The TSA provides two services everyone should know about: TSA PreCheck and TSA Cares. These programs are meant to help travelers get through security, what are they and how can they help you travel better?
Today we are going to talk about the Transportation Security Administration. This agency was created after the attack on September 11th and is tasked with providing security for the traveling public throughout the United States. More specifically they handle security at the airport.
There are two programs through the TSA you should know about.
TSA PreCheck and TSA Cares.
TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveler Program meant expedite the process to passing through Airport Security. Passengers that have received a Known Traveler Number, which is given once the TSA PreCheck application has been approved, are able to use special security lines and have more simplified rules which streamlines the whole process. TSA PreCheck is is available in more then 200 airports across the U.S.
Some of the benefits to TSA PreCheck are.
You will save time. The TSA reported that TSA PreCheck passengers waited on average less than 5 minutes to clear security in August of 2021.
There is less hassle. When going through a TSA PreCheck line you will not have to remove your shoes, belt, jacket, or laptop.
It’s not too difficult to get TSA PreCheck, the initial application can be filled out online and the cost is $85.00. The only part I found to be a little inconviente is the in-person background check. When you fill out the online application you will setup an appointment at a location relatively close to you. The appointment takes about 10 minutes during which they will ask you questions and take your fingerprints. TSA PreCheck is is good for 5 years.
TSA Cares is another program I think everybody should be aware of. This program was created to assist travelers with disabilities or special needs to get through security. This program can really decrease the complexity for disabled travelers or those traveling with someone with disabilities.
Keep in mind that when we talk about disabilities we don’t always mean permeant, a disability can be a temporary circumstance. Sprained ankle, injured knee, broken wrist, whatever. There are many temporary disabilities that can make a trip difficult. Even though you might be able bodied it’s good to know that there are programs to assist you when traveling with a temporary disability.
In order to use this program you or your Travel Advisor needs to contact the TSA in advance to let them know you are coming. When you arrive at the airport a specially trained TSA agent known as a passenger support specialist will meet you at the beginning of the security screening area to guide you through the process.
This program is generally open to any passenger who believes they would benefit from extra support while navigating Airport Security. The most common travelers that use the service are those with autism, are in a wheelchair, have a cognitive disability, are blind or have diabetes. Those are just a few examples of passengers that use this program, if you are unsure this program is for you ask your Travel Advisor or contact the TSA.
Speaking from personal experience, TSA Cares and TSA PreCheck can really reduce the stress of traveling. I am legally blind, I suffer from a condition known as retinitis pigmentosa. Currently I have a 10 degree field of view. So I often miss visual cues or other instructions when interacting with security. This has lead to some tense moments for me in the past. When I started using both TSA PreCheck and TSA Cares my experience with Airport Security was no longer terrifying. The process became simple and trivial.
