I love having TSA Precheck benefits and have written about how to apply for TSA Precheck and Global Entry (Global Entry includes TSA Precheck).  A few readers have asked a question in the comments that I think many families would find useful:  Does TSA PreCheck extend to children traveling with you?

Does TSA PreCheck extend to children traveling with you

The answer is yes for children 12 years old or younger. If you have TSA Precheck benefits, you can bring your kids age 12 or under with you through the TSA Precheck lane.  According to the TSA website:

“Children ages 12 and younger may use the TSA PreCheck® lane when traveling with a parent or guardian who has the indicator on their boarding pass. Travelers 13 and older who do not have a TSA PreCheck® boarding pass must go through standard security lanes or apply.”

However, if your child is traveling with a parent or guardian that does not have TSA Precheck, they would not have your TSA Precheck benefits.

Note: Although TSA Precheck extends to your children age 12 or under, Global Entry does not extend to children.

Can Minors Apply For TSA Precheck?

Yes.  There is no age restriction to apply for TSA Precheck.  For most kids age 12 or younger, there is no need to apply for TSA Precheck since they are included under their parents but they can apply.

Once your child turns 13 years old, he or she would need to get their own TSA Precheck in order to use the TSA Precheck lanes with the rest of the family.

Is TSA Precheck Worth It?

I consider having TSA Precheck worth the $85 fee (or $100 Global Entry fee) if traveling more than a couple of times per year.  If traveling with one or more young children, I think TSA Precheck is an even better value since more people are covered.

Thinking of applying for TSA Precheck? You might want to read the following related posts first:

TSA Precheck vs. Global Entry: Which Is Best For You?
How to Get TSA PreCheck: A Guide on How Best to Apply
How to Get TSA Precheck or Global Entry for Free

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