Travel Glossary · Documents & Entry
TSA PreCheck
Definition
TSA PreCheck: TSA PreCheck is a US trusted traveler program giving approved, low-risk travelers expedited security lanes at participating airports, where laptops and liquids can usually stay in bags.
Once approved, you receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) to add to your airline reservations and frequent flyer profiles, and your boarding pass then shows a PreCheck indicator. The name on your booking must match your PreCheck record exactly, or the indicator may not appear. PreCheck lanes are available at most major US airports with participating airlines.
Enrollment involves an online application, a background check, and a brief in-person appointment for fingerprints. Membership lasts five years, and the fee varies slightly by enrollment provider, so check TSA’s website for current pricing. Global Entry includes PreCheck, so frequent international travelers often choose that instead.
For corporate travelers, the simplest win is storing every traveler’s KTN in their profile so it attaches to every booking automatically. Learn more in our TSA PreCheck guide.
Related terms
Go deeper
- Travel GuidesTSA PreCheck Guide: Cost, How to Apply, and Whether It’s Worth ItTSA PreCheck explained: how expedited screening works, 2026 enrollment costs, how to apply and renew, rules for kids, and when Global Entry is the better buy.
- CompareGlobal Entry vs. TSA PreCheck: Which Should You Get?Global Entry vs TSA PreCheck: costs as of 2026, what each speeds up, eligibility, kids, and how to apply, so you can choose the right trusted traveler program.
- Packing ListsBusiness Trip Packing ListA carry-on business trip packing list: wrinkle-resistant outfits, tech and chargers, travel documents, and the small essentials frequent travelers rely on.
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