Here's How To Use Your TWIC Card For TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck — the Transportation Security Administration's expedited airport screening program — can save travelers precious time in the security line. To access the service, there are a handful of important TSA PreCheck requirements travelers must meet before applying. An in-person appointment and fee of approximately $78 are also part of the standard application process. However, you can bypass the usual application steps and use TSA PreCheck before your next flight if you have a TWIC card.

Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) cards are required for some personnel entering secure areas, including workers in maritime facilities and vessels. TSA is responsible for screening and conducting background checks on TWIC card applicants before issuing the credential. Because the process and requirements are similar to those needed for TSA PreCheck, TSA decided in 2020 that many TWIC cardholders can be granted TSA PreCheck benefits, even if they haven't specifically applied for the program.

To be eligible, you must have a valid and unexpired TWIC card that you obtained without needing a waiver. You must also be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or U.S. national; non-citizens with TWIC cards aren't automatically given access to TSA PreCheck screenings. Additionally, you can't use your TWIC card for PreCheck if you're currently being investigated by TSA.

As with regular TSA PreCheck users, you'll need to make sure your flight reservation contains your expedited screening credentials when booking. Otherwise, TSA PreCheck won't show up on your boarding pass. As a TWIC cardholder, however, you won't have a known traveler number (KTN) like most other travelers using the PreCheck line. Instead, enter your TWIC credential identification number (CIN) in the KTN field when reserving your trip. This number can be found on the back of your TWIC card, on the left, under the barcode. Also, be sure to use the same name and birth date on your flight reservation as is listed on your TWIC card.

Once you arrive at the airport, confirm that your boarding pass is printed with the TSA PreCheck indicator. If you don't see a checkmark or other indicator on your ticket, you won't be able to use the TSA PreCheck lane. This may be because you've been selected for additional screening, the airport doesn't currently offer PreCheck, or due to other factors unrelated to your TWIC card.

Keep in mind that TSA PreCheck isn't useful in Canada or other countries. Therefore, your TWIC card will have no bearing on your airport screenings overseas. Expect to access the PreCheck lane only when flying from or within the U.S.