Things That Will Get You Disqualified Or Suspended From TSA PreCheck

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In “Things That Will Get You Disqualified Or Suspended From TSA PreCheck,” you’ll discover the various reasons why you might be barred from this valuable program, which offers expedited security screenings at airports. Packed with essential information, the article outlines both permanent and temporary disqualifiers, ranging from serious criminal offenses to specific regulations tied to mental health rulings. You’ll also learn about the application process and enjoy a brief overview of alternative options for faster airport security clearance. If you’re a frequent flyer or planning your next trip, this guide could be crucial in helping you maintain your TSA PreCheck status or explore other ways to breeze through airport security. Have you ever wished that getting through airport security was just a little bit faster and easier? If you frequently travel and are tired of the long lines and detailed security procedures, TSA PreCheck might be your answer. But what are the potential pitfalls? What could get you disqualified or suspended from this convenient program?

Let’s dive into the details to ensure you can breeze through your next airport experience without any hitches.

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Who is Eligible for TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck can be a game-changer for travelers who frequent the skies of the United States. However, not everyone qualifies.

TSA PreCheck is available at more than 200 airports around the United States. It allows eligible travelers to pass through security much faster, keeping shoes and belts on, leaving liquids and electronics in bags, and often using a dedicated PreCheck line.

General Eligibility Criteria

Citizenship: TSA PreCheck is available to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and lawful permanent residents.
Canadian Citizens: Canadian citizens who are members of the NEXUS trusted traveler program are also eligible.
Military Personnel: Members of the United States military, including the National Guard, are eligible for TSA PreCheck at no cost if they are currently active.

Family Benefits

It’s also great for families traveling together:

Children aged 12 and under: Can accompany a parent or guardian through the TSA PreCheck lane.
Children aged 13-17: Will often receive TSA PreCheck benefits on their boarding pass when traveling on the same reservation as an approved adult.

Random Approval

Occasionally, passengers might randomly receive TSA PreCheck for a specific flight. This is done through the Secure Flight system, which screens passengers before they arrive at the airport using data provided by airlines. This process helps identify high-risk and low-risk travelers by comparing their information to various watch lists.

Offenses That Will Permanently Disqualify You from TSA PreCheck

If you’ve never been accused of a crime, you’re probably eligible for TSA PreCheck. However, there are several offenses that could disqualify you.

Criminal Convictions

When you apply, you will undergo rigorous background checks. These checks ensure you’re a safe candidate for expedited TSA screenings and not a security risk.

Offense Category	Specific Offenses
Crimes Related to Aircraft	Assaulting, threatening, or interfering with flight crew on board an aircraft.
National Security Crimes	Espionage, sedition, treason, or terrorism.
Hazardous Materials	Improper transportation of hazardous materials.
Explosives	Unlawful behavior involving explosives.
Racketeering	Participation in illegal business dealings.
Transportation Incidents	Incidents resulting in loss of life, environmental damage, or economic disruption.

Legal Judgments

If a government authority has decided that you are at risk of harming yourself or others due to mental illness.
Being found not guilty of a qualifying crime due to insanity.

Attempting or conspiring to commit any of these crimes will also result in permanent disqualification from TSA PreCheck.

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Offenses That Will Temporarily Disqualify You from TSA PreCheck

While some offenses will permanently disqualify you, others lead to temporary suspension from the program.

Specific Offenses and Their Penalties

Passengers who attempt, conspire, or have been convicted of certain felonies will face temporary disqualification.

Offense Category	Specific Offenses	Disqualification Period
Firearms Offenses	Illegal possession, use, sale, or transportation of firearms.	7 years from conviction or 5 years from release.
Financial Crimes	Extortion, fraud, and bribery.	7 years from conviction or 5 years from release.
Smuggling	Including people, contraband, or illegal goods.	7 years from conviction or 5 years from release.
Drug-Related Offenses	Importation, distribution, or possession with intent to distribute.	7 years from conviction or 5 years from release.
Violent Crimes	Arson, kidnapping, sexual assault, voluntary manslaughter, robbery, assault with intent to kill.	7 years from conviction or 5 years from release.
Non-Violent Crimes	Immigration violations, illegal entry into a seaport.	7 years from conviction or 5 years from release.

Active Warrants

You will also be ineligible if you are wanted or under warrant for any of the above felonies until the warrant is dismissed.

How to Apply for TSA PreCheck

Assuming you’ve never committed any disqualifying offenses, getting TSA PreCheck can be a straightforward process that significantly enhances your travel experience.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Online Pre-Enrollment: Start by pre-enrolling online at the TSA website.
In-person Appointment: Schedule an appointment or walk into an enrollment center for an in-person screening. Various locations across the country are available for this step.
Documentation: Provide necessary documentation verifying your citizenship status, such as a valid U.S. passport, and take your fingerprints.

There is a non-refundable $85 fee for the background checks required.

Processing Time

Approval for TSA PreCheck typically takes three to five days. You will receive an email or phone call with information on how to access your Known Traveler Number (KTN) online. Once you have your KTN, you can use it whenever you book a travel reservation to receive your TSA PreCheck indicator on your boarding pass.

Benefits of TSA PreCheck and Alternative Options

Beyond the shorter lines, TSA PreCheck offers several other conveniences.

Key Benefits of TSA PreCheck

Keep Shoes and Belts On: You won’t have to remove these items to pass through the metal detectors.
Leave Electronics Packed: You can keep laptops and other electronics packed in your bag.
Liquids Rule: While liquids must still follow the 3-1-1 rule, they can remain in your bag through security.

Alternative Options for Expedited Screening

Global Entry: Ideal for international travelers and includes TSA PreCheck benefits.
NEXUS: Useful for those who frequently travel between the United States and Canada.
CLEAR: A private company that allows you to verify your identity via eye or fingerprint scans at many major airports. Note that CLEAR only allows you to skip the TSA document check line; you’ll still need to follow standard security steps.

To get both TSA PreCheck and CLEAR benefits, you can apply to both programs. Thankfully, there’s a new TSA PreCheck partnership with CLEAR that simplifies navigating airport security even more.

Conclusion

TSA PreCheck has the potential to make your travel experience significantly more pleasant. By meeting the eligibility requirements and avoiding any disqualifying behavior, you can save yourself time and hassle at the airport. Just remember to follow the guidelines closely to maintain your status and enjoy the benefits of expedited screening. Safe travels!

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