Nov 22, 2012, 3:26 am
Last edit by: rustykettel
PreCheck FAQ:
What is PreCheck?
TSA Pre✓™ allows select frequent flyers of participating airlines, members of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Trusted Traveler programs, or randomly selected passengers to receive expedited screening benefits during domestic travel. Eligible participants use dedicated screening lanes for screening benefits which include leaving on shoes, light outerwear and belts, as well as leaving laptops and 3-1-1 compliant liquids in carry-on bags. (from http://www.tsa.gov/tsa-pre%E2%9C%93%E2%84%A2)
What do I need to do to enroll in PreCheck?
There are two ways to enroll in PreCheck:
1. Be invited by Alaska Airlines, or
2. Sign up for a Trusted Traveler program
At this time, Alaska appears to have only invited a limited number of MVP Gold and MVP Gold 75K flyers to use PreCheck. Anyone can sign up for a Trusted Traveler program, though.
See the Alaska Airlines PreCheck FAQ page for good, detailed information on how to ensure you are set to receive PreCheck benefits.
If you are relying on a Trusted Traveler program membership to grant PreCheck access, be sure your name in your "Personal Information" in your "Traveler Profile" (as specified in the link above) is an exact match with what is displayed in your online GOES profile. If it is not, then either contact Alaska to have your profile's name edited, or be sure to edit your SecureFlight data each time you book a new reservation so that your name is an exact match with your GOES profile. A mismatch is very likely to prevent you from being selected for PreCheck.
It is also possible that you have been randomly selected for PreCheck.
If you are randomly selected, you'll see the PreCheck logo displayed on your paper or mobile boarding pass. You'll have all the benefits of PreCheck status for that flight and can use the PreCheck lane in your city of departure.
Should I opt-in with AS or sign up for a Trusted Traveler program?
Opting in with AS is free.
The Trusted Traveler programs have an associated membership fee and interview process but grant additional benefits for international travelers Global Entry is $100 for a five-year membership, requires an interview at one of several enrollment centers across the US, and allows expedited re-entry into the U.S. NEXUS is $50 for a five-year membership, includes a complimentary Global Entry membership, requires an interview at one of a handful of selected enrollment centers near the Canadian border, and allows access to expedited lanes when crossing into Canada or the U.S. at a land crossing. SENTRI is similar to NEXUS but works for the Mexican border instead. Once you receive your approval letter, the numbers on the letter are your TSA PreCheck number. When scheduling your interview, it does not have to be the nearest center - so keep this in mind and consider your travels.
Reports are that those using a Trusted Traveler membership program tend to have higher PreCheck selection rates than those who simply opt in through AS. It's possible that elites who have opted in and provide a Known Traveler program number have the highest selection rates of all, although no method guarantees 100% selection for PreCheck.
How to Add Your PASSID to Existing Reservations
If you receive approval for PreCheck via Global Entry, Nexus or another Trusted Traveler program you will receive a card which (typically on the back) contains a PASSID number. For already existing AS reservations, go to the "My Trips" section of the Alaska website. Under each reservation, go to the "Traveler Information" section. On the right side is "Traveler Documentation." Click on the "Enter Required Documentation" link and select the traveler on the itinerary (if there is more than one traveler). Click the "Continue" button and then click on the "Enter Known Traveler/Redress Number" link. In the box for "Known Traveler Number" enter the PASSID that has been assigned. Click the "Continue" button and repeat as necessary until all the existing reservations have been populated with the PASSID.
What airports does AS participate in PreCheck?
See the map on TSA's site or download the PDF guide from TSA's site. Also note, though, if:
a) You are flying on AS, and
b) You have opted in to PreCheck, and
c) the airport has a PreCheck checkpoint (shown on the map or PDF), and
d) TSA doesn't randomly decide to deny you (hopefully not),
then (assuming you qualify for and have opted in to PreCheck) you will receive a PreCheck-enabled BP. Unless the PreCheck checkpoint leads to a concourse that is not attached to the concourse containing your departure gate, you can use PreCheck at that airport. It does not matter if TSA's map or PDF guide do not specify that Alaska participates at that particular airport.
Some airports have a version of PreCheck referred to as "PreCheck Lite." Those airports (either due to space or staffing limitations) modify the benefits of PreCheck --- you may need to remove your laptop and/or remove your liquids. Keep an eye out for signage in the PreCheck lane to see if modifications have been made to PreCheck at your departure airport. You may be able to leave your shoes on (unless they have metal shanks that will alarm) and you may be able to leave light coats and sweaters on.
Here is a list of airports and checkpoint locations confirmed by FlyerTalkers to work for AS flyers:
Others listed on TSA's site as PreCheck airports but that FlyerTalkers have not verified. If you are familiar with any of these, please edit this wiki and move them to the above category!
-IAH (terminal C south)
-LIH (main terminal)
-MSP (checkpoint 4)
Links to other PreCheck-related threads on FlyerTalk
Airports with no Pre whatsoever:
GST
What is PreCheck?
TSA Pre✓™ allows select frequent flyers of participating airlines, members of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Trusted Traveler programs, or randomly selected passengers to receive expedited screening benefits during domestic travel. Eligible participants use dedicated screening lanes for screening benefits which include leaving on shoes, light outerwear and belts, as well as leaving laptops and 3-1-1 compliant liquids in carry-on bags. (from http://www.tsa.gov/tsa-pre%E2%9C%93%E2%84%A2)
What do I need to do to enroll in PreCheck?
There are two ways to enroll in PreCheck:
1. Be invited by Alaska Airlines, or
2. Sign up for a Trusted Traveler program
At this time, Alaska appears to have only invited a limited number of MVP Gold and MVP Gold 75K flyers to use PreCheck. Anyone can sign up for a Trusted Traveler program, though.
See the Alaska Airlines PreCheck FAQ page for good, detailed information on how to ensure you are set to receive PreCheck benefits.
If you are relying on a Trusted Traveler program membership to grant PreCheck access, be sure your name in your "Personal Information" in your "Traveler Profile" (as specified in the link above) is an exact match with what is displayed in your online GOES profile. If it is not, then either contact Alaska to have your profile's name edited, or be sure to edit your SecureFlight data each time you book a new reservation so that your name is an exact match with your GOES profile. A mismatch is very likely to prevent you from being selected for PreCheck.
It is also possible that you have been randomly selected for PreCheck.
If you are randomly selected, you'll see the PreCheck logo displayed on your paper or mobile boarding pass. You'll have all the benefits of PreCheck status for that flight and can use the PreCheck lane in your city of departure.
Should I opt-in with AS or sign up for a Trusted Traveler program?
Opting in with AS is free.
The Trusted Traveler programs have an associated membership fee and interview process but grant additional benefits for international travelers Global Entry is $100 for a five-year membership, requires an interview at one of several enrollment centers across the US, and allows expedited re-entry into the U.S. NEXUS is $50 for a five-year membership, includes a complimentary Global Entry membership, requires an interview at one of a handful of selected enrollment centers near the Canadian border, and allows access to expedited lanes when crossing into Canada or the U.S. at a land crossing. SENTRI is similar to NEXUS but works for the Mexican border instead. Once you receive your approval letter, the numbers on the letter are your TSA PreCheck number. When scheduling your interview, it does not have to be the nearest center - so keep this in mind and consider your travels.
Reports are that those using a Trusted Traveler membership program tend to have higher PreCheck selection rates than those who simply opt in through AS. It's possible that elites who have opted in and provide a Known Traveler program number have the highest selection rates of all, although no method guarantees 100% selection for PreCheck.
How to Add Your PASSID to Existing Reservations
If you receive approval for PreCheck via Global Entry, Nexus or another Trusted Traveler program you will receive a card which (typically on the back) contains a PASSID number. For already existing AS reservations, go to the "My Trips" section of the Alaska website. Under each reservation, go to the "Traveler Information" section. On the right side is "Traveler Documentation." Click on the "Enter Required Documentation" link and select the traveler on the itinerary (if there is more than one traveler). Click the "Continue" button and then click on the "Enter Known Traveler/Redress Number" link. In the box for "Known Traveler Number" enter the PASSID that has been assigned. Click the "Continue" button and repeat as necessary until all the existing reservations have been populated with the PASSID.
What airports does AS participate in PreCheck?
See the map on TSA's site or download the PDF guide from TSA's site. Also note, though, if:
a) You are flying on AS, and
b) You have opted in to PreCheck, and
c) the airport has a PreCheck checkpoint (shown on the map or PDF), and
d) TSA doesn't randomly decide to deny you (hopefully not),
then (assuming you qualify for and have opted in to PreCheck) you will receive a PreCheck-enabled BP. Unless the PreCheck checkpoint leads to a concourse that is not attached to the concourse containing your departure gate, you can use PreCheck at that airport. It does not matter if TSA's map or PDF guide do not specify that Alaska participates at that particular airport.
Some airports have a version of PreCheck referred to as "PreCheck Lite." Those airports (either due to space or staffing limitations) modify the benefits of PreCheck --- you may need to remove your laptop and/or remove your liquids. Keep an eye out for signage in the PreCheck lane to see if modifications have been made to PreCheck at your departure airport. You may be able to leave your shoes on (unless they have metal shanks that will alarm) and you may be able to leave light coats and sweaters on.
Here is a list of airports and checkpoint locations confirmed by FlyerTalkers to work for AS flyers:
- ANC (main [B/C] checkpoint)
- ATL (south checkpoint)
- AUS (central checkpoint to the left of the AS check-in counter)
- BLI (see post 1450 re removal of liquids)
- BNA (north checkpoint for concourses A/B)
- BOI (all passengers use one checkpoint)
- BOS (The C40-C42 area that AS now uses only has PreCheck Lite)
- BWI (C checkpoint, although A checkpoint also has it and it operates consistently throughout the day)
- BZN (single checkpoint, right side)
- DCA (south pier)
- DEN (both north and south checkpoints)
- DFW (Terminal E, near gate E15)
- EAT (PreCheck Lite at the only checkpoint)
- EUG (PreCheck Lite only)
- EWR (Terminal A3) Confirmed full-scale PreCheck, at least for the morning flight
- FAI (PreCheck Lite only)
- FLL (terminal 1, concourse C--open late afternoon to accommodate AS #33)
- GEG (Terminal C, left side of existing checkpoint, sporadic hours - see post 1403 for times)
- HNL (checkpoint 5-between Delta and United, lobbies 7 and 8)
- JNU (common upstairs checkpoint) PreCheck Lite.
- KOA Gate 7 - (AS) PreCheck Lite for the 11:55PM Redeye. Also had PreCheck Lite for the 3:00 ish flight to OAK.
- LAS (Terminal 3 (AS) next to F/elite line, Terminal 1 (AA/DL))
- LAX (T6 [where Alaska departs from]; it is also possible to use the PreCheck checkpoint in T4 [American], T5 [Delta], or T7 [United]; all are connected behind security)
- MCI (PreCheck Lite)
- MCO (Far side of terminal away from AS baggage claim/checkin counters)
- MFR (only one checkpoint in airport) PreCheck Lite. (Note: checkpoint completely closes at certain hours of the day. Very small airport.)
- MRY (PreCheck Lite)
- MSY (Concourse C)
- OAK (far right side, along exit pathway, well signed)
- OGG (right side as walking from AS check-in area)
- ORD (terminal 3, checkpoint 8)
- PDX (A/B/C checkpoint; PreCheck lane closes in evening, can use D/E PreCheck lane and airside walkway connector back to A/B/C)
- PHL (D/E checkpoint has TSA Pre✓; Pre✓ also typically available at B [far side of AA counters from AS gates] but not C [near side of AA counters]; all of PHL is connected behind security)
- PHX (First class TSA entrance in Terminal 2 is now for precheck and first)
- PSC (PreCheck Lite available at the central, and only, checkpoint)
- PSP (Left side of the TSA entry point. Note, they also send a lot of wheelchairs through there, so not always faster than the premium line.)
- RDU (Terminal 2)
- SAN (Terminal 1, far left lane)
- SEA (south checkpoint 2, central checkpoint 3 [the one leading to the central food court] and north checkpoint 5)
- SFO (International Terminal, A pier): enter at the center, the line dragon will point you to a separate line to the left if you have PreCheck on your boarding pass. Normal PreCheck.
- SIT (Central checkpoint, Gate 1: PreCheck Lite)
- SJC (terminal B)
- SLC (use Terminal 2 checkpoint, All connected airside)
- SMF (far left, terminals A and B)
- SNA (terminal 1, lane 1)
- STL (Alaska Terminal & Checkpoint, Right side)
- TPA (Airside A)
Others listed on TSA's site as PreCheck airports but that FlyerTalkers have not verified. If you are familiar with any of these, please edit this wiki and move them to the above category!
-IAH (terminal C south)
-LIH (main terminal)
-MSP (checkpoint 4)
Links to other PreCheck-related threads on FlyerTalk
- The United PreCheck Thread (the most extensive wiki and discussion on the topic)
- The Delta PreCheck Thread
- The AA PreCheck Thread
- Questions about Global Entry are best served in the Practical Travel Safety Issues forum
- The Air Canada NEXUS thread
Airports with no Pre whatsoever:
GST
TSA Pre✓™ (PreCheck) on Alaska Airlines - Questions and Experiences (2012-21)
Jan 23, 2012, 3:08 pm
#17
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: Upper Left Corner of the Map
Programs: AS MVPG & Board Room, Marriott Silver, Global Entry
Posts: 2,203
Don't know if interview is required, but certainly isn't going to be any more cumbersome than the "interview" for Global Entry. I got my email this afternoon and have registered.
Jan 23, 2012, 3:40 pm
#18
Ambassador: Alaska Airlines
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: Seattle
Programs: AS MVP Gold
Posts: 2,732
Perhaps most importantly, how do TSA agents treat you? Better/worse?
Jan 23, 2012, 3:45 pm
#19
Join Date: Jan 2008
Location: SEA
Programs: DL DM, AS MVP, Marriott Plat, SPG Plat
Posts: 237
Can you provide a quick summary of what to expect when the program is operational? Do you really get to avoid the hassle factor (no removing laptops/liquids/shoes)? Do you still go through the WTMD? Are lines consistently shorter?
Perhaps most importantly, how do TSA agents treat you? Better/worse?
Perhaps most importantly, how do TSA agents treat you? Better/worse?
Took me maybe 1-2 minutes from the time I was in the Pre line to me having my bags and on my way. Regular elite line was probably 10-20 min. TSA agents are the most courteous I have ever seen and are also super excited about the program.
Jan 23, 2012, 5:29 pm
#22
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: SEA
Programs: AS MVPG, Bonvoy Titanium, NEXUS
Posts: 174
Got my invite too- since I currently do NOT participate in any of the other programs mentioned, will I have opportunity to enroll in one of them as part of this? Or should I hurry up and try to sign up for NEXUS (which I had planned to do anyway)?
I did go to the link and put my number in.
I did go to the link and put my number in.
Jan 23, 2012, 7:30 pm
#26
Join Date: Jan 2008
Location: SEA
Programs: DL DM, AS MVP, Marriott Plat, SPG Plat
Posts: 237
Jan 23, 2012, 7:47 pm
#27
Join Date: Dec 2010
Location: MCI
Programs: DL PM, AS 75K, Aeroplan, Hyatt GP, SPG, National EE, Marriott PE
Posts: 14
Found on the TSA Pre✓™ Q&A...
Q. What do participants need to do?
A. Members of a CBP Trusted Traveler program are assigned a membership number, or PASS ID, as part of their Trusted Traveler program. To participate in the TSA Pre✓™ pilot these passengers must place their PASS ID in the ‘Known Traveler Number’ field while booking their reservation. That number is then passed to TSA’s Secure Flight system and taken into consideration during the pre-screening processing. For more information about Secure Flight, click here.
Participating airlines will permit some of their frequent flyers, based on TSA criteria, to opt-in through the airline’s system. Participating airlines have contacted eligible frequent flyers with an invitation to opt-in. Once the passenger opts in, the airline identifies the individual as a participant when submitting the passenger reservation information to TSA’s Secure Flight system.
...Ive never been prompted for a 'Known Traveler Number' When booking air on AS or it's partners. Has anyone else?
Q. What do participants need to do?
A. Members of a CBP Trusted Traveler program are assigned a membership number, or PASS ID, as part of their Trusted Traveler program. To participate in the TSA Pre✓™ pilot these passengers must place their PASS ID in the ‘Known Traveler Number’ field while booking their reservation. That number is then passed to TSA’s Secure Flight system and taken into consideration during the pre-screening processing. For more information about Secure Flight, click here.
Participating airlines will permit some of their frequent flyers, based on TSA criteria, to opt-in through the airline’s system. Participating airlines have contacted eligible frequent flyers with an invitation to opt-in. Once the passenger opts in, the airline identifies the individual as a participant when submitting the passenger reservation information to TSA’s Secure Flight system.
...Ive never been prompted for a 'Known Traveler Number' When booking air on AS or it's partners. Has anyone else?
Jan 23, 2012, 10:13 pm
#28
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Seattle, WA
Posts: 328
Found on the TSA Pre✓™ Q&A...
Q. What do participants need to do?
A. Members of a CBP Trusted Traveler program are assigned a membership number, or PASS ID, as part of their Trusted Traveler program. To participate in the TSA Pre✓™ pilot these passengers must place their PASS ID in the ‘Known Traveler Number’ field while booking their reservation. That number is then passed to TSA’s Secure Flight system and taken into consideration during the pre-screening processing. For more information about Secure Flight, click here.
Participating airlines will permit some of their frequent flyers, based on TSA criteria, to opt-in through the airline’s system. Participating airlines have contacted eligible frequent flyers with an invitation to opt-in. Once the passenger opts in, the airline identifies the individual as a participant when submitting the passenger reservation information to TSA’s Secure Flight system.
...Ive never been prompted for a 'Known Traveler Number' When booking air on AS or it's partners. Has anyone else?
Q. What do participants need to do?
A. Members of a CBP Trusted Traveler program are assigned a membership number, or PASS ID, as part of their Trusted Traveler program. To participate in the TSA Pre✓™ pilot these passengers must place their PASS ID in the ‘Known Traveler Number’ field while booking their reservation. That number is then passed to TSA’s Secure Flight system and taken into consideration during the pre-screening processing. For more information about Secure Flight, click here.
Participating airlines will permit some of their frequent flyers, based on TSA criteria, to opt-in through the airline’s system. Participating airlines have contacted eligible frequent flyers with an invitation to opt-in. Once the passenger opts in, the airline identifies the individual as a participant when submitting the passenger reservation information to TSA’s Secure Flight system.
...Ive never been prompted for a 'Known Traveler Number' When booking air on AS or it's partners. Has anyone else?
Almost never wait more than 5-7 minutes at security for the elite line on the north end of SEA, but if this speeds even that up, I'm all for it. "Opted in" for it this morning...
Jan 23, 2012, 10:28 pm
#29
Ambassador: Alaska Airlines
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: Seattle
Programs: AS MVP Gold
Posts: 2,732
Jan 23, 2012, 10:33 pm
#30
Join Date: Jun 2005
Programs: AS MVPG
Posts: 2,206