Can I Apply TSA PreCheck to Flights I’ve Already Booked?

TPG reader Glenn sent me an email to ask about using TSA PreCheck:

While Global Entry provides members with an ID card, TSA PreCheck does not. Instead, you’ll receive written notice of approval that includes your Known Traveler Number (KTN), which is what determines whether you’ll be able to use the PreCheck lane on any given flight. If your KTN shows up on your reservation, then you’re all set. If not, then there’s little you can do at the airport to use the expedited lane.

The TSA actually does allow you to add your KTN to existing reservations. Most airlines let you do this by managing your reservation online (the same way you would for seat assignments or other changes), but you can also do it by phone. The most important step is to make sure that the information in your reservation perfectly matches whatever is in your TSA profile. Otherwise, your passenger data won’t be recognized and you won’t be able to use the PreCheck lane.

The easiest way to ensure that your KTN shows up is to add it to your various frequent flyer profiles. That way it will be added automatically to your reservations, and you won’t have to remember to input it every time you book a flight. You’ll need to do that for each airline individually, but keep in mind that not all airlines take part. The TSA recently added four airlines to the list, and both Frontier and Spirit should be added soon, which would bring the total number of participating carriers up to 18.

If you’re thinking of applying for PreCheck, I recommend going for Global Entry instead, since you’ll typically get PreCheck anyway once you’re approved and update your airline profiles. Global Entry only costs $15 more ($100 instead of $85), and it can save you a lot of time when you return home from travel abroad. There are several credit cards that will cover your application fee for Global Entry or PreCheck, which negates the slightly higher cost.

For more tips on how to speed your way through airport security, check out these posts:

If you have any other questions, please tweet me @thepointsguy, message me on Facebook or send me an email at info@thepointsguy.com.

Source: thepointsguy.com