Expedited TSA Screening for U.S. Military Members

Getting through airport security is often the most stress-inducing and annoying aspect of travel. Having to wait in line while your fellow travelers remove their shoes, belt, jacket, and all electronics from their carry-on can often lead to lines lasting over an hour.

The good news is that TSA provides airport security screening assistance and benefits for all members of the U.S. military. This expedited screening is accomplished through TSA PreCheck, allowing quicker security screening at more than 200 airports with 80 participating airlines nationwide.

There is no need to waste time in line to remove your shoes, belt, jackets, or electronics from your carry-on bag and walk through the metal detector. Usually, TSA PreCheck costs $85 for a five-year membership, but it is free to all U.S. military members.

To be eligible for the program, you must be a member of the U.S. military, including members in the National Guard and Reserves. In addition, Cadets and Midshipmen of U.S. Service Academies are also eligible to receive TSA PreCheck screening benefits.

To use TSA PreCheck security lanes, participants must enter their 10-digit DoD ID number, located on the back of their Common Access Card, in the “Known Traveler Number” field when making both official travel or leisure airline reservations. As an actively serving member of the military, you are automatically enrolled in the program.

Ensure your DoD ID Number is included in all future airline reservations. Save the number in all of your frequent flyer and Defense Travel System profiles.

A TSA PreCheck indicator will typically appear at the top of your ticket when you receive your boarding pass. This indicator must be present on your boarding pass for you to use the TSA PreCheck lanes. If it is not present, be sure to have an airline agent add it for you when you check-in.

Military members are not required to be on official travel orders or in uniform to benefit from TSA PreCheck. Family members traveling with you aged 12 and under can also proceed through the TSA PreCheck lanes. However, family members aged 13 and older must go to the regular security lines or apply for the TSA Trusted Traveler program with the $85 fee.