The Guide to IdentoGo and TSA PreCheck
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TSA PreCheck is a valuable program that makes getting through airport security a breeze. For travelers who frequently fly domestically or out of U.S. airports, it’s a worthwhile investment. Administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the program requires travelers to submit an application along with a $78 fee.
If you’ve been researching TSA PreCheck, you may have also heard of IdentoGo, which is another option for PreCheck enrollment. If you’re wondering how IdentoGo and TSA PreCheck work together, our detailed guide will explain what you need to know so you can enjoy a more straightforward airport security screening process.
What is TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveler Program offering enrollees an expedited security screening process. When flying with a participating airline, this service is available in over 200 U.S. airports. If traveling through a participating airport, the TSA PreCheck line is separate from the general security screening line.
As part of the application process, travelers must pay an $78 fee and go through the enrollment process — including showing identification documents and providing fingerprints.
The membership is valid for five years. Once approved for the program, you’ll need to include your Known Traveler Number (or KTN) with your reservation when booking airline tickets.
Travelers with TSA PreCheck don’t have to remove their shoes, belts, carry-on liquids, light jackets or laptops when going through security, which makes for a faster and less-stressful screening process.
» Learn more: A quick guide to TSA PreCheck
What is IdentoGo TSA PreCheck?
IdentoGo is an official enrollment provider for TSA PreCheck. If you’re hoping to enroll in TSA Precheck, you can avoid completing the enrollment process at the airport by visiting an IdentoGo enrollment location. You can also renew your TSA PreCheck at these locations.
In addition to standalone enrollment centers, the company has mobile events throughout the country where travelers can stop by and complete their TSA PreCheck enrollment in an RV. This could be a convenient solution if a mobile event is held near you. It’s worth noting that mobile sites are not ADA-compliant, but many permanent IdentoGo locations are.
IdentoGo also partners with Staples, so you'll find IdentoGo enrollment centers at select Staples retail stores across the U.S. More Staples stores are set to have IdentoGo capabilities in the future.
The IdentoGo TSA PreCheck partnership can benefit travelers who may not live near their closest airport or want to avoid dealing with a busy, crowded airport. There are many IdentoGo locations throughout the U.S.
You can find the location nearest you by using the search tool on the IdentoGo website.
How IdentoGo TSA PreCheck works
If you plan to apply for TSA PreCheck and want to enroll with IdentoGo, you’ll need to take the following steps:
Pre-enroll for TSA PreCheck online.
Schedule a fingerprinting appointment at an IdentoGo enrollment center.
Show up for your appointment with identification documentation in hand.
Give your fingerprints and verify your identity.
If approved, you’ll receive a KTN, which you can include when booking airline tickets.
Completing the enrollment process at an IdentoGo enrollment center isn’t much different than what you’d experience at an airport enrollment appointment. This service simply allows you to complete your enrollment outside an airport.
» Learn more: How to get TSA PreCheck for free
How to handle TSA PreCheck renewal
Is it time to renew your TSA PreCheck membership? You can visit an IdentoGo location to renew your TSA PreCheck instead of renewing online. You’ll need to start the renewal process at least six months before your KTN expires, and you should be ready to pay the renewal fee.
How much you pay depends on how you do your renewal. If you renew in person, the fee is $78, but if you renew online, it costs $70.
Pay the TSA PreCheck fee with a travel credit card
If you have a travel credit card that offers reimbursement for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, you’ll want to use your eligible card to pay your application or renewal fee. By doing this, you can get a statement credit to your account. Using this benefit will save you money and allow you to maximize your credit card perks.
The following credit cards include reimbursement of TSA PreCheck application fees:
GENERAL TRAVEL CREDIT CARDS | ANNUAL FEE | HOW OFTEN DOES THE CREDIT RENEW? |
|---|---|---|
$95 | Every 4 years. | |
$395 | Every 4 years. | |
$95 | Every 4 years. | |
$550 | Every 4 years. | |
Citi Prestige® Card (this offer isn't currently available through NerdWallet) | $495 | Every 5 years. |
$49 | Every 4 years. | |
$95 | Every 4 years. | |
$695 | Every 4 years when used for a Global Entry application fee; every 4.5 years when used for a TSA PreCheck application fee. Terms apply (see rates and fees). | |
$0 | Every 4 years; maximum credit is $85 for either program. | |
$400 | Every 4 years. | |
AIRLINE CREDIT CARDS | ANNUAL FEE | HOW OFTEN DOES THE CREDIT RENEW? |
$95 | Every 4 years. | |
$450 | Every 5 years. | |
$250 | Every 4 years when used for a Global Entry application fee; every 4.5 years when used for a TSA PreCheck application fee. Terms apply (see rates and fees). | |
$550 | Every 4 years when used for a Global Entry application fee; every 4.5 years when used for a TSA PreCheck application fee. Terms apply (see rates and fees). | |
$0 intro for the first year, then $95 | Every 4 years. | |
$250 | Every 4 years. | |
$525 | Every 4 years. | |
HOTEL CREDIT CARDS | ANNUAL FEE | HOW OFTEN DOES THE CREDIT RENEW? |
$99 | Every 4 years. | |
$650 | Every 4 years when used for a Global Entry application fee; every 4.5 years when used for a TSA PreCheck application fee. Terms apply (see rates and fees). |
Terms apply.
If you’re deciding between TSA PreCheck versus Global Entry, we recommend choosing Global Entry. It includes TSA PreCheck perks and offers expedited entry back into the U.S. for $22 more. However, you won’t be able to complete the Global Entry enrollment process with IdentoGo. Instead, you’ll need to do so at an airport or another enrollment center.
» Learn more: TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit cards
IdentoGo and TSA PreCheck recapped
Visiting an IdentoGo enrollment center can allow you to complete the TSA PreCheck enrollment process quickly and easily. If you’re a frequent traveler, TSA PreCheck may be a worthwhile investment to save time at the airport.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for:
Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card
Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express
Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
