Airport Delays Persist: Can TSA PreCheck Help You Skip the Lines?

As long security queues continue to frustrate travelers at major U.S. airports, TSA PreCheck is emerging as a practical way to speed up the screening process and reduce waiting times.

The government-run programme allows approved passengers to use dedicated security lanes, where screening is typically faster and less restrictive. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), most PreCheck users complete the process in about 10 minutes.

Julian Kheel, CEO of flight search platform Points Path, said the service remains useful even amid the current surge in airport congestion.

“TSA PreCheck can still help you get through security faster despite the long lines,” he said, adding that it remains a valuable option for frequent travelers even after the current situation improves.

The pressure on airport security has been worsened by staffing shortages linked to an ongoing partial government shutdown. Hundreds of TSA officers have reportedly resigned, while many others have called in sick. In response, authorities have deployed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to assist at several airports.

How long does approval take?
Applying for TSA PreCheck involves completing an online form and attending a brief in-person appointment. While the process is straightforward, approval can take at least a week.

Kheel noted that travelers with immediate plans may not benefit in time. “If you’re flying tomorrow, it’s unlikely you’ll get approved that quickly. But if your trip is a week or more away, there’s a good chance,” he explained.

He also cautioned that some airports may temporarily suspend PreCheck lanes due to limited staffing.

How to apply
Travelers can apply through any of the three authorized providers—Clear, Idemia or Telos—by filling out a short online form. The next step is to schedule an appointment at an enrollment centre, which may be located at airports or retail outlets such as CVS, Staples or Office Depot.

During the appointment, applicants provide identification documents and biometric data, such as fingerprints. The process typically takes about 10 minutes. Fees vary by provider, ranging from roughly $77 to $85, while Clear charges about $80 for enrollment.

After approval, travelers receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN), usually within three to five days, although it can take longer. This number must be added to flight bookings to access PreCheck lanes.

Membership lasts five years, and some travel credit cards may cover the enrollment fee.

Other ways to save time
Beyond TSA PreCheck, travelers can further streamline their airport experience by enrolling in TSA’s Touchless ID programme, which uses facial recognition at select airports.

Another option is Clear, a private service that offers its own expedited lines for an annual fee of $209. It can be used alongside TSA PreCheck for even faster processing.

For international travelers, the Global Entry programme may be worth considering. Though more expensive and time-consuming to obtain, it includes TSA PreCheck benefits and speeds up re-entry into the United States through customs and immigration.

With airport delays showing little sign of easing, experts say these programs can make a noticeable difference for travelers looking to avoid long waits.