TSA Pre-Check Review: Is It Still Worth It in 2023?

You may have heard that there are now around 15 million TSA Pre-Check members, leading many to question whether or not TSA Pre-Check is still worth it. For perspective, over 222 million travelers went through TSA security in the U.S. last year alone. In other words, less than seven percent of U.S. travelers used TSA Pre-Check. However, there’s a lot more to answering the question of whether it is worth it than just how many people use it. Learn more about it, its benefits, pros and cons and how it compares to its competition in this TSA Pre-Check review. 

Pros and Cons of TSA Pre-Check

What is TSA Pre-Check? 

TSA Pre-Check is a program established by the Department of Homeland Security to simplify the security procedures for air travelers. By enrolling in TSA Pre-Check, individuals gain exclusive entry to specialized security screening lanes available at over 200 airports across the United States. These dedicated lines for TSA Pre-Check participants significantly reduce wait times, with most enrolled passengers completing the security process in less than five minutes.

To become a member, one must complete an application and undergo an evaluation to determine their classification as a low-risk traveler. Upon approval, a Known Traveller Number will be assigned. This unique identifier is essential as it enables the inclusion of a TSA Pre-Check indicator on your boarding pass when booking flights. This indicator grants you access to the dedicated TSA Pre-Check line at the airport, ensuring a smoother screening process.

What is the Difference Between TSA Pre-Check and CLEAR?

CLEAR is a private service certified by the Department of Homeland Security. Unlike TSA Pre-Check, which focuses on streamlining the entire security screening process, CLEAR aims to expedite the identification procedure. By utilizing biometric data such as fingerprints and iris scans, CLEAR verifies travelers’ identities swiftly. 

As a CLEAR member, you don’t have to wait in the regular line to show your ID to a TSA officer. Instead, you proceed to special kiosks that scan your biometrics and boarding pass. When your identity has been validated, a CLEAR representative leads you to the front of the screening queue and informs the TSA officer. You next proceed through the standard body and bag screening.

What is the Difference Between TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry?

Global Entry is a complementary program to TSA Pre-Check, offering distinct advantages. Unlike TSA Pre-Check, Global Entry provides expedited customs and immigration clearance for travelers returning to the United States from overseas, regardless of the airline they are flying with. By utilizing a self-service kiosk at immigration checkpoints and having your biometric data on record, you can swiftly complete the necessary procedures and proceed on your journey without delay.

Global Entry perfectly complements TSA Pre-Check by saving you valuable time upon arrival from an international flight, while TSA Pre-Check enhances your travel experience by expediting the departure process at U.S. airports. Together, these programs offer comprehensive time-saving benefits for both domestic and international travel.

How TSA Pre-Check Works 

Once you become a member of TSA Pre-Check, you will be assigned a unique Known Traveller Number (KTN). This number acts as your identifier and is directly associated with your TSA Pre-Check status. It remains valid for an impressive five-year period, providing you with long-term convenience. With your KTN, you can seamlessly book your flights through your preferred channels, whether online platforms or your trusted travel agency. This means you can continue to plan your travel arrangements as you normally would, without any additional hassle or complications.

When you arrive at the airport and approach the security checkpoint, be on the lookout for the dedicated TSA Pre-Check lanes. These lanes are specially designated for Pre-Check members, allowing them to bypass the regular security lines and enjoy a more efficient process. Here’s where the real benefits of TSA Pre-Check shine: you are not required to remove your shoes, belt, or light jacket during the screening process. 

Additionally, you can keep your laptop and approved liquids safely stored inside your bag, eliminating the need for separate handling. To get started, simply present your boarding pass and identification document to the TSA officer stationed at the entrance of the Pre-Check lane. They will swiftly verify your eligibility by checking your credentials, ensuring a smooth experience. Once cleared, you can proceed confidently through the security screening process, which is known for its speed and convenience.

TSA Pre-Check Features and What Sets It Apart

By offering various screening benefits at low cost, TSA Pre-Check sets itself apart from standard security procedures. While it stands as a beacon of convenience, it’s worth noting that some people might not be able to qualify for TSA Pre-Check, potentially limiting its availability for some travelers. However, for those who qualify, TSA Pre-Check provides the following features:

• Dedicated security line: One of the standout features of TSA Pre-Check is the availability of a separate security line specifically for Pre-Check members. This line is typically shorter and moves more quickly, allowing you to bypass the regular security queues and save valuable time.
• No need to remove shoes, belts, and light jackets: With TSA Pre-Check, you can keep your shoes, belts, and light jackets on during the screening process. This eliminates the need for removing and re-dressing these items, adding convenience and efficiency to your travel experience.
• Liquids and laptops can stay in your bag: Unlike the standard security screening process, TSA Pre-Check allows you to keep your approved liquids and laptops inside your carry-on bag. This means you don’t have to take them out separately for screening, streamlining the process and reducing the risk of items being misplaced or damaged.
• Fewer requirements for physical inspection: TSA Pre-Check members generally undergo a less extensive physical inspection compared to the standard screening. 
• Consistent experience at participating airports: TSA Pre-Check offers a consistent experience across participating airports in the United States. This means you can expect the same benefits and streamlined procedures regardless of the airport you are departing from or arriving at.
• Valid for five years: Once approved for TSA Pre-Check, your membership is valid for five years. This allows you to enjoy the benefits of expedited security screening over an extended period without the need for frequent renewals.

TSA Pre-Check Pricing 

When you submit your application, you will make a non-refundable payment of $78. That will cover you for five years, but remember: if your application isn’t accepted (which only happens if you’re found to be a high-risk traveler for some reason), you won’t get a refund. This is because the fee covers the administrative cost of conducting the background check.

Keep in mind that it’s possible to get TSA Pre-Check for free. For example, active military personnel and certain credit card holders are eligible for a free membership. Learn more about how to get TSA Pre-Check for free. 

TSA Pre-Check Alternatives & How They Compare

	TSA Pre-Check	CLEAR	Global Entry
Price Per Person	$78 for the first 5 years and then $70 to renew	$189 per year	$100 for 5 years
Price Per Family Member	Same as a regular fee for adult members	$60 per member	Not applicable
Are Minors Free With a Guardian?	✓	✓	X
Skip the Standard Security Line?	✓	✓	✓
Approx. Number of Locations in the U.S.	200+ airports	65+ airports	60+ airports
Approx. Number of Locations Abroad	0	0	20+ airports
Hassle-free TSA Clearance (e.g. no need to remove shoes)	✓	X	✓
Application Processing Time	3-5 days usually but it may take up to 60 days.	Instant	90
	–	Read our CLEAR Security review	Read our Global Entry review

TSA Pre-Check vs CLEAR

Like TSA Pre-Check, CLEAR is a private service certified by the Department of Homeland Security. It aims to streamline the identification process at airports using biometric data, specifically fingerprints and iris scans. CLEAR members can bypass the regular security lines and go through a separate CLEAR lane, where they are verified through their biometric data and escorted to the front of the security line. 

While CLEAR focuses on identification, it does not exempt members from the standard bag and body screening conducted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). CLEAR is available at selected airports and sports stadiums across the United States. Get the complete breakdown of TSA Pre-Check vs CLEAR.

TSA Pre-Check vs Global Entry 

Unlike TSA Pre-Check, Global Entry is geared toward international travel. It includes all the benefits of TSA Pre-Check but also provides expedited customs and immigration clearance when entering the United States from abroad. Global Entry members can use automated kiosks at participating airports to complete the customs declaration process, which significantly reduces wait times. Additionally, Global Entry members are eligible for TSA Pre-Check, so they can enjoy expedited security screening for domestic travel as well. 

Is TSA Pre-Check Right for Me?

Getting a TSA Pre-Check membership is a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers. But that doesn’t mean it’s right for every traveler. For example, while TSA Pre-Check is more affordable than CLEAR, its lines are a bit longer. And for the frequent international traveler, Global Entry might be the better option. 

TSA Pre-Check is best for you if:

• You travel frequently and often experience long lines and wait times at your nearby airport.
• You simply don’t have the patience to wait in security lines when traveling. 
• You value convenience. With TSA Pre-Check, you can leave your shoes, belt, and light jacket on during the screening process. You can also keep your laptop and approved liquids inside your bag. 
• You primarily fly within the U.S. as it is only available for domestic flights.

TSA Pre-Check may not be the best for you if:

• You rarely travel by air, the investment in TSA Pre-Check might not be worth it. 
• Your travel plans primarily involve international flights (consider Global Entry instead). 
• Your closest airport does not offer TSA Pre-Check security lanes.

Bottom Line

TSA Pre-Check is a valuable program for frequent travelers, particularly for domestic travelers who travel within the United States. The cost of TSA Pre-Check is also much more affordable than CLEAR and Global Entry making it the most suitable option for travelers who are on a budget. It is due to the reason that TSA Pre-Check allows people to enjoy all the perks for a reasonable fee than other programs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)