TSA PreCheck’s Foundation Year
TSA PreCheck might ring a bell if you travel frequently. This is a program that offers a quicker airport security screening for pre-cleared travelers. But when was TSA PreCheck founded? Let’s journey through TSA PreCheck’s history and its various perks for travelers.
TSA PreCheck’s Emergence
TSA PreCheck made its official debut in October 2011. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which is under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, introduced this initiative to heighten security while making travel more convenient for safer travelers.
The Reason Behind TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck’s inception came from the increasing annoyance among travelers about the long airport security screening process. TSA realized that each traveler’s risk level varies and hence decided to start a program that focuses more resources on high-risk persons.
The introduction of TSA PreCheck helped TSA in simplifying the security screening for capable travelers. This not only cut down on wait times but also enabled security staff to narrow down on potential hazards more efficiently.
TSA PreCheck’s Advantages
TSA PreCheck offers multiple benefits to eligible travelers:
- Quick Screening: TSA PreCheck members get quick security lanes, usually faster and shorter queues. Which means, less time waiting, and more time unwinding before your flight.
- Leave Your Shoes and Jackets On: No need to remove shoes, jackets, or belts with TSA PreCheck. This hastens screening and enhances convenience.
- Keep Liquids and Laptops in Your Bag: Passengers can keep their liquids and laptops inside their bags when approved, cutting the need to take them out during checks. This eases the process further.
- You Can Wear Your Light Clothing: TSA PreCheck users are allowed to keep light clothes like scarves or sweaters on while screening happens. Easy and efficient!
- Enjoy Dedicated TSA PreCheck Lanes: TSA PreCheck means access to less crowded special lanes. These are for pre-approved passengers, ensuring quicker screening.
Signing Up for TSA PreCheck
Getting TSA PreCheck is a cinch. Here’s how:
- Fill Out Online Form: Go to the TSA PreCheck site, fill out an online form. It asks for your personal details like name, birth date, and residence address.
- Set Your Appointment: A review and approval of your form will prompt an appointment set up at a TSA PreCheck center. During this, fingerprints are taken and a background check is done.
- Submit the application fee: TSA PreCheck demands an $85 fee. You’re covered for five-years with this payment.
- Access TSA PreCheck perks: Once your application gets greenlit, they’ll send you a Known Traveler Number (KTN). Include this number in your flight bookings to activate TSA PreCheck perks for upcoming flights.
Wrap-Up
The foundation of TSA PreCheck dates back to October 2011. It’s designed to give easy and quick airport security checks for those deemed as low-risk travelers. You can appreciate its speedy checks, the convenience of not having to remove your shoes or jackets and the exclusive lanes it provides to cleared travelers. If flights are a regular part of your schedule, getting on board with TSA PreCheck can chip away at waiting time and give you a smoother journey.
