Is TSA PreCheck Still Worth It Even As More And More Travelers Get It?

According to a 2024 National Press Release, 20 million active members are enrolled in TSA PreCheck. Since the program first launched in December 2013, the number of travelers signing up for it has only continued to grow — especially in recent years — and some people are wondering whether the program still offers the same convenience it once did. With increasing popularity, is TSA PreCheck still worth the investment, or are travelers finding themselves in longer lines just like those in standard security? We reached out to Victoria Fricke, owner of Vic's Vacations luxury travel agency, for some exclusive insight, and the answer is a resounding and unequivocal "Yes." 

"While more and more travelers are registering for TSA PreCheck, there are still so many who don't have it," says Fricke. The population of the United States is nearly 350 million people — only around 5% have TSA PreCheck. Even as its popularity has increased and more travelers opt into the program, airports continue to prioritize keeping the PreCheck lines moving quickly and efficiently, more so than the regular lines.

Fricke shares an example from her local airport in Indianapolis; one terminal only has regular security lines, while the other offers both standard and PreCheck lines. "On days where the PreCheck line is longer, they open more of those lanes to accommodate the PreCheck passengers, making the majority of the lines PreCheck ensuring that [the] line is faster," she explains. Still, it's always a good idea to check if the airport you're heading to will have TSA PreCheck lanes open beforehand.

But for Victoria Fricke, the time saved isn't the only reason to sign up for PreCheck. "Even if my time to wait is the same as a standard line, I'm far less annoyed going through the process," she says. "One of the big perks of PreCheck, in my opinion, is not having to remove your shoes and keeping your electronics in your bag." This streamlined process means less hassle — not to mention a traveling game-changer for families with a baby — even if you're standing in line for the same amount of time as non-PreCheck passengers.

However, with more and more travelers using TSA PreCheck, it's natural to wonder if the program could eventually become as crowded as standard security lines. According to Fricke, it's possible, but the benefits still trump any potential drawbacks. "It's possible lines and wait times [will] go up for PreCheck," she says, "but the pros outweigh the cons." The convenience factor alone is a major reason why the program remains valuable. For only $16 a year, travelers can significantly reduce the hassle of airport security.

If you're a frequent flier, business traveler, or someone who wants to save time and stress (let's be real, that's all of us), TSA PreCheck makes sense. Considering that a membership costs between $78 and $85 total for five whole years (depending on the provider) and many people are qualified for a little-known credit card perk that could save them even more money, it's financially a no-brainer. Plus, "More times than not, that line is going to be shorter, though!" adds Fricke.

Beyond the convenience of quicker lines and keeping your shoes on, TSA PreCheck offers another perk: Avoiding the stress of being stuck in line with novice travelers. "Whether the system becomes overly crowded or not, stress and frustrations of being surrounded by novice travelers in security is something you can avoid," reassures Victoria Fricke. Anyone who's ever waited behind someone struggling to unpack their overstuffed carry-on or trying to remember the rules about liquids knows how frustrating it can be — PreCheck helps you bypass much of that. "Those who aren't aware of TSA rules and requirements will be in another line," she says. 

However, even though TSA PreCheck does improve the (often unbearable) airport security experience, long lines aren't completely avoidable — especially during peak travel times. "Unfortunately, lines and waiting are part of the travel game," explains Fricke. Moreover, even if someone is TSA PreCheck eligible, according to the TSA's official website, they're not always guaranteed an expedited screening process.

"There's no way to fully avoid lines unless you're flying private. So unless you're in that club, I'd suggest traveling mid-week, avoiding the weekend leisure and business Monday crowds, and avoiding holiday travel," she recommends. Planning your travels during quiet times of the month and the year can help ensure a smoother experience. So, is TSA PreCheck still worth it even as more and more travelers get it? "YES! Unequivocally, yes." If you're on the fence, take the tips from Victoria Fricke as a sign; now might be a great time to join.