How to Get TSA PreCheck in 2024 (is it even worth the price?!)

[@Nathansmithphotography]

Great advice, but the better program that most Americans don’t know about is Global Entry, which if you do ANY international travel, saves you time coming back into the US, costs $100 for 5 years, but INCLUDES TSA PRECHECK! The background check is more extensive, and there are fewer airports for interviews, but the extra effort and small additional expense can be well worth it.

[@PortableProfessional]

I agree! Global entry is a great option when travelling internationally!

[@deandecoursey2334]

The only downside now is that there could be a 8-10 month wait for acceptance and then interval approval for Global Entry

[@henryc1000]

Is Global Entry and the Sentri Pass equivalent?

[@brannenb9336]

There are also more stringent qualifications for global entry. Not everyone who qualifies for TSA Precheck will qualify for global entry.

[@Nathansmithphotography]

@@brannenb9336 true, but if you travel internationally and qualify, the extra $15 is well worth it.

[@brannenb9336]

Combine TSA Precheck with carry on only and online checkin and you can fly through check in and arrival. I recently went through Atlanta Hartsfield checkin in less than 10 minutes from the front door to my departure gate, and that included taking the train to my departure concourse. I did not wait in a single line. Your advice is spot on.

[@PortableProfessional]

Thank you so much!

[@TheOriginalCryptoPimp]

Excellent advice. I live in Atlanta.

[@Omoroseangel]

Making the most out of your travel time makes sense to me! Good advise. I dispise the wait for check in bags.

[@Mr.Eeeeeeeee]

I got my number just yesterday. We fly about 3 times a year and the time that this will save over the next 5 yrs will be well worth it. Keep in mind that the line for the in person meeting takes a long time so schedule the first one available in the day around 9. My wife said even the TSA agents were nicer in the security line.

[@PortableProfessional]

That is awesome!

[@dulcielong4679]

I just got my TSA Precheck approval yesterday! I have both TSA Precheck and Clear because initially Clear was easier to get and my United membership discounted the price. Megan is right, it only took about 7-10 minutes at the interview location to complete my registration and I got my approval the next day via email. I'm so excited because I fly at least 4 times a year. Very worth it I think

[@PortableProfessional]

Glad to hear the process was quick and easy for you. Happy travels!

[@Jabber_Wock]

An important gotcha with TSA-Pre: it’s not automatically added to your ticket. You have to add your KTN (Known Traveler Number) that TSA-Pre issues you, to your airline profile account or at the time you buy your ticket. Otherwise you’ll get TSA-Pre on a random lottery basis just like any other passenger, i.e. likely not. It’s happened to me.

[@KristiBranstetter]

If you need to add it to your ticket, you can go to the counter before you go thru security. Just give the agent your number.

[@0xggbrnr]

She mentioned that in the video.

[@chrislefever871]

TSA Precheck Is a time saver. At my home airport I have never had a wait. Love it...

[@PortableProfessional]

Good to hear, Chris!

[@ParanormalEncyclopedia]

I found out something very cool while looking into TSA pre check for an upcoming flight: I don't need to pay for it. Fun fact that I didn't know: if you qualify for Pecheck already (meaning US citizen all that) and have a TWIC card (I do because i"m a security guard) you can put the number from your TWIC card in when you get your tickets and go through the line without paying the extra fee and going through everything else. Was such a nice bonus to making what's going to be a long flight less stressful.

[@wwilliams2177]

I just got TSA pre check. It was so easy and fast, I received approval within 2days..🎉

[@PortableProfessional]

Wow, that was fast!

[@abigailgerlach5443]

TSA pre-check is worth it to me because I have arthritis and getting shoes on and off is painful. Also, unpacking my carry-on and packing it up again when you get older slows down the line TSA wants to move through quickly. Pre-check saves me and TSA in the short term and reduces stress.

[@tdadp]

I feel your pain & I with you it’s so much easier

[@j.g.3351]

I have Global Entry so my boarding pass was flagged as being Precheck approved for my trip to Hawaii two weeks ago from Dulles airport. It was great to go thru the Precheck line without having to take off shoes or unload electronics from my backpack. I had forgotten to take off my Apple watch but was able to walk thru the metal detector without setting off alarm. In the past I would go 3 hours early to the airport, but this time I arrived 1 hour before departure & just breezed right thru. Worth every penny to obtain Global Entry/Precheck

[@PortableProfessional]

Great to hear!

[@codywy5579]

I am in the program and highly recommend it... now want it expanded outside of US.

[@PortableProfessional]

Good to hear!

[@MultiShahina]

Global Entry, which includes pre-check is 9-10 months delayed on preliminary approval then you still have to go through the in person interview and that can be booked up for months and months. I will say it was worth the wait and $100 usd to me.

[@PortableProfessional]

Some things are worth waiting for! Hopefully the wait time improves.

[@MultiShahina]

I was approved and interviewed in 2 months and my husband - sent in at the same time - he’s still waiting?? Definitely worth it. Cheers!!

[@Raichle9]

On our recent trip to San Diego, we learned the value of TSA Pre-Check. My sister has it, I don’t. She was able to quickly get through (~5 minutes). I was in regular TSA for about 20 minutes. I Don’t travel as much anymore, so I don’t know if I’ll ever get TSA Pre-Check. But I can see the benefits

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks for watching! Great to have you on the channel!

[@gruncletim]

I've benefited from TSA Precheck numerous times, and highly recommend it. On the off chance that "TSA Precheck" isn't noted on my boarding pass, I carry the acceptance letter from the TSA so I can show it to the ticket agent and get the designation added.

[@leeannkleine6120]

I have had TSA pre-check since 2019. It is currently set to expire in 2024. I recently renewed my passport, and once it arrived; I began the process for Global Entry. The conditional approval only took 6 days, but the in person interview wasn't available until 8/24. Since I currently don't have any international trips planned until November, I went ahead and scheduled. If any last minute trips come up internationally, I can interview upon arrival at the airport. The extra money to have Global Entry over TSA Pre-check ($23 USD) seemed more than worth it to me. Being able to skip even 1 standard security line was well worth the investment to me.

[@PortableProfessional]

I agree. Global entry is great for international travel!

[@CO84trucker]

I've got Pre✅️ and it's nice not having to go through that body scanner. Just make sure your clothing doesn't have any buttons or rivets that'll trip the metal detector thus requiring secondary screening!

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks for watching!

[@renee498]

I have had TSA Pre-Check now long enough to have had to renew it this year. It initially cost me $85.00 for 5 years which was extended one year due to COVID. My renewal fee was $70.00 for 5 years and I was able to fully renew online. If you are on the fence about getting it, let me say it is more than worth the cost if you fly at least twice a year with in the US like I do.

[@PortableProfessional]

Good to hear you can renew online. Happy travels!

[@itsnotme07]

Funny thing here. My Global Entry status was expiring this year. When I went to renew, the site suggested I only go with TSA Precheck and save the $15 for Global Entry, because I did not travel internationally during the last 5 years. To me, it's not about if, but when. I will travel internationally from the US again, probably within a year or so. Point is, TSA Precheck comes with Global Entry, and just makes things easier. $15 extra is well worth it for Global Entry.

[@PortableProfessional]

I agree! Even when it's just for that one flight.

[@christy-lynnwhite9599]

PDA - Four of us went for TSA Precheck interview; the girls got their numbers within 2 days. Because the Men had Security Clearance for their jobs they had to get escalated to someone with more 'clout' to screen them so it took them 3 1/2 weeks (in Mid March). Plan accordingly.

[@PortableProfessional]

Good to know! Thanks for sharing that!

[@helenapolizzotti1901]

My husband and I have Global Entry which includes TSA Pre check. So we’ll worth it. My husband and I do quite a bit of traveling since our children are now married and on their own and we recently retired.

[@PortableProfessional]

Enjoy your travels!

[@labtechsuperstar]

I'm a fellow Canadian. I have had some trips to the US and noticed on my boarding pass that I was given TSA Precheck. That was for the return trip home. I didn't pay extra, I didn't actively ask for it, I just got it. It was nice.

[@PortableProfessional]

Interesting! Do you have Nexus because that includes TSA PreCheck.

[@labtechsuperstar]

@@PortableProfessional No. I don’t have Nexus. It was a lucky thing.

[@smileyelle1]

How’s that even possible? 😏

[@labtechsuperstar]

@@smileyelle1 I don't know...all I do know is that it showed up on my boarding pass. No extra cost, nothing. I just accepted it as a nice little gift.

[@luckyduckcanuck]

@@labtechsuperstar I've had that happen to me as well. I thought perhaps it was because I was travelling solo with a mobility scooter. But maybe it is just a random thing they do?

[@dtropea2063]

I have Global Entry which include TSA pre check. Luckily I am reimbursed for the cost through my credit card. Even if I wasn’t reimbursed I would have it - well worth the money.

[@rjentz]

Definitely global entry, I use to have TSA precheck and it was $85.00 for 5 years. Global entry $100.00 for 5 years. Returning to USA is way faster through customs and you still have a KTN.

[@PortableProfessional]

Sounds good as both are great to have!

[@harrisoakley711]

I love the TSA pre-check. My credit card paid for the membership fees. It is kind of free for me I have never spent more than 5 mins waiting security line.

[@PortableProfessional]

Great to hear! Happy travels!

[@dkod19]

Megan, you ought to do a comparison video on TSA Pre vs Global Entry vs Nexus vs Clear Entry (I know there are more). I just started the Global Entry process, as I plan more international travel, and for US citizens, it includes TSA Pre. So do most of the others, I believe.

[@PortableProfessional]

You are a mind reader, Denis. Been thinking about that too!

[@sweetoldbuzzard6087]

Isn't Nexus the Canadian TSA? I got interviewed by a Royal Canadian Mounted Police Officer during my application. I’m an American resident.

[@georgeyankov7289]

Megan, you actually are eligible for TSA PreCheck as a Canadian. You will need to get NEXUS membership. See www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/tsa-precheck for confirmation. The program costs only $50 CAD for 5 years. The catch is a long wait and limited enrollment centers.

[@michaelcannon128]

I Have TSA Pre Check.I Love It. I Got It In 2019.❤️😃❤️

[@5mommy4ever]

I have TSA precheck! Its awesome. It was quick and easy to get.

[@PortableProfessional]

Great to hear!

[@latinkeys1]

Thanks!

[@aminor7476]

I am glad you included that it is only for US citizens and legal residences and only at US airports, because my wife is a foreign national and is not eligible. So, when we travel through US airports, we go together without the Pre-Check. ☺

[@PortableProfessional]

Certainly a benefit to have but like you it does not stop me from travelling. Thanks for watching!

[@yaowsers77]

I just got it a couple of months ago! Very excited to use it next year.

[@PortableProfessional]

That's great! Happy travels!

[@KristiBranstetter]

I have TSA PreCheck. It is $78 for five years. It took me about 27 hours to be approved. It can take a few weeks to get your appointment.

[@PortableProfessional]

That's great! Happy travels, Kristi!

[@dawnhayman177]

We have TSA PreCheck. It is so worth it

[@alannemeth3293]

Yes easy you call for appointments, the place was close, go and 15 to 20 min. Done.

[@PortableProfessional]

That's great, Alan!

[@zoepetra]

The travel queen has posted! (Also first) :)

[@PortableProfessional]

Hope you enjoyed it!

[@PacView534]

While I do not travel very often, I am seriously considering getting TSA Pre-Check. Thank you for the information.

[@PortableProfessional]

My pleasure! Safe travels!

[@PacView534]

I did get Pre-Check. It came in just a couple of days.

[@kickingChicken]

Just got my KTN. The interview took 5 to 10 min, and i had my number in 4 days. I usually travel 2 times a year, but i fly out of ATL and LAX, so the $78 should be well worth it.🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲

[@WSen]

If you want to get pre✅ you can apply for nexus and you'll get precheck included as well. ❗ in order to get precheck on a boarding pass you need to add your KTN number in the reservation or at check-in (or airline account), it'll NOT appear automatically ❗ BTW I applied for global entry, got conditionally approved in less then 2 days then I looked out for appointment cancellations I found one in no time (in NYC), the whole process took less then 2 weeks total!

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks for sharing that! I hear some have been waiting months for an appointment!

[@WSen]

​@@PortableProfessional Is was in fact booked for a couple of months out, but there's cancellations all the time (there's even a few services that will notify you when a cancellation opens up like TTPTracker or Appointment Scanner)

[@deltaxsingh]

You are eligible for TSA PreCheck as a Canadian through the Nexus program. It's also even cheaper than the TSA PreCheck program LOL

[@lesliegallagher2682]

I filled out paperwork online and arrived at my appointment only to find out that my birthcertificate (the origninal 2' x 3" official copy) is no longer accepted. I had to go get the long form at my local office. Also, remember that you will also need a marriage license. I haven't gone back yet for my 2nd appointment. Hopefully it will be speedy.

[@PortableProfessional]

That's frustrating! Hope all goes well from here.

[@w.alan.21]

I just completed my TSAPC app. at the airport. Just be aware that they might try to pressure you to buy the more expensive CLEAR option even if you don't want or need it.

[@tammypearson4500]

Grateful we have TSA precheck! Truly saves time in many airports. Could you give us information about Global Entry? Thanks for your informative videos, Megan.

[@PortableProfessional]

You're welcome! I'm working on that Global Entry video!

[@tammypearson4500]

@@PortableProfessional yay! You're amazing 👏

[@kenbrien4978]

I have a NEXUS card which seems to work similarly in Canada.

[@tessat338]

My spouse has TSA-precheck as a perquisite of his employment. All of our passports expired during the pandemic so I plan to get Global Entry when I get my passport renewed.

[@raisin21]

Thank you for an interesting and informative video 👏

[@PortableProfessional]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Folgers1175]

I’m definitely interested in getting it.

[@travel.life.dreams]

Will be applying tomorrow. Going to upgrade to global entry next year. I need to get a new passport first

[@PortableProfessional]

Best of luck!

[@LonelySparta]

Does tsa check mobile phones like images contacts etc.. (not talking about the precheck just the normal tsa)

[@u_t_d_s_h-1_a]

Their was time TSA hadn't, but now---they have to deal with increasingly complex forms of courage by those trying to create financial importance for themselves through stupefacient crossings and so have closed their eyes to both pity ir plights of passengers in using tacts of hasslesome delays for all---at check points -- which consequentially makes a tsa precheck a prerequisite for vacationers seeking eventless tripping.

[@tdadp]

If you fly more than three times a year it’s worth it look at this way $15,60 a year not to have to wait In the long line

[@dorisjung4365]

I’ve had global entry for at least 3 years. The last time I flew domestically, I did not get TSA pre check on my boarding pass. I understand even though you have the service, it’s not always guaranteed. Happened to my husband and I twice. 😢

[@ganymedes62]

On my flights from Amsterdam to Tampa, with a layover in Atlanta, I had TSA-Pre on both my boarding passes (I have Global Entry, which includes TSA-Pre). However, when I printed my boarding passes for the flights back, it wasn't on them. When I dropped off my suitcase in Tampa, I pointed it out to the agent and she printed out two new boarding passes for me with the TSA-Pre on it.

[@brentdavidson4430]

I'm a bit confused. If you're a Canadian and have a Nexus card I'm pretty sure you get TSA Pre Check automatically? It's always been on my boarding passes.

[@PortableProfessional]

That is true! The only way for Canadians to have TSA PreCheck is to have Nexus. Canadians cannot apply for TSA PreCheck.

[@leslieannehill6880]

Hi. Fun channel and very useful--thank you. I applied for this card and it took me over a year! I went with my husband through a TSA pre-check line recently for only the second time, ever. His ticket said pre-check on it, mine did not tho I told the cruise line that both of us had pre-check. I actually have Global Entry (which is supposed to include pre-check, right?) So we wait in the huge line, get to the front, the guy won't let me pass, but lets my husband (he is a gov't employee). TSA guy tells me I have to go back to the ticket counter and get one that says pre-check--he is holding my Global card in his hand! So I have to march with my bags across the terminal to the desk, wait in another long line for the airline to print those two words on another ticket. Then I wait in the long line again. The lady at TSA now looks at my card, not at all at my ticket saying, "I don't need that. Keep your ticket. You are good to go, ma'am." Now what is up with this? Somebody was having a bad day besides me?

[@PortableProfessional]

That sounds like a terribly frustrating start to a trip! Great to have you on the channel.

[@Omoroseangel]

🤔good question

[@gettingslim186]

I saw some folks have this and they still ended up in same line like us

[@PortableProfessional]

That may because not all US airports and airlines have TSA precheck in place. Thanks for watching!

[@PraveenSrJ01]

Just subscribed to your channel 😊. Thank you 🙏

[@PortableProfessional]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@letterbox203]

The precheck approval is advertised as a benefit but can be confusing with all the rules because it makes you think you are speeding things up but then you find out something you are carrying is disqualified so now you are back in the regular line and feel that preapproval check you got was a hoax.

[@kevincollins2299]

Your channel is great. Can you do a little bit more robust look at the various Trusted Traveller Program from a Canadian view. I recently got my Nexus card but need to know what program to get next for world travel through the US. Thank you in advance.

[@metalsloth7387]

Great vid , thank you for the info on the pre✓ . I am travelling in June and have already purchased my tix , does it get automatically added when you check in online or do you need to go to the counter to get a new boarding pass ? Will i be able to use it only on future flights that i have not planned yet in those 5years of eligibilty or will it become active for myself upon approval for this upcoming trip ? Sorry if this seems like a dumb question but I really don't know . Thank you for your time and knowledge .

[@annlavine3576]

I do not have it but planto get it for a trip to disneyworld

[@PortableProfessional]

Sounds good! Enjoy that trip to Disneyworld!

[@TheEstevenw]

NEXUS works for Canada, the USA, and Mexico. It isn't hard to get if you don't have a criminal record.

[@robertdeschepper4346]

Hi Megan 👋. I recently obtained PreCheck and I usually fly out of Los Angeles International (LAX). I discovered that PreCheck isn’t airport specific, but is airline specific. On my flight from LAX to Amsterdam, I couldn’t use PreCheck because my airline, Aer Lingus, doesn’t use PreCheck. There’s no place to add your Known Traveler Number (KTN) on their tickets. That was disappointing. ☹️

[@PortableProfessional]

True! Not all airlines participate in it and not all airports offer it!

[@sonyreviewedit7687]

Ayyyy good video well explaned

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks! Glad you think so!

[@marshallrichmond4909]

I'm Canadian. I have NEXUS. It gives TSA PRE.

[@PortableProfessional]

As a Canadian, Nexus is great! Enjoy the benefits!

[@marshallrichmond4909]

@@PortableProfessional I love it! I do sometimes feel guilty passing long lines. But I deal with it. hehehe

[@ceuser3555]

@@marshallrichmond4909 it’s not free so better get your money’s worth.

[@carefulconsumer8682]

If you have TSA-precheck now can you then also get Global Entry and add that on? Thank you.

[@jaimegutierrez5520]

I had the TSA Pre check and I only use it once because is close most of the time

[@PortableProfessional]

That certainly isn't very helpful!

[@giovannialzetta5833]

Hi, do you know if there can be any problem if I bring with me in my check laggage 3 1/16 scale Tank models without battery's? Thank you.

[@slot230]

But as canadian you can acsess TSA pre check if you have Nexus, I believe, please confirm!!

[@jeffreywagner5234]

How do I know when it expires? Can’t find when I first got it……

[@toddkight7643]

Look for typed letters & numbers around the edge, which is where all these sort of sensitive data reside. 😊😁😁😁

[@KcRace]

Will you be covering the other programs like Global Entry, Sentri, and Nexus? I'm a Canadian and I recently finished my interview for Nexus and I'm patiently waiting for my card to come in the mail. Cannot wait to use this Nexus status at Pearson airport next month!!!!

[@PortableProfessional]

I am looking into that! Happy travels!

[@God.Almighty]

as the word spreads and we all join these various traveler programs it may end up being faster just to use the normal lines 😁

[@carlossaquicchan7166]

Hi Megan. My 5 year old sister and I are going to Guatemala in July. What is the process for TSA precheck for my 5 year old sister, I don't want her to wait in long regular security line and have join with me on TSA Precheck?

[@MsDarouny]

Do we need to get the Global check before purchasing the flight ticket?

[@779577]

I applied for a TWIC card and was told this was included. Do I still need to make an appointment??

[@mikeleslie5031]

I plan on going overseas at the most 3 times in the next five years(vacation), is it worth it to get global entry? I will be paying for it since the CC's I do have don't pay for it.

[@PortableProfessional]

It can certainly save time but I probably would not for only 3 trips. However, there are those who feel it's worth it for just one trip. Tough decision!

[@adamjosephyoungdokim7667]

Either Global entry or NEXUS is always much a better deal than TSA pre check on its own! Btw all of em are worth considering 😂^^

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks for watching, Adam!

[@adamjosephyoungdokim7667]

@@PortableProfessional u betcha ! And thx for all of ur hard works putting up the videos 😀 looking forward to connecting with ur contents as I love the insights ^^

[@kellyr4479]

How long did take everyone to get an interview for global entry? I submitted an application for global entry back in November and still haven’t had one

[@PortableProfessional]

That is quite a long wait! Hope you hear from them soon!

[@toddkight7643]

If you don't wait going through Security, then you will be waiting at the gate. Doesn't eliminate waiting, it just changes where the waiting is!😂 I have a theory that nobody really views or responds to Comments this hidden within the pile--prove me wrong 🎉🎉🥳🥳🎉🎉

[@PortableProfessional]

Hope you enjoyed the video, Todd!

[@jackcarraway4707]

If you are military, put your DOD ID as your Known Traveler number; you get Precheck automatically.

[@PortableProfessional]

Interesting and helpful info. Thanks for sharing!

[@jamesf791]

CLEAR is not worth it. First you have to wait for the employee if they are even at that airport, since it's not available at all. Then you have wait for your IRIS scan, oh and you have to show your ID now since CLEAR employees screwed over the public which allowed people who had boarding passes found in the garbage to go right through. Global Entry is worth it, even if you fly internationally once a month. The lines coming back to the states can be really long, and this way you do a quick scan, no one to help you and you are done, easy. Very easy when you come off a 10 hour flight for example and you have another flight to catch. Oh and if you are dating someone and they have Global Entry, you know they don't have a criminal history, so you will feel more secure dating that one.

[@coqbcmichelle]

I received my very first Nexus card right before the pandemic. I have yet to use it but we'll be doing so next. I know that if you cross a land order are you holding up to the little camera. I am inquiring about what benefits or how you use it at the airport? Are there different ways to use it at a Canadian airport heading to the U.S as well as at a U.S. airport heading back to Canada?

[@kenbrien4978]

At a Canadian airport, you can go through a shorter security line. Also, when you return to Canada, you can visit a kiosk instead of lining up to see a Customs officer.

[@Rosanna.989]

I wish us in the Caribbean could have used this :-(

[@PortableProfessional]

That would be nice. Thanks for watching!

[@ungata101]

I got this because I’m moving

[@renferal5290]

Sadly for me, the closest place I would be able to go in person, is way too far away.

[@PortableProfessional]

That is unfortunate! Hopefully the program will continue to expand and there will be a location closer to you soon.

[@mr.alonzofairley5476]

it's worth it; in order to make going through the airport a breeze....

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks for watching!

[@froglady1169]

78.00 for 5 yrs worth it everyday

[@sugarbear1225]

👍🏾

[@JosephIrvin-pm4cr]

What a money maker

[@Rckstrroma5]

Pass the headaches