When you travel, there are a few important pieces of information you need to keep handy, such as your frequent flyer number, passport number, and trip confirmation number. However, if you have TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, there’s another number that comes into play: your Known Traveler Number (KTN). This article will provide an overview of what a KTN is, how to obtain it, and how to ensure it’s attached to your flight reservations.
A KTN is a nine-digit code that is assigned to individuals who are approved for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, as well as a few other Trusted Traveler programs. It acts as an identification number that proves you’re a member of one of these programs and grants you access to the TSA PreCheck lanes at U.S. airports. To receive a KTN, you must go through an application and screening process.
Having a KTN is beneficial for air travel because it allows you to access the TSA PreCheck lanes, which typically have shorter lines and a less intrusive screening process. According to the Transportation Security Administration, about 99% of TSA PreCheck customers wait 10 minutes or less at security. To obtain a KTN, you must apply for one of the Trusted Traveler programs and pay the associated fee. Many credit cards also offer application fee credits for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.
There are several programs that offer a KTN, including TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, Nexus, and SENTRI. TSA PreCheck is a program that provides a fast-tracked security experience, allowing you to keep your shoes on and avoid removing laptops or liquids from your bag. The application fee for TSA PreCheck is $78. Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program that offers expedited customs lines for low-risk travelers returning to the U.S. from abroad. The application fee for Global Entry is $100. Nexus and SENTRI are Trusted Traveler programs for travelers entering the U.S. from Canada and/or Mexico. The application fees for Nexus and SENTRI are $50 and $122.25, respectively.
Once you’ve been approved for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, Nexus, or SENTRI, you need to add your KTN to your travel bookings to ensure “TSA PreCheck” is printed on your boarding pass. If you have a frequent flyer account, you can attach your KTN to the personal information section of your airline profile. This will automatically add your KTN to each booking you make with that airline. If you forgot to add your KTN to a flight reservation, you can typically do so by accessing your reservation on the airline’s website or mobile app and entering your KTN in the traveler information section.
If you need to find your KTN, there are a few options available. If you’re a standard TSA PreCheck member, you can use the Department of Homeland Security’s website to look up your number using your personal information. If you received your KTN through the Global Entry program, you can check the backside of your physical Global Entry card for your nine-digit “PASSID,” which is your KTN. Alternatively, you can log in to your Global Entry or Trusted Traveler Program account to view your membership number. Your frequent flyer account with an airline you regularly fly with may also have your KTN listed under your personal information.
In conclusion, a Known Traveler Number is a crucial code that allows access to the TSA PreCheck lanes at U.S. airports. It is assigned to members of Trusted Traveler programs such as TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, Nexus, and SENTRI. To obtain a KTN, you must apply for one of these programs and pay the associated fee. Adding your KTN to your airline profile ensures that it is automatically attached to your flight reservations. If you forget to add your KTN, you can typically do so by accessing your reservation on the airline’s website or mobile app. It’s important to keep your KTN handy and easily accessible when booking flights and going through airport security.