TSA PreCheck: Is It Really the Ultimate Airport Hack?

For frequent flyers frustrated with long airport security lines, TSA PreCheck promises a faster, more convenient experience. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) states that PreCheck members enjoy shorter wait times, no need to remove shoes, laptops, belts, or liquids, and an overall smoother security process.

However, TSA PreCheck isn’t always the time-saving hack travelers expect. Before you spend $78 on enrollment, here’s what you need to know.

1. TSA PreCheck Is Not Available at Every Airport

According to the TSA’s official website, PreCheck lanes are available at more than 200 airports nationwide, but not all airports offer the service. Smaller airports often do not have a dedicated TSA PreCheck lane, making the program less valuable for those frequently flying from regional locations.

Check Before You Fly: Before signing up, visit the TSA website to confirm if your home airport offers PreCheck lanes.

2. TSA PreCheck Does Not Always Mean Shorter Lines

While TSA advertises an average wait time of under 10 minutes for PreCheck members, some airports experience long PreCheck lines—sometimes even longer than standard security lines.

Why?
More travelers are signing up for TSA PreCheck, increasing demand.
Airports allocate fewer lanes to TSA PreCheck compared to standard security.
Some peak travel times (e.g., holidays, early mornings) may still cause delays.

Pro Tip: If security is a major concern, consider CLEAR, a biometric screening program that provides even faster security access at select airports.

3. TSA PreCheck Costs $78 – But Is It Worth It?

As of 2025, the TSA PreCheck enrollment fee is $78 for five years, with renewal costing $70. While some premium travel credit cards reimburse this fee, travelers who fly only once or twice per year may not find it worthwhile.

When TSA PreCheck Is Worth It:
You fly frequently (at least 4-5 times per year).
You often depart from major airports with long security lines.
You have a credit card that covers the TSA PreCheck fee.

When It’s Not Worth It:
You fly only 1-2 times per year.
Your home airport does not have TSA PreCheck lanes.
You mostly use small regional airports with short security lines.

Alternative: If you’re flying from Orlando International Airport (MCO), consider MCO Reserve, a free program that allows travelers to reserve a shorter security screening time slot—no PreCheck required!

4. TSA PreCheck Does Not Guarantee You’ll Avoid Extra Screening

TSA PreCheck does not exempt travelers from random additional screening. Even if you are a PreCheck member, the TSA can still select you for enhanced security checks, which may include bag searches or body scans.

Bottom Line: Paying for PreCheck does not guarantee a hassle-free security process every time.

5. Family Travelers May Pay Extra for TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck automatically applies to children under 13 traveling with an enrolled parent. However, if you’re traveling with teens aged 13 and older, they must have their own TSA PreCheck membership—which means additional costs for families.

Pro Tip: If you travel as a family, consider whether the extra cost for multiple PreCheck memberships is worth the benefit.

Final Verdict: Should You Get TSA PreCheck?

While TSA PreCheck can be beneficial for frequent flyers, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Consider your travel frequency, airport size, and security line trends before enrolling.

Best for: Business travelers, frequent flyers, and those using large airports.
Not ideal for: Occasional travelers, small airport users, and families with teens.

Before you apply, compare TSA PreCheck with alternative programs like CLEAR or airport reserve systems to find the best fit for your travel needs!