Summer travel can be hectic: Think noisy families, large luggage, long security lines and air-conditioned planes. Fortunately, TSA PreCheck can help you avoid delays.
And now it’s $20 off.
This could be your best chance to sign up for five years of access to the TSA PreCheck program, which provides access to separate security lines that are often shorter and faster than usual. TSA PreCheck isn’t for everyone, but it’s popular among frequent flyers willing to pay the fees to save precious time at the airport.
The May promotion, available only to travelers 30 and under, drops the price from $76.75 to $56.75. With this special discount, TSA aims to increase registration among young people.
The three registry providers each offer a different amount of PreCheck status:
|
Provider |
New membership fees |
Discounted cost* |
Renewal costs |
|---|---|---|---|
|
DIEMIA |
$76.75 |
$56.75 |
$58.75 online, $66.75 in person |
|
SIMPLY |
$79.95 |
$59.95 |
$69.95 online, $79.95 in person |
|
Telos |
$85 |
$65 |
$69.95 online $58.75 in person |
*You must be 30 years of age or younger to be eligible.
In a press conference on Wednesday, Ha Nguyen McNeill, acting head of the TSA, celebrated the launch of the promotion and shared more details about the age focus.
“As young adults embark on new adventures — whether it’s a school trip, work or leisure — TSA PreCheck provides a quick and seamless airport security experience,” said McNeill. “With this special discount, we’re empowering the next generation of travelers to make TSA PreCheck a part of their journey.”
Enrolling in PreCheck involves several steps, including filling out an online form and registering in person at one of 1,300 locations. The program is “open to U.S. citizens, U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents,” according to the TSA website.
The whole process can be done quickly: Participants usually receive their Known Travel Number (KTN) and PreCheck benefits within three to five days.
In addition to shorter lines, passengers “can keep their electronics and 3-1-1 liquid in their bags and travel with light belts and jackets,” the FAQ explains.
The main benefit for many customers is the time it saves when the traditional security line is busy. The TSA says passengers rarely wait 10 minutes for PreCheck.
Don’t want to pay $56.75 (or more) to get through security checkpoints on time? We hear you.
A credit card with a PreCheck benefit can be another option – and there are many, though they usually carry an annual fee. For example, the $95 annual fee Capital One Venture Rewards card offers up to a $120 statement credit for PreCheck or Global Entry.
New Clear+ members can also get a PreCheck membership as part of a bundle deal for $209 annually.
