Navigating airport security can be time-consuming, and it can be a frustrating part of air travel. That’s why the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) introduced TSA PreCheck to streamline that process.
While certain military members received free or discounted TSA PreCheck enrollment, a newly announced TSA PreCheck military expansion means that more members of the U.S. military community can take advantage of this valuable benefit.
What is TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck is a security screening program that makes it easier and faster for low-risk travelers to go through security. Program members don’t need to remove their shoes, belts or light jackets when moving through security. They can also leave laptops and a bag of 3.4-ounce liquids in their carry-on bags.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
New enrollments in TSA PreCheck cost $76.75 for five years. Individuals already enrolled in the program can renew their membership online for $58.75 for five years. Renewals performed in person cost $66.75 for five years.
Previously, military members and Department of Defense (DOD) civilians received free TSA PreCheck enrollment as a benefit of their service. TSA recently announced that Gold Star families will now be able to access those benefits.
What the TSA PreCheck military expansion includes
In a July 2 press release, the TSA announced the Serve with Honor initiative, which is designed to enhance travel for the U.S. military community.
"This Independence Day and beyond, TSA reaffirms its commitment to ease travel for the military community through its TSA PreCheck program by providing it free to Gold Star families, discounting it for military spouses and creating expedited lanes for service members," said TSA Acting Administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill. "By expanding access, easing enrollment, and partnering with our TSA PreCheck enrollment providers and industry partners, we strive to honor those who serve and the families who stand beside them."
Under the expansion, which is set to take place this summer, the TSA will waive the TSA PreCheck enrollment fee for Gold Star families who have lost a loved one to United States military service.
TSA will offer a $25 discount on TSA PreCheck for military and uniformed service member spouses. The discounted enrollment fee can support family members who must frequently travel to visit their spouses during their military service.
The initiative also includes the creation of dedicated screening lanes or front-of-line privileges for service members. These features are designed to create expedited access, and they will be implemented at select airports located near larger military installations.
How to access TSA PreCheck military benefits
To access TSA PreCheck military benefits, military personnel and civilian Department of Defense staff can use their DOD ID number as their Known Traveler Number. The TSA PreCheck Uniformed Service Member website has additional information on how to enroll.
TSA will also host mobile enrollment events near major U.S. military installations, which can help eligible military members and their families enroll.
Additionally, veterans and wounded warriors can receive personalized assistance through the TSA Cares program, which provides assistance during the TSA PreCheck screening process.
For example, TSA will work with a military branch to verify a wounded warrior’s status, and ensure the individual receives proper assistance at security checkpoints as they travel. Disabled service members and veterans can also request assistance when they travel.
More support for military travelers coming this summer
The TSA is expanding support and travel benefits to more members of the military community, recognizing the sacrifices of service members and their families. These new TSA PreCheck perks — including free enrollment for Gold Star families, discounts for military spouses and streamlined screening access — aim to make air travel more convenient for those who serve.
These benefits will be implemented this summer, so military members will be able to take advantage of these expanded options during the summer travel season.
Related Content
-
What to Know About New Medicaid Cuts: Is Your Local Hospital Closing Soon?Tax Policy Trump’s ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ is now law, and rural hospitals across the U.S. are on the chopping block.
-
Dividend Increases: 7 Stocks With Rising PayoutsWhile dividend growth has been slowing, certain stocks have raised their dividend payouts. These are some selections.
-
The Hated TSA Shoe Removal Rule Was Finally Phased OutAfter nearly 20 years, the TSA is ending its shoes-off policy. Travelers will still need a Real ID, and advanced screening remains in place. Here’s what to expect on your next flight.
-
Don't Miss These Under-$100 Prime Day Deals for a Smarter, Safer Home: Ring Doorbells, Nest Thermostats, Leak Detectors and MoreUse these under-$100 Prime Day deals on Ring, Blink, Nest and other top smart home brands to upgrade your home for less this summer.
-
Forget Prime Day: Top Walmart Anti-Prime Deals You Can't MissWalmart Deals runs through July 13, giving shoppers two extra days compared to Amazon Prime. Here are the best anti-Prime deals to consider.
-
48 Anti-Prime Day Tech Deals You Should Get from Best Buy's Black Friday in July Sale InsteadApple, Blink, Garmin, Samsung and more leading tech brands are on sale at Best Buy's competing Prime Day sale this week.
-
Sam's Club Takes On Amazon Prime With Big Summer Savings — But Is It Worth Joining?With longer sales and seasonal deals, Sam's Club is making a strong case for summer value. Here's how to save.
-
These Prime Day Deals Also Qualify for Disappearing Tax CreditsThere are many items for sale during Amazon Prime Day that help make your home more energy efficient and can apply towards tax credits that will expire soon.
-
California, South Florida, Long Island, New Jersey: The Places People Are Leaving in Droves in 2025Skyrocketing costs and shifting priorities mean people are packing up and leaving some cities and states in droves, while others are flocking to more affordable or lifestyle-friendly destinations.
-
Should You Start a 'Trump Account' for Your Child?"Trump Accounts" for kids is part of the One Big, Beautiful Bill that was just signed. Look at if it's worth it for your children.
