I’ve been going through TSA pre-screening for years and have no regrets. It only costs $15 a year, and every time I fly and the security line gets shorter, I’m glad I signed up. The only real hassle was that he had to spend several hours of his day driving to the airport for the in-person interview. However, it turns out that this is not a necessary part of the process. In fact, some people can register for Precheck at various locations other than airports, including Staples stores.
Advantages of pre-checking
TSA Precheck is the simplest and cheapest of the airport security programs, but if you want to decide for yourself, here is a comparison. If you travel internationally frequently, you may need Global Entry instead. This is slightly more expensive and includes pre-check benefits.
There is another popular program called CLEAR, but it is more expensive and the lines have been getting longer lately. and You can’t even proceed to the Precheck lane unless you also pay the Precheck fee. The differences are:
- Without a security program, you would have to wait in (sometimes long) lines, go through security lanes, take off your shoes and jacket, and retrieve your fluid bags and laptop.
- CLEAR uses a biometric ID kiosk, takes you to the front of the line, and goes through the same security lane as above. CLEAR allows you to avoid waiting in TSA lines, but they may have their own lines.
- TSA Precheck allows you to wait in (usually short) lines and undergo a streamlined security process. You can keep your laptop and liquids in the bag while keeping your shoes and jacket on.
- If you have both CLEAR and Precheck, after going through the biometric ID kiosk, you will be taken to the front of the Precheck line for a streamlined screening. (You must pay for both subscriptions.)
Short pre-check lines are an advantage, but the streamlined screening really speeds up the time you get through security. You put your bag on the conveyor belt, go through the scanner, grab your bag, and you’re on your way. I never found the lines long enough that using the CLEAR kiosk made a difference, but this may vary by airport.
How to apply for TSA pre-screening without going to the airport (including at some Staples stores)
Companies like IDEMIA and TELOS operate TSA Precheck registration centers, many of which are located in more convenient locations than airports. TSA has a search tool here You can enter your zip code here to find a TSA Enrollment Center near you.
Some IDEMIA stores are located inside Staples stores; Search here to find Staples offering TSA pre-screening registration. However, these locations will still appear in TSA’s main search, so we recommend using the TSA site. (Unfortunately, you cannot register on the following site) every Staples, so be sure to check there is a registration center before you go. )
To apply for pre-check, fill out the form onlineand make an appointment at one of our registration centers at the airport, Staples, or a separate location. Expect to be fingerprinted and photographed, and be sure to fill out the form so your name will appear as it would on the ID you use to board the plane. (This is a word of caution for those who are inconsistent about whether to fill in their middle name or just their initial.) Fortunately, from now on, when it comes time to renew, he will be able to do so in five years’ time. I can. fully online.
