Enhanced TSA Perks for Military Personnel [Complimentary TSA PreCheck]
U.S. Military Members Receive TSA PreCheck Benefits for Free
Active-duty U.S. military members and Department of Defense (DOD) civilian employees can now enjoy the benefits of TSA PreCheck without the need for separate enrollment or payment. This expedited security screening program, available at over 200 airports and 85 participating airlines, allows travelers to keep shoes on, leave laptops in bags, and keep liquids in luggage while passing through airport security.
To take advantage of this benefit, military members simply need to enter their 10-digit DOD ID number into the "Known Traveler Number" section of their booking when purchasing airline tickets. This automatic grant of access to PreCheck lanes is extended to families as well, with service members being able to use a credit card that reimburses Global Entry or TSA PreCheck membership fees to cover their family members, even if they don't qualify for PreCheck due to military status.
In addition to the standard TSA PreCheck benefits, the TSA has introduced enhanced perks such as "Honor Lanes" at select airports near military bases for expedited screening. Mobile PreCheck enrollment units are also deployed to military installations to help families, including Gold Star families (eligible for free enrollment with proper documentation) and military spouses (who receive discounted enrollment), access PreCheck benefits easily.
For those waiting for their Global Entry membership to be approved, Mobile Passport Control is a good option. This free application allows travelers to fill out personal information before passport control, bypassing the lines for kiosks.
It's important to note that Global Entry, a program offered by Customs and Border Protection that allows travelers returning from abroad to speed through customs, is not automatically granted to service members and is not free. To get Global Entry, travelers will need to create a Trusted Traveler Program account via the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) website, complete the application, and go to an appointment for enrollment.
For those looking for credit card benefits that cover TSA PreCheck or Global Entry costs, there are several options available. The IHG Rewards Premier Credit Card, Amex Platinum card, Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card, and Chase Sapphire Reserve card all offer credits that can be used for these programs.
As a military member, it's beneficial to take advantage of this DOD and TSA partnership to score complimentary TSA PreCheck. Whether you're active duty, in the Reserves, or in the National Guard, this benefit can make your airport travel experience smoother and more efficient. Additionally, military members can access USO airport lounges for added comfort during their travels.
- Despite not having Global Entry automatically granted and being free, military members can still benefit from speeding through customs with Mobile Passport Control.
- In the realm of travel, thanks to a partnership with the TSA, active-duty military members, including Reserves and National Guard, can enjoy free access to TSA PreCheck, making their airport journeys smoother.
- For those seeking lifestyle improvements and added comfort during their travels, USO airport lounges are accessible to military members, offering an extra perk in the realm of entertainment and leisure.
- In the business of finance, several credit cards offer credits that can be used to cover TSA PreCheck or Global Entry costs, providing added convenience and savings for those navigating the world of business travel.
