How Do I Apply For A Known Traveler Number? Applying for a Known Traveler Number (KTN) can significantly enhance your travel experience, and TRAVELS.EDU.VN is here to guide you through the process. A KTN allows you to enjoy expedited security screening through programs like TSA PreCheck, making your airport journeys smoother and more predictable. Obtaining a KTN involves a straightforward application process, offering convenience and efficiency for frequent travelers. This guide will explain the application steps, required documentation, and benefits, including TSA enrollment, trusted traveler programs, and expedited screening.
1. Understanding the Known Traveler Number (KTN)
A Known Traveler Number (KTN) is a unique identifier assigned to individuals who have been approved for trusted traveler programs. These programs, such as TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, provide expedited security screening at airports. The KTN is essential for accessing these benefits. Understanding what a KTN is and how it works is the first step to enjoying hassle-free travel.
1.1. What is a Known Traveler Number?
A Known Traveler Number (KTN) is a nine-digit number issued by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) or Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to individuals who have been vetted and approved for trusted traveler programs. This number verifies that you are a low-risk traveler, allowing you to use expedited security lanes at airports.
1.2. Who Needs a KTN?
A KTN is beneficial for frequent flyers and anyone who wants to reduce their time spent in airport security lines. If you regularly travel by air, especially within the United States, having a KTN through TSA PreCheck can save you significant time and stress.
1.3. Programs That Provide a KTN
Several programs provide a KTN, each with its own eligibility requirements and benefits:
- TSA PreCheck: This program allows U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and lawful permanent residents to enjoy expedited screening at over 200 U.S. airports.
- Global Entry: This program is ideal for international travelers, providing expedited customs and immigration clearance upon arrival in the United States. Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits.
- SENTRI (Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection): This program is designed for frequent travelers crossing the U.S.-Mexico border. SENTRI includes TSA PreCheck benefits.
- NEXUS: This program is for travelers crossing the U.S.-Canada border. NEXUS also includes TSA PreCheck benefits.
2. Benefits of Having a Known Traveler Number
Having a Known Traveler Number offers numerous benefits, making air travel more convenient and efficient. From shorter security lines to a more predictable screening process, the advantages are clear. Let’s delve into the specific perks that a KTN provides.
2.1. Expedited Security Screening
The primary benefit of a KTN is access to expedited security lanes at the airport. TSA PreCheck lanes typically have shorter wait times, allowing you to move through security more quickly than in standard lanes.
2.2. No Need to Remove Certain Items
In TSA PreCheck lanes, you are not required to remove:
- Shoes
- Belts
- Liquids (3-1-1 compliant bag)
- Light jackets
- Laptops from bags
This simplifies the screening process and reduces the hassle of unpacking and repacking your belongings.
2.3. Predictable Travel Experience
A KTN provides a more predictable travel experience. Because you are pre-approved as a low-risk traveler, you are less likely to be subjected to additional screening or random checks.
2.4. Time-Saving Convenience
The time saved by using TSA PreCheck can be significant, especially for frequent travelers. According to TSA data, TSA PreCheck passengers wait less than 5 minutes on average. This can make a big difference when you’re rushing to catch a flight.
TSA PreCheck Boarding Pass Example
2.5. Enhanced Travel Confidence
Traveling with a KTN can boost your confidence. Knowing you can navigate airport security more efficiently reduces travel-related stress and allows you to focus on enjoying your trip.
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a KTN via TSA PreCheck
Applying for a Known Traveler Number through TSA PreCheck is a straightforward process. This section provides a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you through the application, ensuring you understand each requirement and can complete it efficiently.
3.1. Eligibility Requirements
Before you begin the application process, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for TSA PreCheck. Generally, U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and lawful permanent residents are eligible. However, certain criminal convictions and violations of transportation security regulations may disqualify you.
3.2. Pre-Enrollment Online
- Visit the TSA PreCheck Website: Go to tsa.gov/precheck to start your application.
- Complete the Online Application: Fill out the application form with accurate information. You’ll need to provide your name, date of birth, address, and other personal details.
- Choose an Enrollment Center: Select an enrollment center near you. There are over 400 locations nationwide, including many airport locations. You can find a location here.
- Schedule an Appointment (Optional): While walk-ins are accepted at some locations, scheduling an appointment can save you time.
3.3. In-Person Enrollment
- Visit the Enrollment Center: Go to the enrollment center you selected, bringing the required identification documents.
- Provide Documentation: Present your original or certified copies of identity and citizenship status documentation. See Section 5 for a detailed list of acceptable documents.
- Fingerprinting: You will be fingerprinted during the enrollment process. This is used for background checks.
- Pay the Fee: Pay the non-refundable $85 fee. This covers the cost of background checks. You can pay with a credit card, debit card, money order, or certified check.
3.4. Background Check and Approval
- Background Check: The TSA will conduct a background check to ensure you meet the security requirements.
- Approval Notification: Most applicants receive their KTN in 3-5 days, though some applications can take up to 60 days. You will receive an email or phone notification with instructions on retrieving your KTN online. You can also check your application status online.
3.5. Adding Your KTN to Airline Reservations
- Update Airline Profiles: Add your KTN to each participating airline profile. This ensures that your KTN is automatically included in your reservations.
- Provide KTN When Booking: When making air travel reservations, provide your KTN. The name used when applying for TSA PreCheck must match the name used when booking travel.
4. Applying for Global Entry and Other Trusted Traveler Programs
While TSA PreCheck is a popular option, Global Entry and other trusted traveler programs offer additional benefits, especially for international travelers. This section outlines the application process for these programs and highlights their unique advantages.
4.1. Global Entry
Global Entry provides expedited customs and immigration clearance upon arrival in the United States and includes TSA PreCheck benefits.
- Eligibility: U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, and citizens of certain other countries are eligible.
- Application:
- Create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account on the DHS website.
- Complete the online application and pay the non-refundable $100 fee.
- If conditionally approved, you will be scheduled for an interview at a Global Entry enrollment center.
- Interview: Attend the interview, bringing your passport and other required documents.
- Approval: If approved, you will receive your Global Entry card and KTN.
4.2. SENTRI
SENTRI is designed for frequent travelers crossing the U.S.-Mexico border and includes TSA PreCheck benefits.
- Eligibility: U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, and Mexican citizens are eligible.
- Application:
- Create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account on the DHS website.
- Complete the online application and pay the non-refundable $122.25 fee.
- If conditionally approved, you will be scheduled for an interview at a SENTRI enrollment center.
- Interview: Attend the interview, bringing your passport and other required documents.
- Approval: If approved, you will receive your SENTRI card and KTN.
4.3. NEXUS
NEXUS is for travelers crossing the U.S.-Canada border and also includes TSA PreCheck benefits.
- Eligibility: U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, Canadian citizens, and Canadian permanent residents are eligible.
- Application:
- Create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account on the DHS website.
- Complete the online application and pay the non-refundable $50 fee.
- If conditionally approved, you will be scheduled for an interview at a NEXUS enrollment center.
- Interview: Attend the interview, which may be conducted by both U.S. and Canadian officials, bringing your passport and other required documents.
- Approval: If approved, you will receive your NEXUS card and KTN.
5. Required Identification Documentation for TSA PreCheck
Having the correct identification documentation is crucial when applying for TSA PreCheck. This section details the specific documents you need to bring to your enrollment center to ensure a smooth application process.
5.1. U.S. Citizens, U.S. Nationals, or Lawful Permanent Residents
You must provide an original or certified copy of identity/citizenship status documentation during the application process, and the names on all documents must match exactly with the name provided on the application. If you have legally changed your name, you must provide an original or certified name change document (such as marriage certificates and divorce decrees) in addition to the required documentation.
Please bring one of the documents in List A to an application center.
If you do not have a document from List A, please see List B documents.
5.2. List A Documents
- Unexpired U.S. Passport (book or card)
- Unexpired Enhanced Tribal Card (ETC)
- Unexpired Free and Secure Trade (FAST) Card
- Unexpired U.S. Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or Unexpired Enhanced Identification Card (EID)
- Permanent Resident Card (I-551) often referred to as a “Green Card”
- Unexpired Foreign Passport AND immigrant visa with I-551 annotation of “Upon Endorsement Serves as Temporary I-551 Evidencing Permanent Residence of 1 Year”
- Unexpired Re-entry Permit (I-327)
*An original or certified copy of a document must be issued by a Federal, State, Tribal, county, municipal authority, or outlying possession bearing an official seal. Short form or abstract birth certificates and notarized copies of documents are not acceptable.
5.3. List B Documents
At least two documents are required if you do not have a document from List A. The documents must include:
- a valid photo ID, and
- a document that meets citizenship requirements. (e.g. one document from each column below)
Valid Photo ID
- Unexpired driver’s license issued by a State or outlying possession of the U.S.
- Unexpired temporary driver’s license plus expired driver’s license (constitutes one document)
- Unexpired photo ID card issued by the federal government or by a State or outlying possession of the U.S. This must include a federal agency, State or State agency seal or logo (such as a State university ID). Permits are not considered valid identity documents (such as gun permits).
- Unexpired U.S. military ID card
- Unexpired U.S. retired military ID card
- Unexpired U.S. military dependent’s card
- Native American tribal document with photo
- Unexpired Department of Homeland Security (DHS)/ Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
- Unexpired Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)
Valid Proof of Citizenship
- U.S. Birth Certificate
- U.S. Certificate of Citizenship (N-560 or N-561)
- U.S. Certificate of Naturalization (N-550 or N-570)
- U.S. Citizen Identification Card (I-179 or I-197)
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad (FS-240)
- Certification of Report of Birth Abroad (DS-1350 or FS-545)
- Expired U.S. passport within 12 months of expiration
**A passport cannot be used as a List A document if it is expired. If it has expired within the past 12 months, it can be used, but only as a proof of citizenship (List B). Additionally, an expired U.S. passport may not be presented by itself. It must be presented with at least one other List B document.*
6. Locating TSA PreCheck Enrollment Centers
Finding a convenient TSA PreCheck enrollment center is essential for completing your application. With over 400 locations nationwide, including many at airports, you can easily find one near you.
6.1. Online Locator Tool
The TSA provides an online locator tool to help you find enrollment centers. Visit here and enter your zip code or city to find nearby locations.
6.2. Airport Locations
Many major airports have TSA PreCheck enrollment centers. Here are some examples:
| State | Airport |
|---|---|
| Arizona | Phoenix (PHX) |
| Arkansas | Little Rock (LIT) |
| California | Los Angeles (LAX), Sacramento (SMF), San Diego (SAN), Santa Ana (SNA), San Francisco (SFO) |
| Colorado | Denver (DEN) |
| Connecticut | Windsor Locks (BDL) |
| Florida | Fort Myers (RSW), Miami (MIA), Orlando (MCO), Palm Beach (PBI), Tampa (TPA) |
| Georgia | Atlanta (ATL) |
| Illinois | Chicago (MDW, ORD), Springfield (SPI) |
| Indiana | Indianapolis (IND) |
| Kentucky | Hebron (CVG) |
| Massachusetts | Boston Logan (BOS) |
| Michigan | Detroit (DTW) |
| Minnesota | Minneapolis-Saint Paul (MSP) |
| Missouri | St. Louis (STL) |
| Nevada | Las Vegas (LAS) |
| New York | Syracuse (SYR) |
| North Carolina | Charlotte (CLT), Raleigh–Durham (RDU) |
| Pennsylvania | Pittsburgh (PIT) |
| Tennessee | Memphis (MEM), Nashville (BNA) |
| Texas | Austin (AUS), Dallas (DFW), Houston (HOU, IAH) |
| Virginia | Arlington (DCA), Dulles (IAD) |
| Washington | Seattle (SEA), Spokane (GEG) |
6.3. Off-Airport Locations
In addition to airport locations, there are over 350 off-airport enrollment centers. These are often located in convenient locations such as office buildings and retail stores.
7. Maintaining Your Known Traveler Number
Once you have obtained your KTN, it’s important to maintain it to continue enjoying the benefits of expedited screening. This section covers renewal, updates, and troubleshooting common issues.
7.1. Renewal
TSA PreCheck and Global Entry memberships are valid for five years. You must renew your membership before it expires to continue enjoying the benefits.
- Renewal Application: You can renew your membership online through the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website.
- Renewal Fee: The renewal fee for TSA PreCheck is $70, while the renewal fee for Global Entry is $100.
- Renewal Timeline: You can begin the renewal process up to six months before your membership expires.
7.2. Updating Your Information
It’s important to keep your information up to date with the TSA and DHS. If you change your name or address, you must update your information on the TTP website.
7.3. Troubleshooting Common Issues
- KTN Not Working: If your KTN is not working, ensure that you have entered it correctly in your airline profile and when booking travel. Also, verify that the name on your airline reservation matches the name you used when applying for TSA PreCheck.
- Lost KTN: If you have lost your KTN, you can retrieve it through the TTP website.
- Application Status: You can check the status of your application online through the TTP website.
8. Tips for a Smooth TSA PreCheck Experience
To make the most of your TSA PreCheck membership, follow these tips for a smooth and efficient experience at the airport.
8.1. Ensure KTN is on Your Boarding Pass
Always check your boarding pass to ensure that it displays the TSA PreCheck indicator. This confirms that you are eligible for expedited screening on that particular flight.
8.2. Arrive Early
Even with TSA PreCheck, it’s a good idea to arrive at the airport early. This allows you plenty of time to navigate security and reach your gate without rushing.
8.3. Follow TSA Guidelines
Familiarize yourself with TSA guidelines regarding prohibited items and other security regulations. This will help you avoid delays and ensure a smooth screening process.
8.4. Be Prepared
Have your boarding pass and identification ready when you approach the TSA PreCheck lane. This will help keep the line moving quickly.
8.5. Pack Smart
Pack your carry-on bag strategically to make it easy to remove any items that may need additional screening. Place electronics and liquids in easily accessible locations.
9. How TRAVELS.EDU.VN Enhances Your Travel Experience
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9.3. Why Choose TRAVELS.EDU.VN for Your Napa Valley Trip?
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9.4. Customer Support and Assistance
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9.5. Contact TRAVELS.EDU.VN Today
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10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Known Traveler Numbers
This section addresses common questions about Known Traveler Numbers, providing clear and concise answers to help you navigate the application process and understand the benefits.
10.1. What is the difference between TSA PreCheck and Global Entry?
TSA PreCheck provides expedited security screening at U.S. airports, while Global Entry provides expedited customs and immigration clearance when entering the United States. Global Entry also includes TSA PreCheck benefits.
10.2. How long is a TSA PreCheck membership valid?
A TSA PreCheck membership is valid for five years.
10.3. How much does it cost to apply for TSA PreCheck?
The non-refundable fee to apply for TSA PreCheck is $85.
10.4. Can I walk in to a TSA PreCheck enrollment center?
While walk-ins are accepted at some locations, scheduling an appointment can save you time.
10.5. What documents do I need to apply for TSA PreCheck?
You need to provide original or certified copies of identity and citizenship status documentation. See Section 5 for a detailed list of acceptable documents.
10.6. How long does it take to get a Known Traveler Number?
Most applicants receive their KTN in 3-5 days, though some applications can take up to 60 days.
10.7. How do I add my KTN to my airline reservation?
Add your KTN to your airline profile or provide it when making air travel reservations.
10.8. What if my KTN is not working?
Ensure that you have entered it correctly in your airline profile and when booking travel. Also, verify that the name on your airline reservation matches the name you used when applying for TSA PreCheck.
10.9. Can children use TSA PreCheck with their parents?
Children 12 and under can use TSA PreCheck lanes with a parent or guardian who has TSA PreCheck. Children 13 and older need their own KTN.
10.10. How do I renew my TSA PreCheck membership?
You can renew your membership online through the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website up to six months before your membership expires.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Known Traveler Number is a valuable investment for frequent travelers, offering expedited security screening and a more predictable airport experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily apply for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or other trusted traveler programs. And when planning your next trip, remember that TRAVELS.EDU.VN is here to provide comprehensive travel planning services, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable vacation. Ready to elevate your travel experience? Contact TRAVELS.EDU.VN today and let us help you plan your dream getaway.
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