Can You Get TSA PreCheck Under 18?

Yes, children under 18 can get TSA PreCheck. Those 17 and under travel free with an enrolled parent; minors 13+ alone need their own membership.

You’re at the airport with your 15-year-old, heading to the TSA PreCheck lane, when you wonder — does your teen need their own membership? It’s a common question, and the answer might save you time and money.

The good news is that for most families, kids under 18 don’t need their own TSA PreCheck. The rules depend on age and whether they’re traveling with an enrolled adult on the same reservation. This guide covers the age requirements, how to apply if needed, and what documents you’ll need. Whether your child travels with you or alone, knowing these details keeps security screening smooth.

Kids And TSA PreCheck: The Age Rules

TSA PreCheck allows children 17 and under to use the expedited lanes when traveling with a parent or guardian who has PreCheck, as long as they’re on the same reservation. They don’t need their own Known Traveler Number (KTN).

For teens ages 13 to 17, the TSA PreCheck indicator must appear on their boarding pass. This typically happens automatically when the reservation includes an enrolled adult. If the indicator is missing, the teen may be directed to standard screening.

Children 12 and under face no restrictions — they can accompany an enrolled parent without any additional steps. This applies even if the child has their own seat and ticket.

If a minor 17 or under travels alone or with a non-enrolled adult, they need their own TSA PreCheck membership to access the lanes. They must apply and pay the fee. The application process for minors is similar to adults but requires a parent or guardian to complete the forms and provide consent.

Common Misconceptions About TSA PreCheck For Kids

Many parents assume each family member needs their own PreCheck membership. Others think teenagers automatically qualify or that children under 18 can’t apply at all. Knowing the real rules saves time at the airport and money on application fees. Here are the most common misunderstandings — and the facts.

• Kids always need their own membership. Actually, children 17 and under can travel with an enrolled parent on the same reservation without their own KTN.
• Teens automatically get PreCheck if parents have it. They do get it when on the same reservation, but the boarding pass must show the PreCheck indicator. If it doesn’t, ask the airline to add it.
• Children under 18 cannot apply for PreCheck. Minors can apply, but a parent or guardian must complete the online pre-enrollment or accompany them to an enrollment center.
• TSA PreCheck costs extra for each child. When traveling with an enrolled parent, there is no extra cost for children 17 and under. Only if they need their own membership do they pay the standard fee.

The bottom line is that families with TSA PreCheck can often bring their children through without extra cost or paperwork. Only solo travelers or those without an enrolled adult need to apply separately. Knowing this can save you $85 per child and a trip to an enrollment center.

How To Get TSA PreCheck For Your Minor Child

If your child needs their own TSA PreCheck membership — for example, because they’ll be traveling alone or with a non-enrolled adult — the application process is manageable. For children 12 and under, a parent or guardian must fill out the online pre-enrollment form. Alternatively, you can skip pre-enrollment and go directly to an enrollment center with your child. The standard fee of $85 covers a five-year membership, same as for adults.

The required documents include an original or certified copy of identity or citizenship documentation. A passport or birth certificate typically works. For non-citizens, additional documents may be needed. Per the TSA PreCheck for families page, children 17 and under can also use their parent’s PreCheck when on the same reservation — so many families never need to apply for their children at all.

The table below summarizes the rules for different age groups and travel scenarios.

Remember that the boarding pass indicator is key for teens. If it’s missing, check with your airline before security. Official TSA and CBP resources provide the most current guidance.

Steps To Get TSA PreCheck For A Minor (If Needed)

For minors who need their own membership — because they travel alone or with a non-enrolled adult — follow these steps. The process is similar to applying for an adult but with a few key differences. Plan ahead, as appointments can fill up. Here’s what to do.

1. Complete the online pre-enrollment form. For children 12 and under, a parent or guardian must fill out this form. For teens 13-17, the teen can start the application but may need a parent present at the appointment. The form is available on the official TSA enrollment website; avoid third-party sites.
2. Schedule an appointment at an enrollment center. TSA PreCheck enrollment requires an in-person visit to provide fingerprints and verify documents. Appointment availability varies by location. The appointment typically takes 10–15 minutes.
3. Bring the required documents. An original or certified copy of identity or citizenship, such as a passport or birth certificate. The parent or guardian should bring their own ID as well and must be present for minors.
4. Pay the application fee. The fee is $85 for a five-year membership, payable at the enrollment center. Some credit cards offer a statement credit for the PreCheck fee, so check your card benefits.
5. Receive your Known Traveler Number. After approval, the minor will get a KTN typically within 2–3 weeks. Add it to their airline reservations to get PreCheck on boarding passes. Write down the KTN for future bookings; it’s valid for five years.

Once approved, the minor can use their KTN when booking flights alone. If traveling with you, ensure all reservations are linked under the same record locator to get the PreCheck indicator on their boarding pass. If any issue arises at the airport, ask the airline ticket agent to add the indicator.

When Minors Need Their Own TSA PreCheck

If your minor child will be traveling alone or with an adult who doesn’t have TSA PreCheck, they’ll need their own membership. The application process involves an online pre-enrollment, an in-person appointment, and an $85 fee for five years.

For teens ages 13 to 17 traveling on the same reservation as an enrolled parent, the situation is different. Per CBP’s guidance on minors, these teens can access PreCheck lanes as long as the PreCheck indicator appears on their boarding pass. If it doesn’t, ask the airline to add it.

The key is the boarding pass indicator. Without it, the system routes the passenger to standard screening, even if they’re on the same reservation as a PreCheck parent.

Always check the boarding pass before heading to security. If the indicator is missing and the minor is eligible, ask the airline counter for help. Official sources like TSA and CBP provide the most accurate, up-to-date rules.

The Bottom Line

TSA PreCheck for children under 18 is more flexible than many parents realize. Kids 17 and under can use the lanes for free with an enrolled parent on the same reservation. Only those traveling alone or with a non-enrolled adult need their own membership. The application process for minors is straightforward with parent involvement. Knowing these rules can save you money and hassle at the airport.

For specific travel situations, check with your airline or the official TSA website before your trip. Ensure your child’s KTN is on the reservation and the PreCheck indicator appears on their boarding pass.