Travel is stressful enough without the added headache of long security lines. This year, TSA announced a big gift to the military community: TSA PreCheck® perks for service members, military spouses and Gold Star families. If you’re juggling deployments, PCS moves, family reunions, or just trying to get through the airport without losing your sanity—this one’s for you.
What’s New
- Free for Gold Star Families
If you’ve lost a loved one in service to the nation, TSA is waiving the $78 enrollment fee for TSA PreCheck. This is more than a discount—it’s recognition of sacrifice and a step toward making travel a little less burdensome. - Discounted for Military Spouses
Spouses can now get TSA PreCheck for $25 off. Whether you’re flying out to meet your soldier during leave, moving for the fifth PCS in six years, or just visiting family, that discount makes life easier. - Expedited Lanes for Service Members
At select airports near major military installations, TSA is setting up dedicated lanes or front-of-the-line privileges. Translation: less time waiting, more time making your flight.
Don’t Forget the Existing Perks
- Active Duty & DoD Civilians
Already eligible for free TSA PreCheck—just enter your DoD ID number as your Known Traveler Number when booking flights. - Traveling with Kids
Children 12 and under can zip through PreCheck with you. Teens 13–17 can join too, as long as they’re on the same reservation. - TSA Cares Program
For wounded warriors or veterans needing extra support, TSA offers one-on-one assistance to make screening dignified and stress-free.
How to Enroll
- Gold Star families and military spouses: tsa.gov/military
- General TSA PreCheck info: tsa.gov/travel/tsa-cares
Mobile enrollment events will also be happening near major bases—making it easy to sign up without trekking across the state.
Bottom Line
Flying shouldn’t feel like another deployment op order. With these new TSA PreCheck benefits, the military community gets faster, smoother and more respectful travel. Gold Star families, military spouses, active duty, DoD civilians and veterans with special needs—this one’s for you.
Travel with honor. Travel with ease. You’ve earned it.