What Is Touchless TSA PreCheck, and How to Get It

Recently, the TSA announced its enforcement of traveling with a REAL ID. Now, we are beginning to see some major airports around the country opt into the new TSA PreCheck Touchless ID. If you have Global Entry, you’ll be familiar with the process. Here’s everything you need to know about the new TSA PreCheck Touchless ID so you can have a smooth travel day. 

What is TSA PreCheck Touchless ID?

TSA PreCheck Touchless ID is a new, enhanced security screening process that uses facial recognition technology to speed up and make security screening more efficient at the airport. It's free for travelers who already have TSA PreCheck; you just need to opt into the program.

This is available to travelers who have enrolled in the program and are flying with participating airlines. Not all airlines participate in TSA PreCheck Touchless ID (yet). Visit the TSA website to see a full list of airlines that participate in TSA PreCheck. Just keep in mind that this list is separate from TSA PreCheck Touchless ID.

How do I participate in TSA PreCheck Touchless ID?

First, check to ensure you meet the requirements:

• Active airline profile with a participating airline
• Current TSA PreCheck traveler
• Valid passport information in your airline profile

Once you’ve met the requirements, you can update your airline profile:

• Enter your Known Traveler Number (KTN)
• Valid passport number and country
• Select “OPT IN” on your profile (or at airline check-in)

Your boarding pass will have a TSA PreCheck Touchless ID indicator if everything goes smoothly. If you already have TSA PreCheck, enrollment is free. You can always sign up for TSA PreCheck through the TSA website. 

What Airlines/Airports are TSA PreCheck Touchless ID Available?

American Airlines, Delta, United, and Alaska are the four major airlines currently enrolled in the program at the following airports:

• American: ATL, DCA, SEA, SLC, LGA
• Delta: ATL, DCA, DTW, JFK, LAZ, LGA, SEA, SLC
• United: ATL, DCA, EWR, LAS, LAX, LGA, ORD, SEA, SFO, SLC
• Alaska: ATL, DCA, SEA

Remember, you should still bring physical IDs that are REAL ID-compliant with you to the airport. If, for some reason, the digital ID cannot be verified at the TSA security checkpoint, passengers are still expected to show a physical ID. 

Watch this official video from the TSA regarding TSA PreCheck Touchless ID:

These days, I seem to always find myself at a busy airport where it feels like everyone has TSA PreCheck. In those scenarios, if everyone has TSA PreCheck, then no one does. If your home airport is one of the airports that have enlisted in the program, and you already have TSA PreCheck, I think it’s worth signing up for. It will get you through the line quickly and efficiently! Regretfully, my home airport is not on the list, yet, so I will likely wait until MSY joins the party. I do have Global Entry, and I must say, coming through passport control with a touchless system makes it a breeze, and I feel like a rockstar every time I come back into the country. Hopefully, more airports (and airlines) around the country will join the program.

Will you be enrolling in TSA PreCheck Touchless ID? Share this article with your fellow travelers! If you’re considering signing up for TSA Precheck, enroll today.