What is Pre✓?
Pre✓ is a U.S. government program that allows pre-screened travelers deemed low-risk by TSA to pass through an expedited security screening at more than 200 U.S. airports. Qualifying travelers don’t need to remove their shoes, belt, or lightweight jackets. They may also leave a laptop in its case or a 3-1-1 compliant bag (which can contain items such as small quantities of liquids and gels, such as travel-size bottle of mouthwash). This allows for swifter passage through security and shortening the lines other passengers must wait in. In November 2019, 93% of TSA Pre✓ passengers waited less than 5 min.
How Does It Work?
By screening applicants and conducting an in-person background check, Pre✓ verifies which passengers present the lowest risk to flight security. These passengers can then pass through security checkpoints without the need to remove their shoes, belt, or jackets from their person, or laptops and liquids from their bags.
Once approved, travelers receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) which is valid for five years. Use that number any time you book a flight. Participating airlines – which include all four carriers flying out of Chattanooga - will print an indicator on your boarding pass. When you have your KTN, you can use a faster line at participating airports reserved for TSA pre-passengers.
After five years, you’ll need to reapply to get Pre✓ again. How much does it cost? There is an $85 non-refundable application fee.
How Do I Sign Up?
Submit an online application (which takes about 5 minutes to complete). After pre-approval, you’ll be prompted to schedule an appointment for an in-person background check at any of 380+ enrollment centers. At which time, you’ll undergo a 10 minute, in-person appointment where you will be fingerprinted and asked for valid identity and citizenship information (i.e., passport only, or a driver’s license and birth certificate).
Travelers who are foreign citizens must meet certain residency requirements in order to qualify for the program.
Where Can I Sign Up?
The Chattanooga Enrollment Center is located at
IdentoGo
6231 Perimeter Dr Ste 177
Chattanooga, TN 37421
Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM & 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
You must apply online first. Please do not show up at IdentoGo without an appointment or submitting an application online.
Applicants must bring proof of identity and U.S. citizen documentation (such as a U.S. passport or a birth certificate and driver license). The application process is completed onsite where fingerprints will be collected for background check and fees will be collected. The fee is $85 for five years of service. Applicants may pay by credit card, money order, company check or certified/cashier’s check. Cash and personal checks are not accepted.
For more information about enrollment requirements and Pre✓ benefits, please visit TSA.gov/PreCheck.
The Enrollment Center is located in the office labeled IdentoGo by MorphoTrust USA. It is in the same plaza as Planet Fitness & Sportsman Warehouse on Brainerd Road near Hwy 153. After turning onto Perimeter Dr., turn left into the first driveway immediately after McDonald's, followed by an immediate right into the large parking area. The Enrollment Center will be on the right. The Enrollment Center location is next to: One Main Financial.
Not in Chattanooga? You can locate your nearest Enrollment Center here.
Requirements
Pre✓ is available to US citizens, nationals and LPRs. Applicants must apply online first, then undergo a 10 minute in-person interview and fingerprinting. Basically, as long as you're a permanent resident or US citizen, and haven't been convicted of any crimes, you're good to go.
There is an $85 application fee to enroll in Pre✓ for five years.