Understanding the nuances of travel security programs can be confusing. Many travelers wonder, “Is Tsa Precheck The Same As Known Traveler Number (KTN)?” While related, they are not the same. This article breaks down the relationship between TSA PreCheck and your KTN, and what you need to know to ensure a smooth airport experience.
TSA PreCheck is an expedited screening program that allows eligible travelers to experience a smoother security process at participating U.S. airports. As a member, you don’t have to remove your shoes, belts, or light outerwear, and you can keep your laptop and compliant liquids in your carry-on bag.
Your Known Traveler Number (KTN) is assigned to you when you are approved for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or other trusted traveler programs like NEXUS or SENTRI. It’s the key to unlocking your expedited screening benefits. Think of your KTN as the identifier that links you to your TSA PreCheck or other trusted traveler program membership.
How Your Known Traveler Number Works
When booking airline tickets, you must enter your KTN in the designated field. This ensures that the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on your boarding pass. Without the KTN properly inputted, you won’t receive TSA PreCheck benefits, even if you are a member.
What Can Disqualify You from TSA PreCheck?
Certain actions can disqualify you from TSA PreCheck expedited screening, potentially leading to suspension or permanent revocation of your membership:
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Security Violations: Committing violations such as assault, making threats, interfering with the flight crew, or bringing prohibited items to an airport can lead to disqualification.
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Criminal History: TSA PreCheck enrollees undergo recurrent criminal history vetting. New criminal records may trigger a temporary suspension while TSA investigates. Depending on the severity of the offense, your enrollment can be temporarily suspended or permanently disqualified.
An enrollment center helps travelers sign up for TSA PreCheck.
The duration of disqualification depends on the severity and frequency of violations. A first-time offense might result in suspension for up to five years, while egregious or repeated offenses could lead to permanent disqualification.
Troubleshooting TSA PreCheck Issues
If you’re not receiving the TSA PreCheck indicator on your boarding pass, consider these steps:
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Check Your Membership Status: Verify that your membership hasn’t expired. You can look up your KTN and membership status here.
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Confirm Airline Participation: Ensure that your airline participates in the TSA PreCheck program. You can find a list of participating airlines here.
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Verify Information Accuracy: Double-check that your KTN, name, and date of birth are accurate in your airline reservation. Even a small discrepancy can prevent the TSA PreCheck indicator from appearing.
Travelers go through airport security.
Need Further Assistance?
If you’ve taken these steps and still don’t have the TSA PreCheck indicator on your boarding pass, or if you have questions about your status, you can reach out to TSA for assistance:
- X (Twitter @AskTSA): https://twitter.com/AskTSA
- Facebook Messenger: http://www.fb.com/AskTSA
- Apple Business Chat: https://bcrw.apple.com/urn:biz:f6ea5e84-10e9-47ae-8aa5-774439d8fdc4
- Text: Text “Travel” to AskTSA (275-872)
- TSA Contact Center: (866) 289-9673
- Online Form: Contact TSA Online
If you received a notice of violation, contact your case agent directly.
Important Considerations
It’s important to remember that TSA uses unpredictable security measures, both seen and unseen, throughout the airport. All travelers are subject to screening, and no individual is guaranteed expedited screening.
