TSA has new changes, and it was about time they modernized a bit. You’ve probably experienced when they introduced TSA PreCheck to speed up the security process (yes, we hated it too. That 3.4 oz liquid bag as well, you’re not the only one).
Now they’ve announced a change that will make life a bit easier for those traveling with the whole family this summer. The TSA PreCheck Program has been a real lifesaver for them, and here’s who will now get it for free.
What exactly is TSA PreCheck?
We know everything costs money, but this PreCheck is a program designed to speed up airport screening for people considered low-risk. It usually costs around $76.75 for five years, although if you renew online it’s $58.75, which is pretty good considering the advantages.
With this program, you can go through security without removing your shoes, belt, or jacket, and you don’t need to take out your laptop or liquids from your bag. Very useful if you travel often and you look like a good person, right?
What’s changing now?
Starting this July, those who belong to Gold Star (people who lost a loved one during military service) won’t pay anything to use TSA PreCheck.
Spouses of active-duty military members will also get a $25 discount, which is also a good saving if you travel several times a year to visit your partner stationed somewhere else.
What’s included for Gold Star?
TSA has confirmed they want to reaffirm their commitment to the military community and offer free service to those visiting their relatives, and they’ll also have first-row privileges.
Faster lines and assistance
TSA will also open exclusive lines for military members at some airports near bases. The goal? To reduce wait times and make the airport experience a little less stressful.
For veterans and service members injured on duty, there’s the TSA Cares program, which offers personalized assistance at security checkpoints. The TSA team will verify the traveler’s situation and accompany them throughout the process.
How do you access all this?
If you work for the Department of Defense, you can use your military ID as your Known Traveler Number when booking flights. And for those living near a base, TSA will organize mobile events to help with TSA PreCheck enrollment without having to travel to another city.
What if you already paid for TSA PreCheck?
So far TSA hasn’t announced refunds for those who already paid for PreCheck, but if you’re part of one of these categories, you might be able to claim a refund at your next renewal. If you have questions, you can contact TSA Cares directly to see if your case applies.
Which airports will have exclusive lines?
Although TSA hasn’t given a final list, it’s expected that the first airports with military fast lanes will be those near active bases, such as:
- Norfolk (Virginia)
- San Diego (California)
- Fayetteville (North Carolina)
- San Antonio (Texas)
But stay tuned, because they’ll expand the program based on demand.
Any other hidden benefits?
Yes: some banks and credit cards also offer TSA PreCheck reimbursement (as part of benefit programs), so if you also meet military requirements, you could combine both and pay nothing at all!
And the kids?
Children under 12 traveling with an adult who has TSA PreCheck don’t need to pay or register.
All of this starts right before the peak travel season, when TSA expects to handle at least 3 million travelers per month. But beyond the practical, this is also an attempt to recognize those who have dedicated and given their lives for us and our country. The least we can do is offer them special treatment, even if it’s just at the airport.