How to Get TSA PreCheck with Medical Devices: Complete Application Guide

TSA Policy Disclaimer: This guide is compiled from official TSA and CBP sources and is updated regularly. However, TSA policies may change. Always verify current requirements at TSA.gov before traveling. Last verified: January 2025.

---

Why TSA PreCheck Matters for Medical Device Travelers

You arrive at airport security with your portable oxygen concentrator, spare batteries carefully protected, medical documentation organized, and physician's letter in hand. Then you see it: a security line snaking through the terminal with an estimated 45-minute wait. Your flight boards in 50 minutes. Your POC battery is already running. The stress begins.

For travelers with medical devices, airport security screening isn't just an inconvenience—it's a complex, time-consuming process that can be physically exhausting and medically risky. Medical equipment requires additional screening. TSA officers need to inspect batteries. Devices must be removed from bags. Wheelchair users face extended wait times for accessible screening areas. Every security checkpoint becomes a potential complication.

TSA PreCheck offers a solution: expedited screening that significantly reduces wait times while still accommodating medical devices. But does TSA PreCheck really help when you're traveling with a CPAP, POC, wheelchair, or other medical equipment? How do you apply? What are the benefits and limitations? And most importantly, is it worth the time and money for medical device travelers?

This comprehensive guide answers all your questions about TSA PreCheck for medical device users, from application through renewal.

What You'll Learn:

• Benefits of TSA PreCheck for medical device travelers
• Step-by-step TSA PreCheck application process
• How medical device screening works in PreCheck lanes
• Cost-benefit analysis for frequent and occasional travelers
• TSA PreCheck vs. CLEAR vs. Global Entry comparison
• Tips for maximizing your PreCheck benefits

---

What is TSA PreCheck?

Program Overview

TSA PreCheck is a trusted traveler program operated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that provides expedited security screening at U.S. airports.

Core Benefits:

• Dedicated expedited security lanes at 200+ U.S. airports
• Average wait time: Under 10 minutes (vs. 30+ minutes in standard lanes)
• Keep shoes, belts, and light jackets on during screening
• Leave laptops and liquids in carry-on bags
• Reduced physical pat-downs and additional screening

Membership Details:

• Cost: $78-$85 for 5 years (varies by enrollment provider)
• Duration: 5-year membership
• Eligibility: U.S. citizens, nationals, and lawful permanent residents
• Processing Time: 3-5 days after in-person appointment (can be expedited)

How TSA PreCheck Works

Application Process:

1. Complete online application at TSA.gov or authorized provider
2. Schedule in-person appointment at enrollment center
3. Provide fingerprints and identity documents
4. Pay application fee ($78-$85)
5. Receive Known Traveler Number (KTN) within 3-5 days
6. Add KTN to airline reservations for PreCheck access

At Airport Security:

• Look for TSA PreCheck® lanes (marked with ✓ symbol)
• Show boarding pass with "TSA PreCheck" indicator
• Proceed through expedited screening process
• Medical devices still subject to screening (but faster)

---

TSA PreCheck Benefits for Medical Device Travelers

Time Savings: The Primary Advantage

Standard Security vs. TSA PreCheck:

Why Time Matters for Medical Device Users:

• Reduced physical strain from standing in long lines
• Less battery drain on POCs and CPAPs during wait
• Lower stress levels and anxiety before flights
• More time for gate check procedures (wheelchairs, POCs)
• Buffer time if issues arise during screening

Reduced Physical Screening

Standard Lane Requirements:

• Remove shoes, belts, jackets
• Unpack laptops, liquids, medical devices from bags
• Stand with arms raised for body scanner or submit to pat-down
• Physically exhausting for travelers with mobility limitations

TSA PreCheck Lane Benefits:

• Keep shoes, belts, light jackets on (major benefit for mobility device users)
• Leave items in bags (except medical devices may need separate screening)
• Metal detector instead of body scanner (faster, less invasive)
• Reduced likelihood of additional pat-downs

Impact for Medical Device Users:

• Less physical exertion during screening
• Easier for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility
• Fewer items to manage while handling medical equipment
• Lower risk of dropping or damaging medical devices

Consistency and Predictability

Standard Security Challenges:

• Inconsistent screening procedures between airports
• Variable TSA officer familiarity with medical devices
• Unpredictable additional screening requests
• Different rules interpretation between checkpoints

TSA PreCheck Advantages:

• More consistent screening experience across airports
• TSA PreCheck officers often more experienced
• Streamlined procedures reduce confusion
• Lower likelihood of unusual or inconsistent requests

Why This Matters:

• Reduced pre-travel anxiety about security
• Easier to plan arrival time at airport
• More predictable screening routine
• Less need to re-explain medical device requirements

Better Accommodation for Medical Devices

While medical devices require screening in both standard and PreCheck lanes, PreCheck offers advantages:

Faster Medical Device Processing:

• Shorter lines mean quicker access to TSA officers
• Less pressure to rush through screening
• More time for TSA officers to properly inspect equipment
• Reduced chance of missing flight due to screening delays

Improved Communication:

• Less chaotic environment allows clearer communication
• TSA officers can take time to understand device requirements
• Easier to request supervisor if issues arise
• More space for device inspection and testing

---

TSA PreCheck Application Process: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Who Qualifies:

• U.S. citizens and U.S. nationals
• Lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders)
• Applicants must pass background check
• No disqualifying criminal convictions
• Not on TSA's no-fly list

Who May Be Disqualified:

• Certain criminal convictions (terrorism, espionage, violent crimes)
• Immigration violations
• False statements on application
• Previous TSA security violations

Age Considerations:

• Applicants must be at least 12 years old to apply
• Children under 12 can use TSA PreCheck when traveling with eligible parent/guardian
• Children 13-17 with their own tickets must apply separately or pay for family program

Step 2: Choose Enrollment Provider

TSA-Approved Enrollment Options:

1. TSA PreCheck Directly ($78 for 5 years)

• Official TSA program through TSA.gov
• Lowest cost option
• 500+ enrollment centers nationwide
• Includes TSA PreCheck only (not Global Entry)

2. Global Entry ($100 for 5 years)

• Includes TSA PreCheck PLUS expedited customs for international travel
• Best value if you travel internationally
• Run by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
• Enrollment at major international airports
• Requires interview at enrollment center

3. Authorized Third-Party Providers ($85 for 5 years)

• CLEAR, Idemia, Telos
• Sometimes offer mobile enrollment (convenience benefit)
• Slightly higher cost than direct TSA application
• May have more appointment availability

Recommendation for Medical Device Travelers:

• Frequent international travelers: Apply for Global Entry (includes TSA PreCheck + customs benefits)
• Domestic-only travelers: Apply directly through TSA.gov for lowest cost
• Limited mobility: Consider third-party provider with mobile enrollment if available in your area

Step 3: Complete Online Application

Application Requirements:

1. Visit TSA.gov or enrollment provider website
2. Create account or log in
3. Complete online application form

Information You'll Need:

• Full legal name (as on ID)
• Date and place of birth
• Social Security Number (U.S. citizens/permanent residents)
• Current address and address history (5 years)
• Employment history (5 years)
• Citizenship or immigration status documents
• Valid passport or birth certificate information
• Criminal history disclosure (if applicable)

Application Tips:

• Use legal name exactly as it appears on government-issued ID
• Ensure address matches current government records
• Double-check all dates and spellings (errors delay processing)
• Complete in one sitting (some systems time out)
• Keep confirmation number after submission

Step 4: Schedule In-Person Appointment

After Online Application Submission:

• System will prompt you to schedule appointment
• Choose enrollment center location convenient to you
• Select date and time (appointments typically available within 1-2 weeks)

Enrollment Center Locations:

• 500+ locations nationwide
• Airports, government buildings, private enrollment centers
• Find nearest location at TSA.gov/precheck or universalenroll.dhs.gov

Appointment Scheduling Tips for Medical Device Users:

• Choose morning appointments (less crowded)
• Avoid peak travel days (Fridays, Sundays, holiday periods)
• Select locations with accessible facilities if needed
• Confirm parking and accessibility accommodations in advance

Step 5: Attend In-Person Appointment

What to Bring:

• Online application confirmation number
• Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, state ID)
• Proof of citizenship or legal residency (passport, birth certificate, Green Card)
• Payment method (credit/debit card, money order, check)

At the Appointment:

1. Arrive 10-15 minutes early
2. Check in with enrollment officer
3. Provide fingerprints (digital scanning, takes 2-3 minutes)
4. Verify identity documents
5. Answer background questions (employment, travel history, criminal history if applicable)
6. Pay application fee ($78-$85 depending on provider)
7. Receive receipt and estimated processing time

Appointment Duration: Typically 10-15 minutes

Accessibility Accommodations:

• Enrollment centers must provide wheelchair accessibility
• Notify enrollment provider in advance if you need special accommodations
• Bring medical devices if needed during appointment
• Service animals permitted

Step 6: Wait for Approval

Processing Timeline:

• Average: 3-5 business days after in-person appointment
• Rush cases: Can be as fast as 24 hours
• Delayed cases: Up to 60 days if additional background checks required

How You'll Be Notified:

• Email notification to address provided on application
• Text message (if opted in)
• Check status online at TSA.gov or enrollment provider website

What You'll Receive:

• Known Traveler Number (KTN): 9-digit number
• Approval letter via email
• Membership expiration date (5 years from approval)

Step 7: Add KTN to Airline Profiles

Critical Step: You must add your Known Traveler Number to airline reservations to access TSA PreCheck lanes.

How to Add KTN:

1. Update Airline Loyalty Profiles (Recommended):

• Log into airline frequent flyer accounts
• Navigate to profile or account settings
• Find "Known Traveler Number" or "TSA PreCheck" field
• Enter 9-digit KTN
• Save changes
• KTN will auto-populate on future bookings

2. Add to Individual Reservations:

• When booking flight online, enter KTN in designated field
• Call airline to add KTN to existing reservations
• Add at airport check-in kiosk or counter (less reliable)

Airlines Participating in TSA PreCheck:

• All major U.S. airlines: American, Delta, United, Southwest, JetBlue, Alaska, Spirit, Frontier
• Many international airlines operating in U.S.: Air Canada, British Airways, Lufthansa, etc.
• Check TSA.gov for full list of participating airlines

Verification:

• After adding KTN, check that "TSA PreCheck" or "TSA PRE" appears on boarding pass
• If not showing, contact airline to verify KTN is correctly entered
• KTN typically takes 24 hours to sync with airline systems after first entry

---

Using TSA PreCheck with Medical Devices

What to Expect in PreCheck Lane

General PreCheck Screening Process:

1. Look for TSA PreCheck® lane (marked with ✓ symbol)
2. Show boarding pass with "TSA PreCheck" indicator to TSA officer
3. Proceed to metal detector (not body scanner)
4. Walk through metal detector
5. Collect belongings and proceed to gate

However, Medical Devices Require Additional Steps:

Medical Device Screening in PreCheck Lane

Important Clarification: TSA PreCheck expedites general screening BUT medical devices STILL require inspection in both standard and PreCheck lanes. The benefit is time saved on the general screening process, not elimination of medical device checks.

POCs and Portable Medical Equipment:

• Must be removed from bags for X-ray screening
• May be subject to swab testing for explosive residue
• TSA officer may request to see device powered on
• Batteries may require separate screening

CPAPs and BiPAPs:

• Generally can remain in carry-on bag in PreCheck lane (unlike standard lane)
• TSA officer may request removal for inspection
• Distilled water must comply with 3.4 oz limit (unless medical exemption documented)

Wheelchairs and Mobility Devices:

• TSA PreCheck does not eliminate wheelchair screening requirements
• Battery inspection still required
• May need to transfer to accessible screening chair
• Same wheelchair procedures apply in both standard and PreCheck lanes

Prosthetics and Assistive Devices:

• Can remain on body during metal detector screening
• TSA officer may request pat-down of area
• Notify officer before screening about non-removable devices

Notifying TSA Officers in PreCheck Lane

Best Practices:

1. Proactively inform TSA officer: "I'm traveling with [medical device type] and [number] batteries."
2. Show medical documentation if applicable
3. Request supervisor if TSA officer is unfamiliar with device requirements
4. Be patient—PreCheck officers generally more experienced but device inspection still takes time

---

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Is TSA PreCheck Worth It?

Cost Breakdown

TSA PreCheck Application:

• Direct TSA: $78 for 5 years = $15.60/year
• Third-party providers: $85 for 5 years = $17/year
• Global Entry (includes TSA PreCheck): $100 for 5 years = $20/year

Additional Costs:

• Renewal: Same fee every 5 years
• Travel to enrollment center: Gas/parking/transportation
• Time commitment: ~2-3 hours (application + appointment + travel)

Benefit Valuation

Time Savings Per Trip:

• Average time saved: 15-30 minutes per airport security experience
• Value of your time: Estimate your hourly rate or use $25/hour average

Example Calculation:

Traveler Profile: Flies 6 times per year domestically

• Time saved per trip: 20 minutes average
• Total time saved per year: 120 minutes (2 hours)
• Time value: 2 hours × $25/hour = $50 value
• TSA PreCheck cost: $15.60/year
• Net benefit: $50 - $15.60 = $34.40 value per year

Break-Even Analysis:

Conclusion: TSA PreCheck pays for itself after just 2 flights per year for most travelers.

Non-Monetary Benefits for Medical Device Users

Health and Comfort:

• Reduced physical strain (less standing, less exertion)
• Lower stress and anxiety
• Less battery drain on medical devices
• More energy for actual travel

Safety and Reliability:

• Reduced risk of missing flights due to security delays
• More time to address issues if medical device screening takes longer
• Better able to manage medical needs during travel

Quality of Life:

• More predictable travel experience
• Less pre-travel anxiety about security
• Improved confidence when traveling with medical equipment
• More enjoyable travel overall

Recommendation for Medical Device Travelers:

Definitely Worth It If:

• You fly 3+ times per year
• You have mobility limitations that make long security lines difficult
• You travel with complex medical equipment requiring significant screening time
• You experience anxiety about airport security

Consider Carefully If:

• You fly less than 2 times per year (still may be worth it for stress reduction)
• You only travel from small airports without TSA PreCheck lanes
• You have criminal history that may result in denial (check eligibility first)

---

TSA PreCheck vs. CLEAR vs. Global Entry

Program Comparison

Detailed Program Analysis

TSA PreCheck:

Pros:

• Lowest annual cost ($16/year)
• Available at most U.S. airports
• 5-year membership (less frequent renewal)
• Specifically designed for expedited security screening

Cons:

• Still requires waiting in PreCheck line (though much shorter)
• No international travel benefits
• Enrollment centers may require travel to attend appointment

Best For:

• Medical device travelers flying 3+ times per year domestically
• Budget-conscious travelers
• Anyone wanting predictable, faster security

CLEAR:

Pros:

• Skip directly to front of security line (no waiting)
• Biometric verification (iris/fingerprint scan)
• Quick enrollment (immediate approval)
• Family plan available (up to 3 family members for additional $60 each)

Cons:

• Most expensive option ($189/year)
• Only at 50+ airports (less coverage than TSA PreCheck)
• Still must go through TSA screening (CLEAR just bypasses line)
• Annual renewal required
• Medical devices still require full screening

Best For:

• Very frequent travelers (6+ trips/month)
• Business travelers with company reimbursement
• Travelers who frequently use CLEAR-equipped airports

Can Be Combined:

• CLEAR + TSA PreCheck = Skip line AND expedited screening (optimal but expensive)
• Many CLEAR members also have TSA PreCheck for airports without CLEAR

Global Entry:

Pros:

• Includes TSA PreCheck (no separate application needed)
• Expedited U.S. customs and immigration upon international return
• Best value for international travelers ($20/year vs. $16/year for TSA PreCheck alone)
• 5-year membership
• Use Global Entry kiosks instead of customs lines (save 30-60 minutes)

Cons:

• Longer processing time (2-3 weeks average)
• Interview required at international airport (may require travel)
• More extensive background check
• Only valuable if you travel internationally

Best For:

• Medical device travelers who fly internationally 1+ times per year
• Anyone who wants both domestic and international benefits
• Travelers near major international airports with Global Entry enrollment centers

Recommended Combination for Medical Device Travelers

Budget Recommendation: TSA PreCheck Only

• Cost: $16/year
• Benefit: Faster domestic security screening
• Best for: Travelers flying 3+ times/year domestically

Premium Recommendation: Global Entry (includes TSA PreCheck)

• Cost: $20/year
• Benefit: Faster domestic security + expedited international customs
• Best for: Any international travel + all domestic travel benefits

Maximum Speed Recommendation: CLEAR + Global Entry

• Cost: $209/year
• Benefit: Skip security lines + expedited screening + expedited customs
• Best for: Very frequent travelers (monthly travel), business travelers

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Does TSA PreCheck speed up medical device screening?

A: Partially. TSA PreCheck expedites general security screening (shorter lines, metal detector instead of body scanner, keep shoes on). However, medical devices themselves still require inspection in both standard and PreCheck lanes. The benefit is reduced total time at security due to faster general screening, even though device inspection time remains similar.

Q2: Can I use TSA PreCheck if I'm traveling with a portable oxygen concentrator?

A: Yes. TSA PreCheck does not restrict medical devices. Your POC will still need to be removed from your bag for X-ray screening and may be swabbed for explosives, but the overall security process will be faster due to shorter lines and expedited general screening.

Q3: Will I always get TSA PreCheck when I have it?

A: Not always. TSA PreCheck is granted on a per-flight basis. While most members get PreCheck on most flights, TSA randomly selects some members for standard screening. Additionally, TSA PreCheck is only available at participating airports (200+ in U.S.). International flights may not offer PreCheck depending on departure airport and airline.

Q4: Does TSA PreCheck help with wheelchair screening?

A: Somewhat. TSA PreCheck reduces general screening time, but wheelchair and mobility device screening procedures are the same in both standard and PreCheck lanes. The benefit is shorter wait time to access screening and less time standing in line before wheelchair inspection.

Q5: Can my family use TSA PreCheck if I have it?

A: Children 12 and under can use TSA PreCheck when traveling with an eligible parent/guardian (even if the child doesn't have their own membership). Children 13 and older must have their own TSA PreCheck membership. Spouses must apply separately unless you purchase a family program through providers like CLEAR.

Q6: Is TSA PreCheck worth it if I only fly twice a year?

A: For medical device travelers, yes. Even at 2 flights/year, TSA PreCheck nearly pays for itself in time savings ($15.60/year cost vs. estimated $16-30 value from time saved). Non-monetary benefits (reduced stress, physical strain, battery conservation) add significant value beyond cost calculation.

Q7: What if I'm denied TSA PreCheck due to my background?

A: If denied, TSA will send a letter explaining the reason. You can appeal the decision or request reconsideration if you believe the denial was in error. Common reasons for denial include certain criminal convictions, immigration violations, or false information on application. Contact TSA's adjudication team for specific guidance.

Q8: Can I use TSA PreCheck at international airports outside the U.S.?

A: No. TSA PreCheck only works at U.S. airport security checkpoints. International airports have their own security procedures. However, if you have Global Entry (which includes TSA PreCheck), you can use expedited customs lanes when returning to the U.S. from international travel.

---

Tips for Maximizing TSA PreCheck Benefits

Before Travel

1. Always Add KTN to Reservations

• Update airline frequent flyer profiles with Known Traveler Number
• Verify KTN appears correctly (9-digit number)
• Check that "TSA PreCheck" shows on boarding pass 24 hours before flight

2. Verify PreCheck Availability

• Not all airports have TSA PreCheck lanes
• Check TSA.gov for PreCheck availability at your departure airport
• Some airports only have PreCheck during certain hours (typically 5 AM - 8 PM)

3. Arrive with Sufficient Time

• Even with PreCheck, arrive 60-90 minutes before domestic flights
• Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights
• Medical device screening can still take extra time even in PreCheck lane

At Airport Security

4. Look for TSA PreCheck Signage

• Follow signs for "TSA PreCheck" or look for ✓ symbol
• Don't automatically go to standard security lane
• If PreCheck lane closed, you can use standard lane (but without expedited benefits that trip)

5. Have Boarding Pass Ready

• TSA officer will verify "TSA PreCheck" indicator on boarding pass
• Mobile boarding passes work (screenshot PreCheck indicator just in case)
• If PreCheck not on boarding pass, go to airline counter to have it added

6. Proactively Communicate About Medical Devices

• Inform TSA officer immediately: "I have [device type] and need special screening"
• Show documentation if applicable
• Medical devices may still require you to use standard lane if PreCheck lane lacks necessary equipment

General PreCheck Etiquette

7. Follow PreCheck Rules

• Keep shoes, belt, light jacket on
• Leave laptop and liquids in bag (unless told otherwise)
• Remove medical devices from bag for X-ray
• Don't slow down line by unpacking unnecessarily

8. Keep Membership Active

• Set calendar reminder 6 months before expiration
• Renewal process easier than initial application (online renewal option may be available)
• Start renewal early to avoid lapse in benefits

---

Renewal Process

When to Renew

• Membership Duration: 5 years from approval date
• Renewal Window: Can renew up to 6 months before expiration
• Expiration Date: Found in original approval email or at TTP.CBP.DHS.gov

What Happens if You Miss Renewal:

• TSA PreCheck access ends immediately on expiration date
• Must reapply as new applicant (full process and fee)
• May lose membership number and need to update all airline profiles

Renewal Options

Option 1: Online Renewal (If Eligible)

• Some members can renew entirely online without in-person visit
• Check eligibility at TSA.gov or enrollment provider website
• Complete online renewal application
• Pay renewal fee ($78-$85 depending on provider)
• Approval typically within 24 hours

Option 2: In-Person Renewal

• Required if online renewal not available
• Schedule appointment at enrollment center
• Bring ID and payment
• Quick appointment (5-10 minutes)
• Immediate renewal or approval within days

Renewal Fee: Same as initial application ($78-$85 for 5 years)

---

Key Takeaways: Your TSA PreCheck Decision Checklist

✅ TSA PreCheck is Worth It If You:

• Fly 3+ times per year (domestically)
• Travel with medical devices requiring significant screening time
• Experience physical difficulty standing in long security lines
• Feel anxiety or stress about airport security with medical equipment
• Value predictability and consistency in travel experience

✅ Consider Global Entry Instead If You:

• Travel internationally 1+ times per year
• Want expedited customs in addition to security benefits
• Are willing to pay $4 more per year for additional benefits
• Live near international airport with Global Entry enrollment center

✅ Before You Apply:

• Verify you meet eligibility requirements (U.S. citizen, national, or permanent resident)
• Check for disqualifying criminal history or immigration issues
• Calculate your personal cost-benefit based on travel frequency
• Find nearest enrollment center location and schedule appointment availability
• Determine if Global Entry ($100/5 years) better value than TSA PreCheck alone

✅ After Approval:

• Add Known Traveler Number (KTN) to all airline frequent flyer profiles
• Verify "TSA PreCheck" appears on boarding passes
• Set calendar reminder to renew 6 months before expiration
• Continue to carry medical device documentation (PreCheck doesn't eliminate medical device requirements)

---

Medical Disclaimer: This article provides TSA program information for travelers with medical devices. It is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your physician before air travel with medical conditions. TSA PreCheck does not change medical device screening requirements or medical travel guidelines.

Program Disclaimer: While this guide is comprehensive and regularly updated, TSA and CBP may change program policies without notice. Always verify current requirements at TSA.gov and CBP.gov before applying or traveling.

---

This comprehensive guide is part of MedFly Safe's commitment to helping medical device users travel safely and efficiently. For more essential travel information, explore our guides on TSA Medical Device Screening, Airline Medical Device Policies, and Battery Regulations.