When it comes to air travel, one of the most stressful aspects is often the security screening process. Long lines, removing shoes and belts, and potentially intrusive searches can make for a frustrating experience. That’s why the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) introduced TSA PreCheck, a trusted traveler program designed to expedite the security process for low-risk travelers. But what about families? Can your loved ones join you in the TSA PreCheck lane, or do they need to apply separately?
The Basics Of TSA PreCheck
Before we dive into the specifics of family travel with TSA PreCheck, let’s cover the basics. TSA PreCheck is a voluntary program that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to undergo expedited security screening at participating U.S. airport security checkpoints. This means fewer hassles and shorter lines, making the entire travel experience more enjoyable. To participate, applicants must provide biographic and biometric information, undergo a background check, and pay an $85 application fee (valid for five years).
Can My Family Members Join Me In The TSA PreCheck Lane?
Now, let’s get to the main question: can your family members join you in the TSA PreCheck lane? The short answer is, it depends on their age and status.
Children 12 And Under
If you’re a parent or guardian with a TSA PreCheck membership, your children 12 and under can accompany you in the TSA PreCheck lane, even if they don’t have their own membership. This is a convenient perk, as it allows families to stay together during the security process, reducing stress and making travel more enjoyable.
To take advantage of this benefit, make sure to add your child’s information to your reservation or ticket, and ensure they’re traveling with you. When you arrive at the TSA PreCheck lane, simply let the agent know that you have children with you, and they’ll guide you through the process.
Children 13 And Over, And Spouses
Unfortunately, children 13 and over, as well as spouses, are not eligible to accompany you in the TSA PreCheck lane without their own membership. This is because the TSA requires all travelers 13 and older to undergo their own background check and application process to ensure they meet the program’s requirements.
If your child or spouse wants to participate in TSA PreCheck, they’ll need to apply separately, providing their own biographic and biometric information, and paying the $85 application fee. Once approved, they’ll receive their own Known Traveler Number (KTN), which can be added to their flight reservations to access TSA PreCheck lanes.
Adding Family Members To Your Reservation
To ensure a smooth security process for your family, make sure to add each member’s information to your flight reservation or ticket. This includes their name, date of birth, and Known Traveler Number (if applicable). This step helps the TSA identify eligible family members and streamline the security process.
Airline And Travel Provider Policies
Keep in mind that some airlines and travel providers may have specific policies or procedures for adding family members to reservations or tickets. It’s essential to check with your airline or travel provider to understand their requirements and ensure a seamless experience.
| Airline | Policy for Adding Family Members |
|---|---|
| American Airlines | Allows online addition of family members to reservations |
| Delta Air Lines | Requires family members to be added through the Delta website or mobile app |
| United Airlines | Allows family members to be added through the United website or mobile app, or at airport check-in |
Renewal And Membership Transfer
If you’re a current TSA PreCheck member, you may be wondering what happens when your membership expires or if you need to transfer your membership to a new family member.
Renewal
Renewing your TSA PreCheck membership is a straightforward process. Approximately six months before your membership expires, you’ll receive a notification from the TSA. Simply log in to your account, update any necessary information, and pay the $70 renewal fee (valid for another five years).
Membership Transfer
Unfortunately, TSA PreCheck memberships are non-transferrable. If you need to add a new family member or replace an existing member, each individual must apply separately, providing their own biographic and biometric information, and paying the $85 application fee.
Conclusion
While the TSA PreCheck program offers many benefits for families, it’s essential to understand the rules and requirements for accompanying family members in the expedited security lane. By following the guidelines outlined above, you can ensure a stress-free travel experience for your entire family.
Remember:
- Children 12 and under can accompany TSA PreCheck members in the expedited security lane.
- Children 13 and over, as well as spouses, must apply separately and obtain their own TSA PreCheck membership.
- Add each family member’s information to your flight reservation or ticket to ensure a smooth security process.
- Check with your airline or travel provider for specific policies on adding family members to reservations or tickets.
- Renew your TSA PreCheck membership every five years to maintain your trusted traveler status.
By streamlining the security process, TSA PreCheck can help make family travel more enjoyable and convenient. So why not take advantage of this valuable program and make your next family trip a stress-free success?
What Is TSA PreCheck And How Does It Work?
TSA PreCheck is a trusted traveler program operated by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that allows low-risk travelers to undergo expedited security screening at participating U.S. airport security checkpoints. TSA PreCheck is designed to provide a more efficient and convenient security screening process for travelers who have been vetted in advance.
To participate in TSA PreCheck, travelers must apply online and provide required biographic and biometric information, pay an application fee, and undergo a background check. Once approved, travelers will be issued a Known Traveler Number (KTN), which they can use to access TSA PreCheck security lines at participating airports.