Flying Smarter: My Experience with TSA PreCheck

By Frank Macek

If you’ve spent any amount of time traveling through U.S. airports, you know the drill all too well. Long lines, shoes coming off, belts being stripped away, laptops pulled from bags, and that uneasy feeling of being rushed through security while trying to keep track of your belongings.

For years, this was my reality every time I stepped into an airport. I used to accept it as part of the price of travel—just another hurdle to jump before boarding a plane. But a few years ago, I decided enough was enough. That’s when I looked into the TSA PreCheck program, and let me tell you, it has changed the way I travel.

Today, I want to share my personal experience applying for TSA PreCheck, walk you through what’s required, and explain why it’s one of the smartest investments you can make as a frequent traveler—or even if you only fly a couple times a year.

Starting the Journey: Applying for TSA PreCheck

When I first decided to get TSA PreCheck, I’ll admit I was a little intimidated. I had this vision in my mind that it was going to be a complicated government process with endless forms and long waiting times. The truth? It was surprisingly easy.

The process starts online at the TSA PreCheck application page. You fill out a basic application that takes maybe 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll provide standard information: your name, date of birth, address, and details about your travel history. Nothing too overwhelming. The most important part is making sure your information matches exactly with what’s on your driver’s license or passport. Trust me, even a small discrepancy can create headaches later when airlines try to match your information.

After completing the application, you schedule an in-person appointment at an enrollment center. These centers are scattered across the country—sometimes at airports, but also at local office buildings and even UPS Store locations. For me, the nearest one was just a 10-minute drive away in Middleburgh Heights, so I booked my appointment and had it set for the following week.

The In-Person Appointment

The appointment was quick and painless. I showed up with my driver’s license and passport in hand—two forms of ID that prove both citizenship and identity. The staff checked my documents, verified my information, and then collected my fingerprints using a digital scanner. They also took a quick photo, which becomes part of your TSA profile.

The whole process took less than 15 minutes. Honestly, the longest part was just waiting in the small lobby for my turn.

Once everything was submitted, I was told to expect a notification within a couple of weeks. Sure enough, less than ten days later, I received an email letting me know that I had been approved. I logged in to retrieve my Known Traveler Number (KTN), which is the golden ticket that unlocks TSA PreCheck benefits.

What’s Required for Approval

TSA PreCheck isn’t open to everyone—there are a few requirements. You need to be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or a lawful permanent resident. You also must pass a background check, which looks for disqualifying criminal offenses. For most people, this isn’t an issue. As long as you’re in good standing, your approval should come quickly.

The Cost of TSA PreCheck

When I looked into pricing, I realized TSA PreCheck was much more affordable than I expected. The application fee is $78, and it’s valid for five years once approved. That breaks down to just $15.60 per year—a small price to pay for peace of mind every time you fly.

When it’s time to renew, the fee is currently $70 for another five years if you renew online, which is even more of a bargain. You don’t have to repeat the entire in-person appointment unless your fingerprints or ID need updating, making the renewal process even smoother.

Another tip: many major credit cards (particularly premium travel cards) and some airline loyalty programs will reimburse the fee as part of their perks. Before you pay out of pocket, check whether your credit card or frequent flyer status covers it. In my case, my card picked up the cost, which made the decision to apply a no-brainer.

Benefits: How TSA PreCheck Changes the Airport Experience

Now comes the fun part—what happens once you have TSA PreCheck. The first time I used it, I’ll never forget the feeling. I arrived at Cleveland Hopkins Airport on a busy Monday morning. The standard security line stretched almost to the ticket counters, with dozens of stressed travelers waiting to snake their way toward the scanners. Normally, this would have been my reality too. But instead, I veered left into the dedicated TSA PreCheck lane.

There were only three people in line ahead of me. Three.

Within minutes, I was at the checkpoint. Here’s where the magic really happens:

• Shoes stay on. No more awkwardly balancing on one foot while trying to pull off sneakers or lace-up dress shoes.

• Belts and light jackets stay on. You don’t have to strip down like you’re entering a locker room.

• Laptops stay in your bag. That’s a big deal for me, since I travel with my laptop often. No more fumbling to pull it out and risk leaving it behind.

• Liquids remain packed. Forget the hassle of unpacking toiletries. As long as you follow the 3-1-1 rule, you’re good.

The difference is night and day. Instead of spending 25 minutes in line and stressing about whether I’d make my boarding time, I was through security in under 5 minutes and sipping coffee at my gate while other passengers were still queuing up.

Why TSA PreCheck is Worth It

For me, TSA PreCheck isn’t just about convenience—it’s about peace of mind. Travel already comes with plenty of stress: delayed flights, crowded terminals, and figuring out connections. Reducing at least one major pain point makes the whole experience smoother.

Even if you don’t travel frequently, having PreCheck can be a game changer. Imagine flying just once or twice a year during peak holiday travel. Airports are jam-packed, and security lines are at their worst. That’s exactly when TSA PreCheck pays for itself. I used mine during a Christmas trip to Las Vegas, and I walked through security so quickly that I actually had time to grab breakfast before boarding.

Another benefit is that children 12 and under can use the PreCheck lane with an eligible parent or guardian at no extra cost, which is a lifesaver for families traveling together.

Tips for Making the Most of TSA PreCheck

Based on my own experience, here are a few tips to ensure you get the most out of the program:

1. Always enter your KTN when booking flights. Airlines won’t automatically know you have TSA PreCheck unless you provide the number. You can save it in your frequent flyer profiles for convenience.

2. Double-check your boarding pass. TSA PreCheck will be indicated with a small icon or printed note. If it’s missing, check with the airline desk before security.

3. Traveling with family? Children 12 and under can join you in the PreCheck lane. For older kids or spouses, they’ll need their own membership.

4. Know the airports. While most major U.S. airports participate, a few smaller ones may not have PreCheck lanes. It’s rare, but it does happen.

5. Renew early. Don’t wait until the last minute. TSA sends reminders, but renewing a few months ahead keeps you covered.

Frank’s Final Thoughts

Looking back, I wish I had signed up for TSA PreCheck sooner. It’s one of those things you don’t realize how much you’ll appreciate until you use it. The reduced stress, the shorter lines, and the ability to keep my shoes on all make a huge difference. Travel feels smoother, more predictable, and just a little less exhausting.

If you’re someone who values your time and sanity while navigating airports, I can’t recommend TSA PreCheck enough. The application process is simple, the cost is reasonable, and the benefits start the moment you receive that Known Traveler Number.

So, next time you’re standing in a long line at security watching people breeze through the PreCheck lane, remember—you could be one of them. For me, it’s become an essential part of my travel routine, and I wouldn’t fly without it.

To apply for TSA Precheck, visit: https://www.tsa.gov/precheck