In a move aimed at significantly accelerating the security screening process, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has introduced a new, high-tech option for eligible travelers. Known as TSA PreCheck Touchless ID, this service leverages sophisticated facial recognition technology to verify a passenger's identity, effectively eliminating the need to present a physical ID or boarding pass at the checkpoint. While the program is currently available at a select number of airports, its expansion marks a pivotal shift toward a more seamless and automated travel experience.
The core of the TSA PreCheck Touchless ID system is its secure biometric technology, officially called the Traveler Verification Service (TVS). When a passenger opts into the program, a live facial image is captured at an airport checkpoint. This image is then securely converted into a biometric template and cross-referenced with a gallery of images previously provided to the federal government, such as those from a passport or visa application. This process confirms the traveler's identity with remarkable speed, allowing them to proceed through security with minimal interruption. The system is designed to be faster and more efficient, as it bypasses the manual inspection of documents. However, passengers maintain the right to opt out at any time and can revert to the traditional identity verification method.
At which airports and with which airlines can you use this new technology?
Participating U.S. airports and airlines
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The adoption of TSA PreCheck Touchless ID is a collaborative effort between the TSA and various airlines and airport authorities. The service is presently active at 15 major U.S. airports, including key hubs in New York and New Jersey, providing a more streamlined experience for those flying from locales like LaGuardia (LGA) or Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). For example, the convenience of services like the P6 shuttle Newark Airport now pairs with an even faster security process for those using the new system. Similarly, travelers departing from Reagan National Airport (DCA) can take advantage of a quicker security line before using a convenient park and fly DCA service to pick up their vehicle.
Here's a comprehensive list of the airports where TSA PreCheck Touchless ID is in use:
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
- Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
- Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
- Denver International Airport (DEN)
- Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)
- Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
- LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
- Portland International Airport (PDX)
- Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
- Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
- Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
The following airlines are the initial carriers to partner with the TSA to offer this service. It's important to note that the availability of the service depends on the specific airport and airline combination.
- American Airlines: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta, Ronald Reagan Washington National, Denver, Dallas/Fort Worth, Harry Reid International, LaGuardia, Portland, Seattle-Tacoma, and Salt Lake City.
- Delta Air Lines: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta, Ronald Reagan Washington National, Denver, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County, John F. Kennedy, Harry Reid International, LaGuardia, Los Angeles, Portland, Seattle-Tacoma, and Salt Lake City.
- United Airlines: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta, Ronald Reagan Washington National, Denver, Newark Liberty, Harry Reid International, Los Angeles, LaGuardia, Chicago O'Hare, Portland, Seattle-Tacoma, San Francisco, and Salt Lake City.
- Alaska Airlines: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta, Ronald Reagan Washington National, Denver, Los Angeles, Portland, and Seattle-Tacoma.
How to opt-in and use the service
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To utilize TSA PreCheck Touchless ID, passengers must first be active members of the standard TSA PreCheck program. The enrollment process for the touchless feature is handled through participating airlines, not directly with the TSA. During the mobile app check-in process for a flight, an eligible passenger will receive a notification prompting them to consent to the service. By opting in, the airline adds a special consent indicator to the mobile boarding pass.
This partnership model is a key element of the program's design. The TSA and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have given airports and airlines the green light to request the use of the Traveler Verification Service. Once approved, these partners are responsible for purchasing and installing the necessary camera equipment at designated baggage drop and boarding locations. These cameras capture the passenger's image to create the biometric template. While the technology is designed for efficiency, the TSA reminds travelers that even with the touchless ID, they should still carry their physical identification as a backup.
The cost and future of touchless ID
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The TSA PreCheck Touchless ID is offered as a complimentary enhancement for individuals who are already enrolled in TSA PreCheck. The initial cost to join the standard TSA PreCheck program currently ranges from $77 to $85. This fee provides 5 years of expedited screening benefits. While the airport parking prices can vary widely depending on the lot, using this service can help reduce the overall time spent navigating the airport. Many travelers find that the investment in expedited screening, combined with a convenient parking option like those offered by ParkingNearAirports.io, creates a significantly less stressful travel day.
The TSA hasn't yet announced a formal timeline for expanding the Touchless ID technology to more airports. However, the agency's public statements indicate a clear commitment to wider implementation. The official TSA website states that the agency "looks to continue to expand this technology to additional airports with new airline partners at checkpoints, bag drop, and boarding areas for testing and evaluation purposes." This proactive stance suggests that travelers can expect the biometric screening process to become a more widespread standard in the coming years, further solidifying the trend toward contactless and automated airport procedures.
