The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) PreCheck program provides members with dedicated security lanes at over 200 U.S. airports, allowing them to keep shoes, belts, and light jackets on, and leave electronics and 3-1-1 liquids in their bags during screening. According to the TSA, approximately 99 percent of PreCheck passengers clear security in 10 minutes or less. While applying for PreCheck typically costs $85 for a five-year membership, there are several methods to obtain it for free or at a reduced cost through credit cards, travel loyalty programs, and other partnerships. This article details the available options based on verified information from official sources and reputable travel publications.
Understanding TSA PreCheck and Related Programs
TSA PreCheck is a trusted traveler program managed by the Transportation Security Administration. Members receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) to enter into airline reservations, which then displays the PreCheck indicator on their boarding pass. This enables access to expedited security lanes at participating airports. The standard application fee is $85, which covers a five-year membership. Enrollment requires an online application followed by an in-person appointment for identity verification and fingerprinting. Enrollment is facilitated by three authorized providers: CLEAR, IDEMIA, and Telos, offering over 1,300 convenient locations.
For context, other related expedited travel programs include Clear and Global Entry. Clear uses biometric identification to escort members to the front of security lines, but it is a separate service from TSA PreCheck, though they can be used together. Global Entry expedites customs clearance for travelers returning to the U.S. from abroad and includes TSA PreCheck benefits. The methods for obtaining these programs for free or at a discount often overlap, particularly with credit cards and loyalty programs.
Methods to Obtain TSA PreCheck for Free
Credit Card Statement Credits
The most common and straightforward way to get TSA PreCheck for free is by using a credit card that offers a statement credit to cover the application fee. As of May 2025, nearly 50 different credit cards provide this benefit as a cardholder perk. These cards range from no-annual-fee options to premium travel cards. The terms for using this benefit are generally consistent across eligible cards: the card issuer provides a statement credit for the TSA PreCheck application fee, typically up to $85, after the charge is posted to the account.
To utilize this method, applicants should first check if their current credit card offers this benefit. If not, they may consider applying for a card that does. The specific list of eligible cards is maintained by the TSA and can be found on the TSA website. It is important to note that credit card benefits can change, so verifying current terms before applying for PreCheck is essential.
Travel Loyalty Programs
Several hospitality and airline loyalty programs offer free TSA PreCheck membership to their members, either as a direct benefit or in exchange for points or miles. These programs can be a valuable way to offset the cost, especially for frequent travelers who already accumulate points.
- Orbitz Rewards: Platinum members receive a free TSA PreCheck membership every five years.
- Marriott Bonvoy: Members can redeem 25,000 points for an $85 TSA PreCheck application credit.
- IHG One Rewards: Members can redeem 30,000 points for an $85 TSA PreCheck application credit.
- United MileagePlus: Members can redeem 11,000 miles for a TSA PreCheck membership.
It is worth noting that the return on value when redeeming points or miles for PreCheck may be less than the typical valuation of these currencies according to some travel experts. However, for members with a surplus of points or miles, this can be an effective way to secure the benefit without an out-of-pocket cash expense.
Luxury Travel Memberships
Another option is through exclusive travel communities. According to the TSA, the luxury travel community ASmallWorld offers PreCheck for free to some of its members. ASmallWorld is described as a cross between a social networking site and a private members’ club, providing access to travel perks at hotel and airline partners. For eligible members, complimentary PreCheck membership is an additional benefit of club membership.
Options for Clear and Global Entry
While the focus is on TSA PreCheck, many of the same methods apply to obtaining Clear or Global Entry at a discount or for free.
Clear Discounts and Free Trials
Clear offers a biometric identity verification service that can be used in conjunction with TSA PreCheck. Several credit cards provide statement credits to cover the Clear membership fee, which is typically $199 per year. As of the provided data, cards offering this benefit include: * The Business Platinum Card from American Express * The Centurion Card from American Express * American Express® Green Card * Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card
Additionally, American Express cardmembers may be targeted with limited-time Amex Offers covering Clear costs. Travelers can also access a two-month free trial for Clear through a referral code, such as the one provided for TPG readers.
Clear also offers discounted rates for specific groups: * Family Plan: Up to three additional adults can be added to a primary membership for $125 per additional person, per year. * Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan: Members can enroll for a discounted rate of $199 per year and receive bonus miles (1,500 upon signup and an additional 1,250 annually for MVP Gold and higher status members). * United Credit Card Holders: Receive a discount on Clear membership. * General United MileagePlus Members: Can enroll for $199 per year.
Children under 18 can accompany a Clear member through the security process for free.
Bundled TSA PreCheck and Clear
Clear offers a bundled enrollment option for TSA PreCheck and Clear Plus. By applying for both programs through Clear, users pay a bundled rate of $209. Upon approval for both, Clear issues a $77.95 rebate. The TSA’s CLEAR provider page states that upon completion of both applications, CLEAR will issue a refund of $79.95, which is the full cost of TSA PreCheck. This makes the effective cost for the combined first year significantly lower than purchasing both separately.
Global Entry via Credit Cards
Many credit cards that offer TSA PreCheck credits also provide a statement credit for Global Entry, which costs $100 for five years. This is a common benefit on premium travel cards. Since Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits, this can be a more comprehensive option for international travelers.
The Enrollment Process
Regardless of the method used to cover the cost, the enrollment process for TSA PreCheck is standardized: 1. Online Application: Complete the initial application on the TSA website or through an enrollment provider’s site. This typically takes about 5 minutes. 2. In-Person Appointment: Schedule an appointment or walk in to an enrollment center (over 1,300 locations nationwide). During this visit, an agent will verify documents, take fingerprints and a photo, and collect payment if not covered by another method. The appointment usually takes about 10 minutes. 3. Receive KTN: Once approved, a Known Traveler Number (KTN) is issued. This number must be entered into airline reservations and travel profiles to ensure the PreCheck indicator appears on boarding passes.
Applicants should note that while the TSA provides the framework, enrollment is handled by third-party providers like CLEAR, IDEMIA, and Telos. Each provider may have slightly different online portals or appointment scheduling systems, but the core requirements are the same.
Important Considerations and Limitations
- Program Validity: TSA PreCheck membership is valid for five years. Credit card benefits that cover the fee are typically applicable once per membership period (every five years), though card terms should be verified.
- Eligibility: TSA PreCheck requires a background check and fingerprinting. Not all applicants are approved, though the vast majority of low-risk travelers are. The $85 fee is non-refundable if the application is denied.
- Source Reliability: The information presented is based on data from official TSA pages, reputable travel publications (Travel + Leisure, The Points Guy), and verified program terms. Credit card offers and loyalty program terms are subject to change; consumers should always verify current details with the card issuer or program before acting.
- No Guarantee of Availability: While the methods listed are current as of the provided data (May 2025), credit card benefits, loyalty program point requirements, and partnership terms can be updated or discontinued. There is no guarantee that a specific card or program will offer the benefit indefinitely.
Conclusion
Obtaining TSA PreCheck for free is a practical possibility for many U.S. travelers through credit card statement credits, travel loyalty program redemptions, or exclusive memberships. The most common and accessible method is using one of the nearly 50 credit cards that reimburse the $85 application fee. For those with points or miles, programs like Marriott Bonvoy, IHG One Rewards, Orbitz Rewards, and United MileagePlus offer redemption options. Luxury travel club ASmallWorld provides complimentary PreCheck to eligible members. For related services like Clear, select credit cards and airline partnerships offer discounts or statement credits, and a bundled enrollment with TSA PreCheck can reduce the first-year cost. Travelers should carefully review the terms of their credit cards and loyalty programs to determine the best path to securing these expedited travel benefits without an out-of-pocket expense.