Expert Affirms TSA PreCheck Still Offers Compelling Benefits Amid Changes

Travelers flying within the United States 🇺🇸 face big changes at airport security in 2025, but experts say a TSA PreCheck membership still brings strong benefits. The Department of Homeland Security ended the shoes-off policy at all U.S. airports on July 8, 2025, and REAL ID rules now apply nationwide, but PreCheck’s dedicated lanes and faster screening keep it valuable for frequent flyers.

The Department of Homeland Security announced that all passengers—whether in regular or PreCheck lanes—no longer need to remove their shoes at security checkpoints. This move aims to make airport screening smoother and faster for everyone. Secretary Kristi Noem said, “We’re modernizing airport security and improving the traveler experience by using advanced screening technology.” The end of the shoes-off policy removes one of the most visible differences between PreCheck and standard screening, but PreCheck still offers several unique perks.

Starting May 7, 2025, every traveler must show a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another approved document, like a passport or DHS Trusted Traveler card, to pass through airport security for domestic flights. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is using a phased approach, so some airports may enforce these rules more strictly than others at first. If you don’t have a REAL ID, you can use a valid passport or another document approved by the Department of Homeland Security. Enhanced Driver’s Licenses are also accepted, but they’re only available in a few states.

For military families, July 2025 brought new benefits. The TSA’s “Serve with Honor, Travel with Ease” program now gives Gold Star families free TSA PreCheck enrollment. Spouses of military and uniformed service members get a $25 discount, while military personnel and Department of Defense (DoD) civilians continue to receive free PreCheck access using their DoD ID as their Known Traveler Number (KTN). The TSA is also holding mobile enrollment events near major military bases and adding special expedited access lanes for military members at select airports.

TSA PreCheck membership costs $76.75 for five years for new applicants. Renewing online costs $58.75, while renewing in person costs $66.75. Many travel credit cards and airline loyalty programs will reimburse the application fee, making it easier for frequent travelers to join. As of 2025, over 19 million people have active PreCheck memberships, and the program is available at more than 200 airports and with over 100 airlines. Most PreCheck travelers report wait times of less than 10 minutes at security.

Even though the shoes-off rule now applies to everyone, TSA PreCheck members still enjoy several advantages:

• Dedicated security lanes that are usually much shorter than standard lines.
• The ability to keep light jackets and belts on during screening.
• No need to remove laptops or approved liquids from carry-on bags.
• Faster, less-intrusive screening overall.

These benefits help travelers save time and reduce stress, especially during busy travel periods. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, even with the end of the shoes-off policy, PreCheck’s dedicated lanes and streamlined process remain highly valued by frequent travelers.

REAL ID rules now affect all travelers, including those with TSA PreCheck membership. If you don’t have a REAL ID or another approved document, you won’t be allowed through security for domestic flights. Because the new rules are being rolled out in phases, some airports may have different procedures at first. Travelers should arrive earlier than usual to avoid missing their flights, especially during the first few months of enforcement.

The “Serve with Honor, Travel with Ease” program expands access for military families. Gold Star families and military spouses now have lower costs and easier access to PreCheck, while children 12 and under can go through PreCheck lanes with eligible adults. Teens aged 13 to 17 must be on the same reservation as the adult to use the PreCheck lane.

Some airports also offer CLEAR, a separate program that uses biometric identity checks. CLEAR members can sometimes skip ahead of PreCheck lines, but only PreCheck lets travelers keep items in their bags and on their person during screening. CLEAR and PreCheck can be used together for the fastest possible experience.

Applying for or renewing TSA PreCheck membership is straightforward:

1. Start your application online at the official TSA PreCheck enrollment site.
2. Schedule an appointment at a nearby enrollment center for fingerprinting and a background check.
3. Bring required documents, such as a valid passport or REAL ID-compliant license and proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency.
4. Pay the fee: $76.75 for new enrollment, with discounts for eligible military families.
5. Receive your Known Traveler Number (KTN) once approved, which you’ll use when booking flights.
6. Renew online for $58.75 or in person for $66.75.

Experts and travel analysts recommend TSA PreCheck membership for anyone who flies often. They point out that dedicated lanes, faster screening, and less hassle make it worthwhile, even with the shoes-off rule now gone. TSA officials say PreCheck’s layered security and quick process are important for both safety and efficiency. Many travelers report that PreCheck lines are still much shorter and less stressful, especially during busy times. Military and veteran groups have praised the expanded benefits for service members and their families.

TSA PreCheck began in 2011 to help low-risk travelers move through security faster. The shoes-off rule started after the 2001 “shoe bomber” incident and was a major complaint for travelers until its removal in July 2025. REAL ID enforcement was delayed several times since the original 2005 law, but it finally took effect in May 2025.

Looking ahead, the phased rollout of REAL ID may bring more changes as airports and travelers adjust. The TSA is expected to give more guidance later in 2025. The agency also plans to keep expanding PreCheck benefits for military and other trusted groups. New technology at checkpoints may make the process even faster for everyone in the future.

For more information about TSA PreCheck membership, REAL ID requirements, or military benefits, visit the official TSA website. If you have a disability or medical condition, TSA Cares offers extra support for travelers who need it.

In summary, TSA PreCheck membership still offers strong benefits for frequent travelers, even as some perks—like keeping your shoes on—are now available to everyone. REAL ID is now required for all U.S. air travelers, and military families have more access and discounts than ever before. The application and renewal process is simple, and travelers should prepare for some delays as new rules are fully put in place. Checking official resources before you travel can help you avoid problems and make your airport experience smoother.

Learn Today

TSA PreCheck → A trusted traveler program offering faster U.S. airport security screening with dedicated lanes and fewer screening steps.
REAL ID → A federally compliant driver’s license or ID card that meets enhanced security standards for domestic air travel.
Known Traveler Number → A unique identifier assigned to TSA PreCheck members used to access expedited screening benefits.
Serve with Honor, Travel with Ease → A TSA program providing free or discounted PreCheck enrollment for military families and personnel.
Biometric Identity Checks → Security processes verifying traveler identity using physical characteristics, like fingerprints or facial recognition.

This Article in a Nutshell

The TSA ended the shoes-off rule in July 2025, but TSA PreCheck still offers faster security lanes, less hassle with belongings, and military discounts that make traveling quicker and easier nationwide.
— By VisaVerge.com