How to Add TSA Precheck to American Airlines

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TSA PreCheck is a real lifesaver, especially if you’re a frequent flier with American Airlines (AA). Instead of waiting in a security line and stripping off your shoes and jacket, the TSA PreCheck line lets you skip all the bells and whistles for a much quicker security check-in. [1] But how do you set up this cool feature before your next big trip? Don’t worry—we’ve answered all your frequently asked questions, so you can spend more time packing and less time worrying about airport logistics.
This article is based on an interview with our professional travel planner, Amy Tan, founder of Planet Hoppers. Check out the full interview here.

Question 1 of 6:

How can I add my TSA PreCheck to an existing reservation?

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  1. Click on the “Manage trips/Check-in” tab on the homepage. Then, type in your first and last name, along with the confirmation number for your reservation.
  2. Find the “Add/Edit Passenger Information” button within the “Passenger Summary” tab. Type in your name, as well as your KTN—this should update your reservation with your TSA PreCheck status. [2]
    • A KTN is a 9-digit, alphanumeric ID number that you get from the TSA once your application is approved for TSA PreCheck. It typically starts with the letters “TT.” [3]
    • Members of TSA Global Entry also qualify for TSA PreCheck. [4] Instead of entering a KTN, you can enter your Global Entry membership number, or PASSID. You can find this 9-digit long number on the back of your Global Entry ID card in the top left-hand corner. It usually starts with the numbers “15,” “98,” or “99.” [5]
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Question 2 of 6:

How can I add my TSA PreCheck to a new reservation?

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  1. As you confirm your personal details for your reservation, look for a field labeled “Known Traveler Number.” Then, type in your KTN or PASSID to confirm your TSA PreCheck status for the flight. [6]
Question 3 of 6:

How do I add my TSA PreCheck to my American Airlines profile?

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  1. In the top right-hand corner of the screen, you should see a button with your first name—hover over this and click “account” to pull up your account information. Then, click on “Edit account,” along with “Information and password.” [7]
  2. Find the “Known Traveler Number” on this section of the page, where you can type in your KTN or PASSID. This updates your PreCheck status for the trip! [8]
    Edward Hasbrouck, Travel Expert

    With TSA Precheck, adding your Known Traveler Number to reservations is key to get expedited screening perks. For American Airlines, log into your AAdvantage account and update your profile with your KTN. This streamlines your airport experience, letting you bypass long security lines. Always double-check your KTN is entered correctly before booking flights. Adding those digits ensures a smoother, more efficient trip.

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Question 4 of 6:

Does TSA PreCheck show on boarding passes?

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  1. [9] In fact, TSA agents won’t let you into the PreCheck line unless they see the PreCheck label on your boarding pass. To be on the safe side, always double- and triple-check your pass before heading to the airport. [10]
    • Reader Poll: We asked 191 wikiHow readers how far in advance they like to get to the airport, and 47% of them said 2 hours. [Take Poll]
      • Make sure you have plenty of time at the airport to handle any problems you have with your PreCheck status.
Question 5 of 6:

Why is my TSA PreCheck not showing up on my American Airlines boarding pass?

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  1. The KTN or PASSID number in your reservation has to exactly match the number that the TSA has on file. If your KTN is even 1 digit off, you won’t see the PreCheck label on your boarding pass.
  2. If you got married or changed your name since applying for TSA PreCheck, the PreCheck label might not show up on your boarding pass. Call TSA PreCheck at 855-347-8371 to update your personal information, if needed. [11]
    • TSA’s phone line is available from Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 10 PM EST.
    • The date of birth that you provided for your flight also has to match up with the date of birth that the TSA has on file.
  3. TSA Global Entry and PreCheck memberships are good for 5 years before they have to get renewed. [12] Go to your Global Entry account to see if your account has the “Approved” or “Expired” status.
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Question 6 of 6:

How do I find my KTN or PASSID?

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  1. Type in your full name, date of birth, along with your email and/or phone number. Make sure that all of your info is identical to what the TSA has on file. You can get started here: https://universalenroll.dhs.gov/workflows?workflow=service-status&servicecode=11115V [14]


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      Tips

      • If you’re in the American military, your DoD number automatically qualifies you for TSA PreCheck. Just enter it into the “Known Traveler Number” field to get PreCheck on your boarding pass.
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      References

      1. ↑ Amy Tan. Travel Planner & Founder, Planet Hoppers. Expert Interview. 5 March 2020.
      2. ↑ Amy Tan. Travel Planner & Founder, Planet Hoppers. Expert Interview. 5 March 2020.
      3. ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/frequently-asked-questions/what-are-cbp-passid-and-known-traveler-number-0
      4. ↑ Amy Tan. Travel Planner & Founder, Planet Hoppers. Expert Interview. 5 March 2020.
      5. ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/frequently-asked-questions/what-are-cbp-passid-and-known-traveler-number-0
      6. ↑ https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/security/tsa-precheck.jsp
      7. ↑ https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/security/tsa-precheck.jsp
      8. ↑ https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/security/tsa-precheck.jsp
      9. ↑ https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/travel-tools/mobile-boarding-pass.jsp
      1. ↑ Amy Tan. Travel Planner & Founder, Planet Hoppers. Expert Interview. 5 March 2020.
      2. ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/frequently-asked-questions/my-personal-information-has-changed-how-do-i-update-my
      3. ↑ https://ttp.cbp.dhs.gov/
      4. ↑ https://help.cbp.gov/s/article/Article-1348?language=en_US
      5. ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/frequently-asked-questions/i-forgot-my-ktn-how-do-i-find-it

      About This Article

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      Reader Success Stories

      • Shawn E.

        Mar 24

        "I just got TSA Pre-Check but it was not on existing reservation on American Airlines and it was not on my board ..." more
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