Is TSA PreCheck Worth It in 2026?

TSA PreCheck, launched in December 2013, continues to offer a dedicated security lane at over 200 U.S. airports. It processes about 34 percent of all screened travelers, and it is available in almost every airport you will visit, even if not the smallest regional hubs.

The biggest benefit of TSA PreCheck today is the decreased wait time. TSA reports that 98 percent of PreCheck travelers wait 10 minutes or less. That is a significant difference compared to the average 30 minutes or more in the regular line.

This consistency and predictability can really make a difference, especially during busy travel seasons or if you are prone to stress from long, unpredictable queues. Beyond the shorter lines, PreCheck still has some great advantages that some people would love.

Should you use TSA PreCheck in 2026?

You should definitely always precheck. If you fly regularly, even just once a year, the five-year validity makes the per-trip cost very low. It is particularly helpful for families who want a smoother airport experience, business travelers who value efficiency, and anyone who struggles with long periods of standing or the stress of unpredictable lines.

If forgetfulness is an issue, keeping items in your bag means less hassle and fewer lost items. Anyone using PreCheck can keep light jackets and belts on, which makes the whole process feel much smoother. You also do not need to pull out your electronics, like laptops, or your clear quart-size bag of liquids from your carry-on for separate scanning. We all know TSA can see everything anyway.

TSA PreCheck also often introduces new screening innovations through its lanes first. For example, touchless ID lanes that use facial recognition for faster identity verification are already available in 10 locations and growing. This gives PreCheck members early access to technologies that streamline the airport experience even further. Make sure you have a ticket that has not been cancelled, or you may deal with trouble.

The cost for TSA PreCheck is between $77 and $85, depending on the enrollment provider, and it covers five years of service. That works out to be well under $20 per year. Children 12 and younger can join their parents in the PreCheck line at no extra cost. Teenagers aged 13-17 can also accompany parents or guardians when traveling on the same reservation, as long as the PreCheck indicator appears on their boarding pass.

For active U.S. military personnel, it is completely free with a valid Department of Defense ID number. Gold Star family members also get free PreCheck. There is even a “buy one, get one for $15” offer for families.

Many travel credit cards offer to cover the cost of Global Entry or TSA PreCheck as a cardholder benefit. Global Entry itself costs $120 and includes PreCheck, plus expedited customs processing for international travel. If you have a credit card that offers this reimbursement, it is definitely a no-brainer to apply.