Is TSA PreCheck Missing From Your Boarding Pass? Here's What To Do

Since launching in 2013, the Transportation Security Administration's PreCheck program has enrolled more than 20 million members. The program is designed to help travelers move through security lines safely and quickly by registering as a low-risk traveler. With the program stamped on a boarding pass, members typically move through those daunting security lines in 10 minutes or less. But what happens if a boarding pass doesn't show your membership?

Firstly, don't panic. You may be in one of the US airports that don't use TSA for security screening. It is also unlikely that you've been thrown off the program unless you've committed a fraudulent act or violated any security regulations. What typically happens when TSA PreCheck does not appear on a boarding pass is that the membership has either expired or inaccurate information was used on the ticket. That could mean a name is misspelled, an incorrect birth date, or a Known Traveler Number was entered incorrectly.

The easiest fix can usually be found on your airline's website. Once signed in, you can re-enter your travel information and ensure your correct KTN is included. Once corrected, it may be possible to reprint your boarding pass with the TSA PreCheck, as long as it's not too close to your plane's scheduled boarding time. If you're already at the airport, your airline's desk agent may be able to add or correct your information and reissue your boarding pass.

The main perk of TSA PreCheck is to save time in security lines. But even if you're registered in the program, there is no guarantee that you will always have access to expedited security. There are plenty of weird reasons why TSA might decide on additional security screening, whether you're a TSA PreCheck member or not.

There are, of course, plenty of rules to keep in mind when traveling, such as what you can and can't bring with you in your carry-on. But one very important rule to remember about TSA PreCheck is that memberships are valid for five years, not for life. Every five years, memberships must be renewed. If your boarding pass is missing the perk, check that the membership hasn't expired. Most members can renew online, but it's unlikely a quick renewal will be enough to update your information for your planned flight, especially if it's the day of your trip. Some members may even be required to submit information in person at an enrollment center.

However you renew (or sign up for the first time), it's also important to check that all your personal information is correct in the system. When booking a flight, avoid typos when inputting your information, especially when typing your KTN issued by TSA. And finally, when choosing your flight, double-check that your airline of choice participates in the TSA PreCheck program. If they don't, then the status of your membership will be irrelevant for that particular flight.