The Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) TSA Pre✓application program reached a new milestone with more than 1.5 million travelers enrolled, TSA announced.
TSA Pre✓ is an expedited screening program that began in October 2011 which enables low-risk travelers to enjoy a smart and efficient screening experience at more than 150 US airports. For TSA Pre✓ travelers, there is no need to remove shoes, 3-1-1 liquids, laptops, light outerwear or belts.
TSA Pre✓ opened its first application center in December 2013 and now has more than 330 application centers nationwide, including locations at 33 airports.
The TSA Pre✓ application program allows US citizens and lawful permanent residents to directly apply for TSA Pre✓. Once approved, travelers will receive a “Known Traveler Number” and will have the opportunity to utilize TSA Pre✓ lanes at select security checkpoints when flying on 12 participating carriers: Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue Airways, OneJet, Southwest Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, United Airlines, US Airways and Virgin America.
“Through our intelligence-driven, risk-based approach to aviation security we can adapt and stay ahead of evolving threats,” said TSA Administrator Peter Neffenger. “We are pleased to announce this milestone as growing the trusted traveler population allows us to focus on high-risk, unknown passengers.The popularity of TSA Pre✓ among travelers is evident in the robust enrollment rates we’ve experienced since the inception of the program.”
Travelers may also enroll in one of three trusted traveler programs offered by Customs and Border Protection (CBP): Global Entry, NEXUS or SENTRI. Members of these programs are eligible to participate in TSA Pre✓ and do not need to apply separately; once successfully enrolled in a CBP trusted traveler program, participants must utilize their “PASSID” as their Known Traveler Number.
Additionally, TSA said, through a recent partnership with MorphoTrust USA and H&R Block, TSA Pre✓ application center locations will initially expand from 330 to more than 400. These new application centers will be located throughout 27 states adding convenience for travelers who want to enroll in in the TSA Pre✓program.
“As always,” the agency stated, it “continues to incorporate random and unpredictable security measures both seen and unseen throughout the airport. All travelers will be screened, and no individual will be guaranteed expedited screening.”
To learn more about TSA Pre✓, visit tsa.gov/tsa-precheck. For more information about the four trusted traveler programs that offer TSA Pre✓ eligibility, visit dhs.gov/tt.
