What do I need to bring to go through TSA PreCheck?

Navigating the TSA PreCheck Lane: What You Need to Know

The TSA PreCheck program offers expedited security screenings at US airports, allowing travelers to bypass the typical lines and get through airport security faster. But what exactly do you need to bring to make the most of this program?

The fundamental requirement is a valid photo ID. This is not just any ID, but a document that meets TSA’s specific criteria. A current driver’s license or a government-issued ID card, such as a passport or state-issued ID, will suffice. Crucially, the ID must have a clear, visible seal or logo, guaranteeing its authenticity. A faded, damaged, or otherwise unclear ID may not be accepted.

Beyond the ID, it’s important to understand that TSA PreCheck itself is not something you physically bring. It’s a credential you’ve applied for and been granted, which is associated with your identity. The security officers will have a database allowing them to verify your eligibility. Therefore, while you need your valid photo ID to confirm your identity, it’s your PreCheck enrollment that allows the expedited screening.

In summary, bringing a valid photo ID – a driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID with a clear seal or logo – is the only physical item required for TSA PreCheck screening. The PreCheck itself, which grants you the expedited service, is an electronic record of your enrollment, verified by the security officers.