Here's What To Do If TSA PreCheck Doesn't Show Up On Your Boarding Pass
TSA Precheck is a great way to save time when going through airport security. However, your membership in the program must show up on your boarding pass to go through the Precheck lines. When you become part of the program, you're given a Known Traveler Number (KTN), which you will use to book future flights. As long as you enter your KTN number during booking, you'll receive a green check symbol on your boarding pass, enabling you to go through the Precheck gates.
If the check mark doesn't show up on your boarding pass, the first thing to do is log into your TSA Precheck account to make sure that it hasn't expired. You should also ensure that all of your details are correct, such as your KTN, name, and date of birth. It is also useful to double-check that your airline accepts TSA Precheck. If none of these things are the cause, then get in touch with the TSA Contact Center, which will be able to help. You can get through to them by phone, online, on X (formally known as Twitter), or via Facebook Messenger. They advise contacting them within 72 hours of discovering that you have an issue.
Other things to know about TSA PreCheck
There are other things you can do to ensure that you don't encounter issues with TSA PreCheck in the future. One of these is to update your frequent flyer accounts with your KTN. This way, the number can easily be applied to future flights. You should also note down when it expires so that you know when to renew your TSA Precheck again to keep your benefits. TSA PreCheck membership is valid for five years.
One thing that can still happen, regardless of completing your Precheck paperwork, is a Secondary Security Screening Selection (SSSS). If you see "SSSS" on your boarding pass, you've been chosen for additional security checks. Unfortunately, SSSS means that you won't be able to use the Precheck line. TSA doesn't guarantee that Precheck can always be used, as airport security takes priority.
How to apply for TSA Precheck
There are lots of perks to TSA Precheck, as you won't need to endure the hassle of removing clothing or taking electronics and liquids out of your luggage at airport security. TSA Precheck is accepted at 200 airports in the U.S., and 90 different carriers, including international airlines, are enrolled in the program. Before you decide on a trusted traveler program, check the eligibility requirements on the U.S. Homeland Security website.
To register, find an enrollment location using the TSA website. You can fill in some of your paperwork online and make an in-person appointment at the center. (You could also walk in to get a slot). The actual process only takes about 15 minutes in total: five minutes to fill out the online form and 10 minutes to collect your fingerprints, photograph, confirm your identity documents, and pay for your Precheck at an enrollment center. Certain credit cards will even reimburse you for the TSA Precheck application fee.