Skip the line: Get TSA PreCheck before holiday travel

Tuesday, November 29, 2016
How to get TSA PreCheck before the holidays
Looking to skip the line at the airport? Find out how to get TSA PreCheck in time for your holiday travel.

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Nobody likes waiting in long security lines when they're trying to hop on a flight, but it's always worse during the holiday season. Good news: it's not too late to get TSA PreCheck ahead of holiday travel.

TSA PreCheck is a five-year membership that costs $85 and gets travelers through security without removing shoes, laptops, liquids, belts or light jackets.

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To get TSA PreCheck, it's most convenient to apply online at TSA.gov/precheck. After filling out an application, you'll schedule an appointment at an enrollment center to be finger-printed.

In Houston, there are five centers, including one in Bush Airport at Terminal C and one at Hobby Airport. There are also locations in La Marque, Deer Park and Freeport.

For most travelers, you'll need your passport with your legal name, or your birth certificate and driver's license together. After you're approved, you'll get your known traveler number (or KTN) and you can contact your airline to add your KTN to your profile and current reservations.