Question: Regarding TSA Precheck, there was an interesting story in the paper about it last week, but it didn’t explain how a Hawaii resident actually applies to be included. That’s what I would like to know.
Answer: The Associated Press story published April 3 took a national look at the Transportation Security Administration’s Precheck program, which allows pre-screened passengers to pass through airport security checkpoints more quickly. Four years after its launch, the program has not enrolled enough paying members to make much of a dent in long security lines at many American airports, according to the story.
TSA Precheck is open to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals and lawful permanent residents, according to the TSA. It is recommended for passengers who fly primarily within the United States. (There are other Trusted Traveler programs for global travelers.)
The enrollment process includes a background check, fingerprinting and payment of $85 for a five-year membership. You can start an application online but must appear in person to finalize it. There are enrollment centers on Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island; the newest, opened in November, is in Honolulu Airport’s interisland terminal.
You can get started on the application at tsa.gov/tsa-precheck/apply and use that site to schedule your appointment to finish up in person, or you may complete the entire application in person. Call 855-347-8371 to schedule an appointment; listen for prompts that guide you to TSA Precheck.
However you proceed, you’ll need to verify your identity, confirm citizenship and immigration status, and supply fingerprints. Bring your U.S. passport or U.S. driver’s license and birth certificate to the appointment.
It takes two to three weeks to process a completed application, according to the TSA. Applicants may be rejected for supplying incomplete or false information, or because they have committed certain crimes or violated transportation security rules.
If you are approved, you’ll be issued a Known Traveler Number (KTN) to use when booking airline tickets with participating U.S. airlines; the name on the ticket must match the name on the TSA Precheck membership. The TSA Precheck logo will appear on your boarding pass.
Members may use special security lanes at more than 150 U.S. airports, passing through checkpoints leading to the departure gates more quickly because they are allowed to leave on their shoes, for example.
TSA Precheck is one of several Trusted Traveler programs recognized by the U.S. government to expedite security checks. Anyone who already belongs to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Global Entry, SENTRI or NEXUS programs; is an active-duty member of the U.S. military, National Guard or Reserve; or is a civilian employee of the Department of Defense or holds certain other federal jobs doesn’t need TSA Precheck, according to the TSA.
You can learn more about all of the Trusted Traveler programs by checking the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website at dhs.gov/trusted-traveler- programs.
Mahalo
Sincere thanks to the person or persons who found the wallet I left on the No. 7 bus from Kalihi Street and turned it in to the “lost and found” at the transit center. I was in a panic mode, stressed out about having to replace all my identification cards etc. and worried that hackers would get into my credit cards accounts. What a relief that this honest angel went out of his or her way to make sure that my wallet and all the important documents inside were returned to me. Mahalo!
— Grateful kupuna
Mahalo
Mahalo to all the people who came to our aid when my wife and I lost our balance while getting on an escalator at the mall.
We were having a difficult time trying to get back on our feet with the escalator moving. Two gentlemen rushed to help us, and others also came to make sure we were OK. … Fortunately, we weren’t seriously injured. May the Lord bless all who quickly and willingly came to our aid.
— A pair of grateful seniors
Write to “Kokua Line” at Honolulu Star-Advertiser, 7 Waterfront Plaza, Suite 210, 500 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu 96813; call 529-4773; fax 529-4750; or email kokualine@staradvertiser.com.
