If you’ve ever stood in a 45-minute security line at the airport thinking, “There has to be a better way,” I am here to tell you: There absolutely is.

TSA PreCheck

If you travel to Disney World, Disneyland, or pretty much anywhere more than once a year, TSA PreCheck can be a TOTAL game-changer. This airport security service offers shorter lines and fewer things you need to remove from your bags and clothes when going through a checkpoint. It’s so much easier than the regular standby line — but it comes at a price. If you’re looking to save on a TSA PreCheck membership, there are some non-TSA programs that offer this service FREE OF CHARGE!

Normally, TSA PreCheck costs between $76.75 and $85 (plus renewal fees based on the provider you selected every five years), which honestly isn’t that bad. With that said, you may already have a credit card or be part of a travel membership that gives you access to TSA PreCheck for free! Let’s break it down…

©AP

Transportation Security Administration PreCheck is a trusted traveler program that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to use expedited security lanes at hundreds of airports across the United States. Once approved, you’ll get a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that you add to your airline reservations — and then reap the benefits. The easiest way to avoid paying for this service is by having the right credit card. 

©Capital One

Many travel-focused credit cards offer a statement credit that covers the full cost of TSA PreCheck (or Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck). Typically, you get reimbursed once every 4–5 years — which (as I previously mentioned) is when you’re due for renewal. Essentially, as long as you’re a cardmember, you may never need to pay for TSA PreCheck.

Some popular cards that often offer this perk include the following:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
• The Platinum Card from American Express
• Citi Prestige Card
• United Explorer Card
• Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card

Simply apply for TSA PreCheck (or Global Entry) online and in-person, pay with your eligible credit card, and receive a statement credit covering the application fee. Of note, many of these cards have annual fees, but if you’re already a member or plan on using these travel cards to earn rewards back, those fees will pay off in the long run.

©Chase

You can also apply for Global Entry instead. U.S. Customs and Border Protection offers Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck automatically. If your credit card reimburses Global Entry (which many do), you’re essentially getting both programs for free. Global Entry is especially useful for cruises and international flights. You’ll get expedited customs entry and faster security screening.

©Global Entry

It’s also worth mentioning that if you’re active duty military or part of certain government programs, you may already have access to faster security screening benefits. Active duty U.S. military members can use their DoD ID number as their Known Traveler Number, and some federal employees may qualify through agency programs. It never hurts to check with your HR department to see if you qualify.

Magic Kingdom

Occasionally, banks and loyalty programs run promotions covering TSA PreCheck application fees. These aren’t frequent offerings, but they do pop up from time to time — especially during peak travel seasons. In the past, we’ve seen deals come from airline and hotel loyalty programs/credit cards, as well as bank account sign-up bonuses. It’s not guaranteed, but if you’re already planning to open a new card or account, keep an eye out.

TSA lines at MCO

PreCheck can save you serious time and sanity, so looking into the program — whether you’re willing to pay or not — is definitely worth your time. Do a little homework and check out DFB often for updates!

We’re always keeping up with the latest travel trends and hacks, so be sure to keep it posted right here at DFB to stay in the know!

It’s Official: A NEW TSA PreCheck Perk Is Expanding

DON'T DO IT ALONE!

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Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise.

Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you -- they've literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU! (They're DFB's recommended travel agency, and you can see why here!)

So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you 🙂

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Share your experiences with TSA PreCheck in the comments below!