What documents do children need for TSA PreCheck?

What documents do children need for TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck is a program offered by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that allows eligible travelers to experience expedited security screening at airports. While many parents may wonder if their children can also benefit from this program, it’s important to understand the documents required for children to avail of TSA PreCheck.

In order for a child to be eligible for TSA PreCheck, they must be 12 years of age or younger. Children who are 13 and above are required to apply for and obtain their own TSA PreCheck membership. However, parents or guardians who have TSA PreCheck can add their eligible children to their reservation to enjoy the benefits of expedited screening.

To ensure a smooth experience, parents or guardians must ensure that the child’s full name and date of birth is accurately provided when making the reservation. It is essential to enter these details exactly as they appear on the child’s passport, birth certificate, or other accepted forms of identification.

FAQs about documents needed for children’s TSA PreCheck:

1. Can a child travel with just a birth certificate?

It is recommended to have a passport for all air travel, including domestic flights, as it is the most universally accepted form of identification. However, children under the age of 18 can also travel with just a birth certificate as an alternate form of identification, particularly when flying within the United States. It is important to note that birth certificates are not accepted for international travel.

2. What are the accepted forms of identification for children?

Children traveling within the United States can use a variety of accepted forms of identification, including a passport, birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, naturalization certificate, or a TSA-approved trusted traveler program card, such as a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry card.

3. Do children need their own TSA PreCheck membership?

Children who are 12 years of age or younger do not need their own TSA PreCheck membership. They can be included on their parent or guardian’s reservation and benefit from expedited screening. It is important to ensure that the child’s full name and date of birth matches the details on their identification documents.

4. Can I add my child to my TSA PreCheck membership?

Yes, parents or guardians with TSA PreCheck can add their eligible children to their reservation and enjoy the benefits of expedited screening together. This saves time and ensures that the entire family can enjoy a smoother airport experience.

5. Can children experience expedited screening if flying alone?

Yes, children who are 12 years of age or younger and traveling alone can still benefit from expedited screening if their parent or guardian has TSA PreCheck. It is important to adhere to the airline’s specific unaccompanied minor policies and procedures when making arrangements for a child traveling alone.

6. Can children use their school ID for TSA PreCheck?

School IDs are not accepted as a form of identification for TSA PreCheck. The accepted forms of identification for children include a passport, birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, naturalization certificate, or a TSA-approved trusted traveler program card.

7. How long does it take to get TSA PreCheck for a child?

Since children who are 12 years of age or younger can be included on their parent or guardian’s TSA PreCheck reservation, they do not need to apply separately. The time it takes to obtain TSA PreCheck for the parent or guardian will be the determining factor.

8. Can children still go through regular screening if they don’t have TSA PreCheck?

Yes, children who do not have TSA PreCheck can still go through regular screening procedures at the airport. TSA PreCheck is an optional program that provides expedited screening, but it is not mandatory for all travelers.

9. Can a child use a driver’s license for TSA PreCheck?

Children under the age of 16 typically do not have a driver’s license. However, if they have obtained a driver’s license at a younger age, it is not a valid form of identification for TSA PreCheck. Accepted forms of identification include a passport, birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, naturalization certificate, or a TSA-approved trusted traveler program card.

10. Can I add my child to my TSA PreCheck membership for free?

Yes, adding an eligible child to a parent or guardian’s TSA PreCheck membership is typically free of charge. However, it is important to check the specific guidelines and procedures of the TSA and the trusted traveler program to ensure there are no additional fees or requirements.

11. Can a child use a military ID for TSA PreCheck?

If a child has a military ID, it can be used as a valid form of identification for TSA PreCheck. Military IDs are recognized and accepted by the TSA as a trusted form of identification.

12. Can children use a valid visa for TSA PreCheck?

Yes, children who have a valid visa can use it as a form of identification for TSA PreCheck. It is important to ensure that the visa is current and valid for travel purposes.

By understanding the required documents for children to avail of TSA PreCheck, parents can help ensure a smoother and more efficient airport experience for their entire family. It is recommended to review the TSA’s guidelines and requirements prior to travel to ensure full compliance and a hassle-free journey.