TSA Announces Limited-Time Deal on PreCheck Enrollment

Image Courtesy © 2025 Transportation Security Administration. All Rights Reserved.

Washington, DC (SPA)---For many travelers, airport security is the most dreaded part of flying. Long lines, removing shoes, juggling laptops, and rushing to repack before boarding can turn even the smoothest trip into a stressful ordeal. But the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has been working to ease that pain point, and now a new deal on its popular TSA PreCheck program could make streamlined travel more accessible than ever.

The PreCheck Advantage

First launched in 2013, TSA PreCheck was designed to create a faster, less invasive screening process for low-risk travelers. Members gain access to special PreCheck lanes—typically much shorter than standard security lines—along with a simplified screening process.

Unlike the traditional security line, travelers in PreCheck don’t have to remove their belts, light jackets, laptops, or liquids (as long as they’re packed in a TSA-approved 3-1-1 bag). Shoes can also stay on, though in recent years, TSA has eased that rule for all travelers. Even so, the dedicated lanes and lighter screening still set PreCheck apart.

The program quickly gained traction with frequent flyers. By the end of 2024, more than 19 million people were enrolled, according to TSA figures, and the agency reports that PreCheck passengers typically wait five minutes or less at checkpoints.

Who Qualifies—and How to Enroll

PreCheck is open to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and lawful permanent residents who meet TSA’s eligibility standards. To ensure participants pose little security risk, applicants with certain criminal convictions—such as murder, espionage, or terrorism-related offenses—or pending charges for serious crimes are automatically disqualified.

Enrollment requires an online application, an in-person interview, and a background check conducted at an official enrollment center. Applicants must bring valid government-issued photo identification and proof of citizenship or permanent residency.

The cost is relatively modest compared with the time it saves: enrollment fees typically range from $77.95 to $85, and membership is valid for five years. That averages out to roughly $16 per year—a small price for skipping the headache of crowded security lines.

Is It Still Worth It?

Some travelers question whether PreCheck is as valuable today, given recent security updates that allow all passengers to keep their shoes on at checkpoints. But experts say the program still delivers meaningful benefits.

“Even with some rules being relaxed, there are still a lot of compelling advantages for PreCheck,” explained Henry Harteveldt, founder of Atmosphere Research Group, in a CNBC interview. “For frequent travelers, the shorter lines and smoother process make a huge difference.”

Indeed, with airports experiencing record-breaking passenger volumes this year, PreCheck dedicated lanes can shave off critical time and stress—particularly during peak travel seasons.

A Limited-Time Buy-One-Get-One Offer

To encourage more travelers to join, TSA has rolled out a special promotion. Through October 31, 2025, anyone enrolling in PreCheck through authorized provider IDEMIA can take advantage of a buy-one-get-one deal: when two people sign up together, the second enrollment receives $15 off.

The TSA framed the promotion as a way to make family and group travel more affordable and less stressful. “Whether you’re getting TSA PreCheck for your child traveling back to school or prepping for a family vacation, this is a great chance to save time and money,” the agency said in its announcement.

Bottom Line

With security lines stretching longer than ever, TSA PreCheck remains one of the most effective ways to make flying more efficient and enjoyable. And with this limited-time enrollment discount, now may be the perfect opportunity for families and frequent travelers alike to invest in peace of mind at the airport.

Deadline to enroll with the promotion: October 31, 2025.

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