how long is tsa precheck good for

TSA PreCheck is generally valid for 5 years from the date you’re approved, and then you need to renew it to keep using the fast security lanes.

Quick Scoop

• TSA PreCheck membership is good for 5 years before it expires.

• After 5 years, your PreCheck indicator will disappear from your boarding passes unless you renew.

• You can usually start renewal up to 6 months before the expiration date, and renewing early doesn’t shorten your next 5‑year term.

• The renewal is done online in most cases and typically only takes a few minutes to submit, though processing can take days to weeks.

How long is TSA PreCheck good for?

In most situations, TSA PreCheck membership lasts 5 years from your approval date.

After that, you must renew if you want to keep the benefits (shorter security lines, keeping shoes and light jackets on, etc.).

There are a few edge cases: travelers whose status depends on immigration or a linked “trusted traveler” program (like Global Entry) could see different timing, but the typical answer for U.S. travelers is still 5 years.

Think of it like a 5‑year “fast lane pass” for airport security: once those 5 years are up, the pass stops working unless you renew it.

When and how do you renew?

Most travelers can renew completely online by going to the TSA PreCheck site and submitting a renewal application with their Known Traveler Number and personal details.

Key timing points:

1. You can usually renew as early as 6 months before your expiration date.

2. TSA suggests renewing at least 60 days before expiration to avoid a gap in benefits.

3. Processing can be as quick as a few days, but sometimes takes a few weeks, especially during busy travel seasons.

Your new 5‑year period starts when the current one ends, so renewing early doesn’t “waste” any time.

How do you know when yours expires?

• Log into your TSA or trusted traveler account to see your membership status and expiration date.

• Your Known Traveler Number (KTN) details will show the valid‑through date for your membership.

• Many travelers also receive reminder emails ahead of the expiration date so they have time to renew.

Simple real‑world example

You’re approved for TSA PreCheck on June 1, 2024.

• Your membership will be good until around June 1, 2029 (5 years).

• Sometime in late 2028 , you’ll start getting reminders and can jump online to renew so your fast‑lane privileges never lapse.

TL;DR: TSA PreCheck is good for 5 years, and you can renew online starting about 6 months before it expires so you don’t lose your speedy security perks.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.