Known Traveler Number Guide: (How to Lookup, Global Entry, Pre-Check) [2022]
I’ll cover how you can get one and the best way to do that with programs like TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry. I’ll show you how to look-up your Known Traveler Number and add it to your travel itineraries with airlines like United, Southwest, and Delta.
Finally, I’ll explain the differences between a Known Traveler Number and a Redress Number.
Table of Contents
What is a Known Traveler Number?
A Known Traveler Number, also called your “KTN,” is a 9-digit number used to link your TSA Pre-Check enrollment to your travel itinerary in order to ensure that you can receive TSA Pre-Check benefits like expedited security screening.
This is the same number used for other trusted traveler programs, such as Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI. However, for these latter programs, this number is known as your “PASSID.”
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Why do you want a Known Traveler Number?
With a Known Traveler Number, you can participate in TSA Pre-Check, which means you’ll be able to breeze through security at airports.
How do you get a Known Traveler Number?
You can get a Known Traveler Number by signing up, getting approved, and paying the fees for any of the following programs:
TSA Pre-Check
As already discussed, TSA Pre-Check will usually get you through airport security in a breeze.
You’ll usually get access to a priority security line which is often much shorter than the standard security line (though not always, unfortunately).
You’ll also be able to go through a less restrictive and invasive screening process. You often only have to pass through a traditional metal detector (as opposed to the full-body scanners) and you also get to enjoy the following benefits:
This program costs $85 to enroll for five years and it does not require the extensive interview process that Global Entry requires. There are multiple ways to get TSA Pre-Check for free and you can read about those here.
Global Entry
Global Entry would be my preferred method for obtaining a Known Traveler Number. That’s because not only will you get TSA Pre-Check, but you’ll also get expedited entry at Customs and Immigration when making your way back into the US.
This program does require you to attend an interview to be approved but the interview process is not difficult at all. If you’ve got a clean criminal history and come prepared with your documents then you should pass the background check and interview without any issues at all.
In some cases this “interview” process will only take about five minutes total.
You might get asked some very basic questions like what countries you have visited and whether or not you have traveled for business or pleasure. It’s hardly anything close to an interrogation in most cases.
The hardest part is often scheduling the interview because availability can be limited and in some cases it might take weeks (or even months) to find an open slot.
Luckily, some airports offer interviews upon arriving from international locations. So if you have some international travel coming up, this can be one of the easiest ways to get approved for Global Entry.
There are many credit cards that come with a $100 statement credit for your Global Entry application fee, so it’s very easy to get this program for free. My personal recommendations for getting a $100 statement credit for your Global Entry/TSA Pre-Check is to go with the United Explorer Card. It has great perks and a low annual fee and you can read more about it here!
Since you’ll get both TSA Pre-Check and expedited entry back into the US, I think Global Entry is the way to go for many people.
NEXUS
NEXUS is a joint program between the US and Canada that will grant pre-approved, low-risk travelers expedited entry into both Canada and the US. Specifically, membership in the NEXUS program allows you to reduce your wait times at designated ports of entry by:
- Using dedicated processing lanes at land border crossings
- Using NEXUS kiosks when entering Canada
- Using their card in dedicated SENTRI lanes along the U.S.-Mexico border
- Using Global Entry kioks when entering the United States, and
- Calling a marine telephone reporting center to report your arrival into the United States and Canada
You may also be granted access to the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) Security Line at some Canadian airports to expedite airport pre-boarding security screening. (This is like a Canadian version of TSA Pre-Check.)
Just like Global Entry, NEXUS will require you to clear a background check. The difference is that this background check also is submitted to Canadian authorities, such as the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
One of the major draws to the NEXUS program is that the application fee is only $50. This is surprising since NEXUS comes with both Global Entry and TSA Pre-Check, which cost $100 and $85 respectively. For people who live near or travel between the US/Canada border, NEXUS is an especially attractive bargain.
SENTRI
The Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection (SENTRI) is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States.
You can enter the United States by using dedicated primary lanes into the United States at Southern land border ports so this is a program you might be interested in if you’re traveling between the US and Mexico a lot.
You might be a little overwhelmed with all of the different Trusted Traveler programs and perhaps you’re not sure which program you should sign-up for.
If that’s the case you can check out this TSA tool which can help you narrow down what program is most ideal for you based on your citizenship, number of flights, and travel destinations.
Other related travel programs
CLEAR
CLEAR is a privately owned service offered to passengers that allows them to bypass the lines going into airport security, whether you are going into the standard security line or the TSA Pre-Check line.
In order to use it you find the CLEAR line leading to security which should have little to no line and then you simply scan your boarding pass and biometric data and then you’re off to the races and able to skip whatever line you would have been waiting on. You don’t even have to show your ID.
CLEAR can be great for frequent flyers in busy airports but it’s not cheap at $179 per year (though cheaper promos are often available). This program does not require you to have a Known Traveler Number.
Mobile Passport
Launched in the fall of 2014, Mobile Passport Control is an app, developed by Airside Mobile and Airports Council International-North America in partnerships with CBP, that you can download to use in order to expedite your entry into the US. It’s available in the Apple App Store and Google Play.
It’s free to use and can be just about as good as Global Entry at some airports, though I’d still take Global Entry over Mobile Passport.
That’s because Global Entry gets you Pre-Check and also allows you to get through customs AND immigration while Mobile Passport often only get your priority access through immigration. This program also does not require you to have a Known Traveler Number.
Image via CLEAR.
Adding a Known Traveler Number
Once you have your Known Traveler Number, you’re going to need to add that number to your travel profiles for the various airlines so that your Known Traveler Number will automatically show up in your itineraries.
However, you should note that your Known Traveler Number will NOT automatically show up in all of your travel itineraries.
Many people assume that once they add their Known Traveler Number to their profile, it will always show up but that’s not the case. So you always need to double check that your KTN was added.
Below, you can see how to add your Known Traveler Number to some of the major airlines. For whatever reason, it is not always the easiest thing to do since you often have to click around a lot.
Usually you can find where to input it if you just look for your profile and a button allowing you to edit your profile, but the steps below should help you locate this.
American Airlines
Sign in to your American Airlines account and then click on your name at the top of the page. Then click on “your account.” Next, click on “edit account” and then click on “Information and password.” Scroll down and then under “Secure traveler,” you will see where to input your Known Traveler Number.
Southwest
Sign in and click on “My Account” and then scroll to “My Preferences” to change your personal details within your profile information.
United
Sign in and click on Profile and Preferences and then click on “Travel identification documents” and then you’ll see the area to enter it in below.
Delta
Go to the Delta website and log-in and then proceed to My Delta -> My Profile -> Basic Info. You’ll then see a field where you can input your Known Traveler Number.
JetBlue
First, sign in to your JetBlue account. Click on the arrow in the upper right corner by your name and then click on “Edit profile.” Scroll down and you will see where to input your information.
Hawaiian Airlines
First, sign in to your Hawaiian Airlines account. Go to My Account and under that click on “Profile & Settings.” Click on the travel tab and you will see where to input your information.
Travel portals and OTAs
Most online travel agencies (like Expedia) will allow you to enter in your Known Traveler Number into your profile which should populate into your itinerary when you make a booking.
But since you’re dealing with a third party, you should always verify that your number was properly included in your booking.
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Add Known Traveler Number after booking?
If you add your Known Traveler Number to your profile after you make a flight reservation, there’s a good chance that your flight itinerary is not linked to your Known Traveler Number and you won’t get TSA Pre-Check.
In that case, you should be able to call up the airline and request for them to input your number into your itinerary.
You could also just wait until you arrive at the check-in desk for baggage and request for your Known Traveler Number to be added to your boarding pass.
Also, sometimes you’ll have to re-add your Known Traveler Number to specific itineraries. It’s not always clear why this happens but sometimes you’ll just have to do it.
If you ever are given a boarding pass without TSA Pre-Check on it and you know you have a TSA Pre-Check membership, simply approach an agent at the check-in desk and tell them you would like to add your Known Traveler Number.
It’s usually no problem for them to do this and they can re-issue you a boarding pass in a couple of seconds that has TSA Pre-Check.
For the reasons above, I highly recommend that you keep your Known Traveler Number somewhere easily retrievable like in your smart phone in a folder or app that you won’t forget about and can quickly pull up.
Where can I look up and find my Known Traveler Number?
If you are a member of the TSA Pre-Check Application Program you can, look up your KTN online.
If you are a member of another trusted traveler program, such as Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI, log on to the Trusted Traveler Program website to obtain your PASSID, which once again is the same as your KTN.
You’ll find it right under “Program Memberships.”
You can also check the back of your trusted traveler cards for your PASSID. Note that TSA does not issue an ID card like Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI do.
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What is a redress number?
You might also be wondering about a redress number since that field often shows up near where you input your Known Traveler Number.
A redress number is the record identifier for people who apply for redress through the DHS Travel Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP).
“DHS TRIP is for travelers who have been repeatedly identified for additional screening and who want to file an inquiry to have erroneous information corrected in DHS systems.”
For example, someone might share the same name as another person on a no-fly list and that might bring up a red flag every single time this unfortunate traveler attempts to board a plane.
The redress number will help those people avoid additional searches, pat downs, and questioning in the future.
So in case you were wondering a redress number really has nothing to do with your Known Traveler Number.
Known Traveler Number for Military members
If you are a member of the military, you can utilize TSA Pre-Check for free.
Members of the U.S. Armed Forces can get expedited screening including those serving in the U.S. Coast Guard, Reserves, and National Guard.
This can be done by using the official Department of Defense (DoD) identification number when making flight reservations. Your 10-digit DoD ID number is located on the back of your Combined Access Card ID and it is not the same as your SSN. Read more about how to utilize this benefit here.
TSA Pre-Check vs Global Entry
Now that you’re aware of all of the benefits you might be wondering whether or not you should choose TSA Pre-Check or Global Entry.
The answer to this question depends a lot on your personal preferences.
If you are only going to be traveling within the US then your need for Global Entry will be nearly zero.
In that case, getting TSA Pre-Check should be just fine. The only drawback to that is that if an unexpected trip comes up you’ll lose out on the benefit you could have had with Global Entry.
On the other hand, if you’re going to be traveling internationally then you might want to think about Global Entry since it will save you a lot of time getting back into the country.
The two drawbacks to Global Entry are that it requires you to attend an interview and that the background check can be tough to clear if you have anything on your record like a DWI, DUI, etc.
Known Traveler Number FAQ
The easiest way would be to get approved for TSA Pre-Check.
No, you do not need a Known Traveler Number for CLEAR?
At the time of booking, you will typically see a field where you can enter your Known Traveler Number. In addition, you can add your Known Traveler Number to your frequent flyer profile.
If you are at the airport, you can also ask an agent to add your Known Traveler Number to your boarding pass.
There is no practical difference and these are essentially the same.
Final word
As you can see, getting a Known Traveler Number can be very easy and can even be done for free with the right credit card.
I recommend going with a program like Global Entry to get your PASSID/Known Traveler Number and using a credit card with a $100 credit for Global Entry.
If you always keep your Known Traveler Number with you at all times you’ll be able to add it to your boarding pass when needed and there shouldn’t be any major issues.
Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and creator of the credit card app, WalletFlo. He is a former attorney turned full-time credit card rewards/travel expert and has earned and redeemed millions of miles to travel the globe. Since 2014, his content has been featured in major publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, Forbes, CNBC, US News, and Business Insider. Find his full bio here.
TSA – Precheck, Global Entry, Known Traveler Number
Everyone loves a vacation – rest, relaxation, and exploration. What is not to love? Well, in a nut-shell – the getting there part! The getting there part is even harder if you fly! Thanks to a few nutjobs who made strict security checks at airports necessary, long lines at airport security are now the norm.
According to TSA, lines are long, long, long. Read more about the very long regular security lines here.
You can SKIP the long lines at airport security! Why wouldn’t anyone choose NOT to skip the line?
If you pay a little extra and go through the relatively painless process of filling out forms for a background check and going through an interview you can –
SAVE TIME, SKIP LONG LINES AND HEADACHES FOR 5 YEARS!
TSA Precheck, Global Entry, Known Traveler Number: What are the trusted traveler programs?
*TSA Precheck –
This program is for US Citizens and gives expedited security screening at participating airports
*Global Entry –
This program is for US Citizens, US lawful permanent residents, and citizens of a few other countries. It gives expedited processing through participating airports AND land borders and includes TSA Precheck benefits.
Global Entry is the one that we chose and TSA Precheck is what shows up on our tickets.
*NEXUS –
This program is for US Citizens and lawful permanent residents AND Canadian citizens and lawful residents. It gives faster processing at airports and land borders between the US and Canada. Includes Global Entry AND TSA Precheck benefits.
*SENTRI –
This program requires proof of citizenship and admissibility documentation. It gives faster processing through Custom and Border Protection screening at land borders. (For US citizens only: it also includes Global Entry and TSA Precheck benefits.
TSA Precheck, Global Entry, Known Traveler Number: So….what the heck is a known traveler number?
When you are prompted to fill in your ‘known traveler number’ as I was when I checked in online for Hawaiian airlines…I thought, ‘What the heck is a known traveler number?” I fill like I’m swimming in numbers and logins and passwords these days!
In short..whichever program, you are in…Global Entry, TSA Precheck, etc…the number you receive IS your known traveler number.
So, put that number in the box.
The English teacher in me doesn’t understand why they didn’t call it something else like Trusted Traveler Number….since all these programs fall under the ‘Trusted Traveler’ umbrella.
Wouldn’t that make sense?
Or, they could have written above the box…”Global Entry/TSA recheck/Nexus/Sentri” so you would know…. but no…the government had to find a more complicated verbiage to confuse the masses!
TSA Precheck, Global Entry, Known Traveler Number: BENEFITS
Five years is a long time to enjoy the benefits of TSA-Precheck, Global Entry, and Trusted Traveler programs.
1. You get to wait in a MUCH shorter line!
(OMG! Seriously, do you even need another reason?)
2. You’ll have less hassle going through the shorter line, too.
*You can leave ON shoes
*You can leave ON belts
*NO hassle with unpacking laptops
*YOu can leave on jackets
3. This is especially valuable for families.
When you are in a regular security line and taking off your shoes and belt and your kids’ shoes and belts and someone beeps on the machine to walk through and one kid is running off or stopped right in the middle in everything and people are almost falling over them and then the security person says they need to take an extra look at your carry on ….and you are trying to keep an eye on your purse with all your money, CC cards, etc. in it which is just sitting there in the open while other travelers are just walking by snatching up their stuff while the rest of your stuff is piling up at the end as the conveyor belt keeps right on going…….
You will be wishing you had listened to me and signed up one of these programs!!
4. This is also VERY valuable for nervous fliers.
If you have someone in your party who is a nervous flier anything you can do to have a smooth trip helps. Zipping through the line without undressing and unpacking will help calm the nerves. Read more about flight anxiety here.
TSA Precheck, Global Entry, Known Traveler Number: TIP
If you are a frequent flier member of your favorite airline(s) add your number to your frequent flier account. Then, it will automatically be added to your ticket every time you use your miles.
TSA Precheck, Global Entry, Known Traveler Number: Check to make sure they are printed on your tickets.
Remember to check that this number actually prints on your tickets.
If it doesn’t print you won’t be allowed in the shorter lines.
It isn’t automatically printed on your ticket – YOU have to enter it when you check in.
There is no ‘master computer list’ that security people have access to at the airport (though if we can put a man on the moon….why isn’t there. ) so YOU have to enter your number on your own ticket or they have no clue it even exists. We learned this the hard way! Benefit from our mistake.
TSA Precheck, Global Entry, Known Traveler Number: KIDS
YES – children have to have their OWN account and number.
Children applying for TSA Precheck or Global Entry:
*parents fill out an application
*attend an interview with your child
*will receive their own card and number
Just like everyone of every age needs a passport, everyone in your traveling party of any age needs a TSA Precheck or Global Entry account and number.
Like the weakest link, if there is one person in your party without it…the rest of the party will be waiting on that one person.
Insist on everyone getting an account.
TSA Precheck, Global Entry, Known Traveler Number: BUT, what if…
Skeptics and penny pinchers often want to avoid paying the fee for TSA Precheck and Global Entry programs.
Saving money when you can is a lofty and admirable goal – every penny saved is a penny that goes into the travel fund, right? I’m with you BUT… on the other hand…..
“For a nickle more you can go first class! Anonymous”
Of course, you can’t really go first class for a nickel more, as my very literate 10-year-old pointed out, but..you get the drift.
If you fly at all…I guarantee you’ll appreciate the programs to make traveling easier.
Think you don’t need trusted traveler numbers to skip the lines? Think again!
Some think you can skip the line or be allowed to circumvent the line for ‘good’ reasons. Let’s bust those myths:
MYTH #1 If I’m super pregnant they’ll feel sorry for me and let me go ahead of the line.
Ha! This type of chivalry died years ago.
Sad but true. Not only will you stand in line like everyone else but you might even be more likely that you will be selected for ‘extra’ screening to make sure that big belly is real and full of a baby instead of god knows what.
I know this from personal experience. Every single time I flew very pregnant I was singled out for the extra screening.
MYTH #2 I need a wheelchair and have one requested. This will be faster than the regular line.
HA! If might be faster if you bring your own wheelchair from home, but if you have to wait for someone at the airport to bring you a wheelchair and push you…be prepared to wait. You’ll need more time – not less.
MYTH #3 My elderly friend has a cane and we travel together. They will let us go together.
HA! If this actually worked routinely everyone would buy a cane or rent a grandma!
It doesn’t even work for the cane carrying person never mind the cane carrying person’s friend.
Now..once in a while you’ll encounter a non-jaded security person who might give you a little extra help.
Though it would probably be their first day on the job because seriously…Can you just imagine the snarling people they have to deal with All. Day. Long. Every. Single. Day?
But….don’t count on it.
TSA Precheck, Global Entry, Known Traveler Number: The Bottom Line
Whether you travel a little or a lot…domestically or internationally…alone or in a group…TSA Precheck, Global Entry, and Known Traveler Number programs are a MUST.
*skip the stress
The beginning of every fantastic trip begins with a stress-free airport experiences!
Sign up for Global Entry or TSA Precheck today.
But…don’t stop there! If you want a truly stress free experience, start with The Educational Tourist. As a travel agent and travel writer, I can offer you easy trip planning – make it educational, fun, and stress-free!
How to Lookup Your Known Traveler Number (Pre-Check & Global Entry)
Disclosure: Town & Tourist may receive a commission for purchases made through links in this article, at no additional cost to you.
Traveling in the post-Covid-19 era has become a lot trickier. Even though some restrictions have been reduced, certain travel requirements must be met – compulsory quarantine, PCR tests, and location tracking apps. For this reason, many people devise other means possible to make their trips easier.
Your Known Traveler Number (KTN) is the same as your TSA number or TSA travel number. You will be given your KTN after you complete your application process and pay your processing fee of $85 to grant your interview and record you fingerprint. If you lose your number, you can look it up on the TSA Trusted Traveler Program’s Website.
Interestingly, CLEAR, NEXUS, TSA PreCheck, and Global Entry make traveling easier. As far as you have the valid documents, you’ll be excused to skip lines and expedite airport screening, thereby saving time for yourself.
There won’t be any need to remove your laptop from its case. Also, with the TSA Precheck, you won’t have to remove your light jacket, belt, or shoes. Read on to find more interesting benefits of the Known Traveler Number.
What is a Known Traveler Number?
Known Traveler Number (KTN) is the basic identifier and primarily serves as the TSA number. However, those qualified for TSA PreCheck aren’t issued identification cards like members of other Trusted Traveler Programs like Nexus, Global Entry, SENTRI, etc.
The KTN is handy since it’ll be needed for every valid flight booking. With KTN, you’ll be eligible for screening benefits. Simply put, your Known Traveler Number is your membership number with the Trusted Traveler Program.
KTN allows you to access Global Entries and TSA PreCheck security benefits. However, that depends majorly on the Trusted Traveler Program you register for. A traveler number is a 9-digit number that links the TSA PreCheck to your travel arrangements to ensure you can receive all the benefits.
Is the Known Traveler Number the Same as TSA PreCheck?
Even though it’s not obvious, your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck number is the same as your Known Traveler Number. All you need to do is fill in your Known Traveler Number in the designated field when booking your flight.
In most situations, you’ll not have to take your Global Entry card to access the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck lanes at the airport. However, some airports request travelers to show their physical cards before going onboard.
This development is mostly the case at airports that allow travelers with Global Entry to clear security in advance, especially for flights moving from Canada. It also happens when moving to the U.S. by car via SENTRI or NEXUS lanes.
What’s the Difference Between TSA PreCheck and Global Entry?
Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are parts of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Trusted Traveler Programs. Global Entry offers fast U.S. customs screening for those traveling by international flights to the U.S. On the other hand, TSA PreCheck offers efficient security screening benefits for flights leaving U.S. airports.
Most of all, Global Entry members benefit from TSA PreCheck as a part of their membership. Therefore, after successfully completing the Global Entry application, you’ll have access to Two Trusted Traveler Programs, not just one.
Most travelers consider the expedited security screening at the airport the best benefit of the TSA PreCheck. So, it doesn’t matter whether you prefer keeping your luggage packed and your shoes on or you like finishing the airport security screening in no time; TSA PreCheck has so much in stock. If you’re a regular traveler, applying for TSA PreCheck and becoming a Trusted Traveler is one of the best decisions you’ll ever make.
For Global Entry, travelers who board international flights regularly consider the best benefit to be having to hasten custom processes when they return to the U.S.
If you majorly travel within the United States, your best choice is probably TSA PreCheck. Once you’re part of the TSA PreCheck membership, you’ll have access to all the benefits it offers at almost all domestic U.S. airports.
However, if you’re confused about which is the best for you, you can find the best choice on the Department of Homeland Security Trusted Traveler Program’s website.
How Do I Find My Global Entry Known Traveler Number?
You can find your Known Traveler Number on the back of your Global Entry card. If you are enrolled in SENTRI or NEXUS, you’ll find your PASSED number on the back of your card.
If it’s just TSA PreCheck that you have, log in to the Trusted Traveler Program website to access your Known Traveler Number. However, if you ever lose your SENTRI, NEXUS, or Global Entry card, you can use the Trusted Traveler Program website to find your Known Traveler Number.
All U.S. citizens, legal or national residents without a criminal record, are eligible to register for the TSA PreCheck membership program. Additionally, if you’re an immigrant, you can inquire about the steps for the application process via the Department of Homeland Security website.
To get your Known Traveler Number, you can apply quickly online. After that, you’ll have to schedule a one-on-one TSA PreCheck interview appointment at any enrollment center nearby. You’ll need to go with your identification card and other vital documents for the appointment. The interview process is usually fair and easy.
The proof of identity includes U.S. government-issued photo identifications such as birth certificates, passports, or driver’s licenses. Once the interview process is successful, you’ll be issued your KTN.
Is the Redress Number the Same as the Traveler Number?
The redress program is different from the Known Traveler program. Trusted Travelers are issued KTN (Known Traveler Number). Travelers that apply for redress consideration are issued a redress control number. This redress number is not the same as the Known Traveler Number.
A redress number is a 7-digit code the TSA gives to help verify a traveler’s identity and prevent them from being identified wrongly. Simply put, a Redress Control Number (RCN) is a case number that refers to a passenger’s application for redress through the Department of Homeland Security Traveler Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP) program.
The DHS TRIP program serves as a channel that helps to reduce the rate of misidentification among travelers. It also aids easy clarification of identity by travelers with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to ensure no more confusion with the entire watch list of members.
In simple terms, the redress program is set up to help travelers who may be wrongly identified as a person on the TSA Watch List. For clarification purposes, the TSA Watch List refers to a database of individuals considered a potential travel risk. It’s not the same as the No-Fly List, which lists individuals who have been outrightly banned from traveling.
In addition, in a situation where a traveler is always listed for extra screening, it’s most likely because the TSA has wrongly identified them as a person on the TSA Watch List. So, applying for the redress program via the Department of Homeland Security Traveler Redress Inquiry will give you a better traveling experience.
How Do I Look Up My TSA PreCheck Status?
The first step is to look for your membership card. If you’re a SENTRI, Global Entry, or NEXUS program member, your TSA PreCheck status is on the back of your card. If you’ve previously enrolled in the PreCheck program before enrolling in Global Entry, you can use your PASSED.
Your PASSED is a 9-digit number that usually starts with 99, 98, or 15. Since the SENTRI, NEXUS, and Global Entry programs offer extra services that aren’t included in the TSA PreCheck program, enrolling in these programs comes with more benefits than enrolling in just PreCheck.
If you’re enrolled in Precheck, check your approval letter for your status. TSA typically sends a notification whenever an enrollment into the program is approved. This letter also contains your KTN. You’ll have to explore a second option if you don’t find this letter in your records.
The second option is to go to the Trusted Traveler Program website and scroll to the bottom of the page. Search for your TSA PreCheck status. Ensure you provide the needed information exactly how you submitted it during the application process.
How Do I Add Ny TSA PreCheck to My Boarding Pass?
First, to apply for TSA PreCheck, you’ll pay a fee, submit the necessary documents (information) for a background check, and go for a one-on-one interview. The application fee is $85, and the membership period spans five years, usually $17 per year. However, a lot of travel credit cards compensate for the application fee.
Every airline has its process of adding TSA PreCheck to your boarding pass, flyer profile, or ticket. Adding the PreCheck to your boarding pass doesn’t guarantee that the number will immediately apply to your next reservation.
Southwest Airlines
For Southwest Airlines, to add TSA PreCheck to your boarding pass, you’ll need to follow certain steps:
- Enter your PreCheck number during the booking process.
- Choose your flight dates and time, and input your name in the “Who’s Flying” column.
- Then, select “Secure Traveler’s Information” and input your PreCheck number in the “Known Traveler Number” section.
Once you do all of that accordingly, your PreCheck number will be sent alongside your other personal information to TSA’s Secure Flight System for processing and approval.
American Airlines
The simplest way to add TSA PreCheck to your boarding pass for American Airlines is to update your Advantage profile with your number. Here are the steps to follow:
- Log in to the site and sign in to your account.
- Select “information and password” and enter the necessary information.
- Then, input your PreCheck number in the “Known Traveler Number” column in the “Secure Traveler” section.
If you already have an existing reservation, to add your PreCheck to your boarding pass, you’ll need to edit each flight detail manually to input your number before checking in. If you find it difficult, you can call customer service to assist you.
Also, you can add your TSA PreCheck number to your Southwest Rapid Rewards member profile. Your information will be sent automatically to the TSA as part of the booking reservations.
Why is My TSA PreCheck Not Showing On My Boarding Pass?
There are several reasons why your TSA PreCheck may not be showing on your boarding pass:
1. You Didn’t Add Your Known Traveler Number to Your Airline Account
With your KTN, you can walk through security checkpoints without taking off your jacket, shoes, belt, etc. During the TSA PreCheck sign-up process, you’ll be issued the Known Traveler Number. This number indicates that you aren’t a threat to the lives of Americans.
When you’re issued this number, you’ll need to log in to all your airline loyalty accounts and add it to the “Secure Traveler” section of your airline accounts. When you do that, you’ll automatically be eligible to book flights through American Airlines. There’s a “TSA Pre,” on your boarding pass, which signifies your TSA PreCheck status.
Take note that you will not have access to the TSA PreCheck lane if your boarding pass doesn’t say “TSA Pre.” Even if you have membership proof (such as a NEXUS card), you will not be able to walk through the TSA PreCheck lane and show your documents to the security officer.
2. Your Identity Isn’t the Same on Your Boarding Pass
Once there’s a mistake between the name on your boarding pass and your ID, you won’t be eligible for the TSA PreCheck. For instance, if you got married recently and changed your last name, or if you forget to input your middle name when buying your ticket, the airline security algorithm will mark it as an error.
3. You Booked an Airline That isn’t Part of the TSA PreCheck
You have to take note that not all airlines are part of the TSA PreCheck program. For instance, if you’re flying to Ireland using Aer Lingus, you won’t get past the security checkpoint without being screened.
Also, when you book a flight from a non-participating airline on a participating airline, you won’t qualify for TSA PreCheck. For example, American and Iberia airlines are partnering airlines. American Airlines is part of the TSA PreCheck program, but Iberia airlines aren’t. If you book a flight for American Airlines to Iberia, they won’t recognize that you have TSA PreCheck benefits.
4. You’re Traveling with a Baby (An Infant)
In some situations, traveling with an infant may disqualify them from accessing the benefits of TSA PreCheck. There’s no need to feel worried. You’ll have to pass the necessary screening and get on board.
5. Your TSA PreCheck Membership Has Expired
TSA PreCheck membership usually lasts for five years before expiration. Most travel credit cards with TSA PreCheck require credit renewal every four years or, therefore, allowing you to renew your membership before it expires. As you know, you won’t gain access to the program’s benefits when your membership expires.
6. TSA PreCheck Lanes May Not Be Open
TSA PreCheck lanes open and close at different times, depending on the airport. If you book a flight for an odd time, you may arrive at the airport and realize there’s no manned TSA PreCheck lane.
7. You Don’t Want to Leave Your 12± Year-Old Children Behind
If you’ve enrolled in the TSA PreCheck program, but your children are of age and don’t have their membership, you’ll have to forfeit your benefits and walk through the check line with them.
Children who are 12+ years are eligible to have their own TSA PreCheck membership to pass through the lane with you. You can choose to pay the $85 application fee or apply for a TSA PreCheck credit with a credit card.
Is Global Entry Linked to Your Passport?
Global Entry isn’t linked to your passport. You need detailed biographical information when setting up your Global Entry account. In some airports, you’ll need just a valid ID and passport to check in, but in others, you’ll need your Global Entry card.
To activate your Global Entry card, log in to your Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) account. After logging in, click on the “Activate Membership Card” link below the Program Memberships section. You’ll then be asked to set up a “login.gov” account.
This account requires more of your biographical information and your Known Traveler Number (KTN) or PASSED (at the back of your card). After inputting the number, the system will verify whether the number matches other information on the record. After verification, you can activate your card using the 3-digit Security Code at the back of your card.
Is TSA PreCheck Included in Global Entry?
Yes, Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck. TSA PreCheck is an arranged form of security screening in the U.S., where members don’t need to remove their electronics from their bags or jackets from their bodies.
This process allows eligible members to pass through a standard metal detector, not a full body scan machine. They are made to undergo random full scans where they’ll be sent to the regular security checkpoint and asked to remove their shoes and laptops. So, you may not have TSA PreCheck perks just because you have a TSA PreCheck membership.
Can You Add Global Entry to TSA PreCheck?
As a TSA PreCheck holder, you can upgrade to Global Entry with a fee of $100. With this upgrade, you’ll have access to all TSA PreCheck benefits and easy access to enter the U.S. when you return from abroad.
Adding Global Entry to TSA PreCheck is very simple. All you need to do is log in to your Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) account, complete the application, and pay the fee.
If your application is approved conditionally, you’ll be instructed to schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. Take note that each applicant is expected to schedule a separate interview.
In addition, even though Global Entry includes access to TSA Precheck, it doesn’t work reciprocally. All current TSA PreCheck members must pay to upgrade to Global Entry and undergo the same application process as any other applicant.
Does Global Entry Give You a Card?
Yes. Global Entry cards are given to Global Entry members who are citizens of the United States. The application fee for the Global Entry Program is $100. The fee is non-refundable and is due at the time of application. Most of all, it applies to adults, children, and infants alike.
Some credit cards usually refund the fee for the flyer. You need to check your issuing bank and confirm whether your credit card is qualified. Note that the membership lasts for just five years and is subject to renewal (same fee of $100).
How Long Does it Take to Get a Global Entry Card?
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection website states that getting a Global Entry card takes between 6 and 8 weeks. However, in some situations, some applicants have waited more than the expected wait period. Also, the 6 to 8 weeks time frame doesn’t include the interview and application process.
The process takes as long as one year. So, it’s better to plan your proposed travel dates. You’ll need to activate the card when you’ve been issued a Global Entry card. All land border crossings require activation.
Where is a Known Traveler Number on a Global Entry Card?
The Known Traveler Number is a nine-digit code found on the back of your Global Entry card. Eligible members of TSA can also log in to their Trusted Traveler Program account to access their KTN.
The Known Traveler Number grants you access to Global Entry lanes at sea, land, and airports. For approved Global Entry members, the Known Traveler Number is the Customs and Border Protection (PASSED).
Where Can I Find My Global Entry Number Without My Card?
If you lose your Global Entry card, you can log in to your account on the Trusted Traveler Program website to find your Global Entry number.
For members who have been approved for the TSA PreCheck Program, the Global Entry number is usually nine digits long and can be a combination of letters and numbers. It mostly begins with “TT.”
Do I Need a Global Entry Card at the Airport?
Members of the Global Entry Program are eligible for the expedited airport screening when coming to or leaving the U.S. by their Global Entry card or details from it, depending on the type of entry port they’re using.
On arrival at the airport, members will most likely need to input details from their Global Entry card into a computerized customs form. Air passengers must scan their permanent residency card or machine-readable passport, provide fingerprints for identification purposes, and fill out a customs declaration form.
After that, the member is given a receipt which will prompt them to move to the inspection booth for an interview or to baggage claim.
So, if you are entering the U.S. by sea or land (especially at the Mexican or Canadian border), you’ll need the Global Entry card to finalize the processes. That’s because the card has RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology (which processes and expedites Entry).
Some seaports also process Entry and re-entry using RFID, but not all ports offer that. Therefore, it’s best to take your Global Entry card when coming into or leaving the United States at any port.
Can I Use My Global Entry Card to Fly Domestically?
Global Entry cards are valid under the new regulations, just like other forms of military ID and government-issued IDs. You can use valid passports to pass through security checkpoints for domestic flights. Some passengers still carry passports when booking international flights.
So, the Global Entry card works for both domestic and international flights. Even though it’s not so necessary to take your Global Entry card along with you to the airport, you’ll still need certain pieces of information from the card while at the customs personnel’s desk.
If you’re not with your Global Entry card and are not traveling via land or sea, log in to your Trusted Traveler Program account to access all the information you’ll need for security processing.
What Happens If I Lose My Global Entry Card?
If your Global Entry card got damaged or misplaced, you can request a new one via your Trusted Travelers Program (TTP) account.
To request a new Global Entry card:
- Log into your TTP account
- Select the “replace card” option under the Program Membership section.
- Then, select the reason for your action. Take note that you’ll have to pay a $25 replacement fee before a new card is issued and sent to the email address on your profile. For security reasons, the cards are sent via mail in plain white envelopes and are not forwarded.
However, since the physical card isn’t required at airports in the United States, you can log in to your TTP account and get the necessary details to submit at the checkpoint.
Source https://www.uponarriving.com/known-traveler-number/
Source https://theeducationaltourist.com/tsa-precheck-global-entry-known-traveler-number/
Source https://www.townandtourist.com/how-to-lookup-your-known-traveler-number/