Pay $85, and you can skip potentially long security lines for five years. Even better you won’t have to take off your shoes, jackets, or belts. You can leave your laptop and baggie with allowable liquids in your carryon bag.
Of course, since the
federal agency recently announced that it has enrolled more than two million
passengers in the expedited security screening program, those lines may start
getting longer, too. But with the major growth currently being experienced at
the Austin airport, participating in the program should still save passengers
time.
U.S. citizens and
permanent residents are eligible to apply for the program, which requires an
in-person visit at an application center. Fingerprints and required
documentation is required for the process. Approved PreCheck travelers receive
a “known traveler number” as soon as five business days after their interview
that can be used when booking travel.
The program began in
Oct. 2011, and now has 356 application centers around the country, including 39
on-site offices at airports. Austin has had a downtown PreCheck enrollment
center since 2014, but the airport site will be more convenient for many
travelers.
The $85 application
fee for PreCheck applicants covers an extensive background check as certain
criminal convictions — such as federal crimes or certain state felonies —
within the past seven years can disqualify applicants.
If you travel
internationally, check out the Global Entry program, which is offered through
U.S. Customs and Border Protection. I have been a member since 2014 ($100 for
five years), and it greatly expedites passing through customs in countries that
participate in the program and especially saves time when re-entering the U.S.
after foreign travel.
Once you have signed
up and been approved, fill in information with your “known traveler number” on
airline websites so the designation will be noted on your boarding pass. On
rare occasions it might be omitted, in which case you’ll have to join the
masses in the regular (longer) lines.Photos from free sources
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