What is TSA PreCheck?

A US program for faster airport security: approved travelers keep their shoes, belt and light jacket on and leave laptops and liquids in the bag.

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TSA PreCheck, explained

TSA PreCheck is run by the Transportation Security Administration. Travelers apply online, then visit an enrollment center for fingerprints and a background check. Approval comes with a Known Traveler Number.

The Known Traveler Number goes in each booking. When it is in the reservation, the boarding pass shows TSA PreCheck and the traveler uses the PreCheck lane at participating US airports.

It belongs to the traveler, not to the ticket, so it works in every cabin. Global Entry includes it.

On a business class trip

Before an early flight from Chicago, a traveler with TSA PreCheck passes security without unpacking a laptop, with time left for the lounge.

Related terms

Global Entry
A US Customs and Border Protection program that speeds up immigration and customs when returning to the US. It includes TSA PreCheck.
Fast track security
A separate, shorter security lane for premium passengers at many airports outside the US. In the US, TSA PreCheck is the usual faster lane.
Record locator (PNR)
The six-character code of a booking, also called a booking reference, confirmation code or PNR. You use it to manage the trip.

Every term in the glossary.