionally offer promotions and deals on TSA PreCheck, which may help you get a discounted membership or a free membership with certain levels of elite status.
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Locations and Availability
Over 200 airports offer TSA PreCheck screening lanes, including all major airports in the U.S. This means you can take advantage of expedited security screening at a wide range of airports.
You can find an interactive map of all participating airports on the TSA website, making it easy to plan your travel and security screening needs.
The TSA PreCheck program is available at more than 200 airports, giving you plenty of options for convenient security screening.
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Cost and Benefits
Getting TSA PreCheck with a Discover card can be a great way to save time and hassle at the airport, but it's essential to understand the costs and benefits involved.
A TSA PreCheck membership costs $78 and is good for five years, so it's relatively affordable.
To get TSA PreCheck for free, you can use a credit card that reimburses the fee, such as a Discover card with a TSA PreCheck benefit.
Some credit cards, like the HSBC Premier Credit Card, offer an up to $85 reimbursement credit for TSA PreCheck every 4.5 years, but they often come with strict requirements.
If you have a credit card that reimburses the TSA PreCheck fee, you can get it for free, and some cards even offer a credit of up to $120.
However, many travel credit cards that cover TSA PreCheck come with an annual fee of anywhere from $95 to $695, so it's essential to weigh the costs and benefits.
Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a credit card for TSA PreCheck:
- TSA PreCheck application fee: $78
- TSA PreCheck annual fee: $95
- Credit cards that reimburse TSA PreCheck fee: numerous options available
- Annual fee for credit cards with TSA PreCheck benefit: $95-$695
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Discover It card pay for TSA PreCheck?
Yes, Discover It cardholders can use their card to pay for TSA PreCheck. You can also earn rewards points on your TSA PreCheck payment with the Discover it Miles card.
How do you get TSA PreCheck for free?
Get TSA PreCheck for free by using an eligible credit card that reimburses the application fee. Reimbursement is typically offered when you pay upfront with the card.
Sources
- https://tsaenrollmentbyidemia.tsa.dhs.gov/help
- https://www.cntraveler.com/story/credit-cards-tsa-precheck-global-entry
- https://www.bankrate.com/credit-cards/travel/how-to-get-tsa-precheck-using-credit-card/
- https://awardwallet.com/blog/tsa-precheck/
- https://www.afar.com/magazine/how-to-get-tsa-precheck-and-global-entry-for-free
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