Starting February 1, 2026, travelers will face a new reality when booking flights through U.S. airports: a fresh, federally mandated **$45 Transportation Security Administration (TSA) fee**. This upcoming change has already spurred confusion and concern among travelers, especially those who are frequent flyers or rely heavily on air travel for work or family. The fee is a major revision to the status quo and is becoming a hot-button issue in airports and airline customer forums across the country, given its implications on both cost and convenience.
The Department of Homeland Security has confirmed this is a **non-refundable administrative charge** that will be directly associated with **TSA PreCheck enrollment and re-enrollment**. Though not an additional fee atop ticket prices, the change will impact millions of Americans seeking expedited screening. Until now, the fee for PreCheck has varied depending on the registration provider, with some promotions lowering it to the $70–$78 range. The new fixed structure is designed to simplify the process, but not everyone is thrilled about paying upfront or navigating a revised payment process.
TSA PreCheck 2026 Fee Overview
| Change | Details |
|---|---|
| Effective Date | February 1, 2026 |
| New TSA PreCheck Fee | $45 (non-refundable) |
| Who Must Pay | All new applicants and re-enrollees |
| Payment Window | Payable in advance or during application |
| Valid Duration | 5 years |
| Can You Renew Online? | Yes, if eligible |
What changed this year
In previous iterations of TSA PreCheck, travelers could pay varying amounts depending on where and how they registered. Some could even use discount programs or employer subsidies to lower costs. However, due to administrative inconsistencies, oversight recommendations, and a push for uniform policies, the Department of Homeland Security has implemented a flat rate of **$45 for all applications and renewals** starting February 1, 2026.
Officials argue that this change will decrease confusion, standardize payment processing, and allow for better budgeting and forecasting of TSA operations. While the **fee is lower than the current maximum of $85**, it is now **non-waivable**, meaning travelers will no longer be able to use promo codes or employer contributions unless done outside the TSA’s billing structure.
Who qualifies and why it matters
The new fee applies to any **U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident** who applies for or renews TSA PreCheck. Travelers interested in skipping long security lines in more than 200 airports will need to undergo a background check including fingerprinting and will have to pay the full amount regardless of travel volume or frequency.
For many business travelers and families flying more than once or twice a year, the program remains a valued shortcut through security bottlenecks. But for infrequent flyers or those already burdened by rising airfare and baggage fees, this change may deter them from joining the program.
The fixed fee introduces predictability, but we may see a decline in new enrollments from casual travelers.
— Sarah Chung, Airport Policy Analyst
How to apply step-by-step
Applying for TSA PreCheck in 2026 will be slightly different from current methods, mainly in terms of payment procedure. Here’s a breakdown of how it will work starting February 1:
- Visit the official TSA PreCheck application portal.
- Fill in your personal details including citizenship status, address, and travel history.
- Pay the **$45 application fee upfront**, either online or at your in-person appointment.
- Schedule an enrollment appointment at an authorized center, where you will provide fingerprints and identification.
- Once approved, receive your Known Traveler Number (KTN) within 5–7 business days.
Those renewing can often **skip the in-person appointment** if no critical information has changed, but must still pay the fee in full to initiate processing.
How the TSA justifies the cost
According to TSA’s internal documentation, the new fixed $45 fee reflects updated **operational costs** and ongoing investments into biometric technologies, cybersecurity infrastructure, and expedited travel lanes. Officials claim the fee does not subsidize other airport operations but is directly reinvested into enhancements strictly tied to the PreCheck program.
For travelers questioning the fairness of mandatory prepaid fees, TSA emphasizes that PreCheck remains **voluntary and opt-in**, and that the agency works to ensure benefits outweigh the cost.
We’re balancing faster throughput, automation, and security. The $45 helps us invest in future-facing passenger solutions.
— Alex Rodriguez, Deputy Director, TSA PreCheck Program
Comparing the new TSA pricing to old rates
Prior to the 2026 change, TSA PreCheck prices ranged depending on third-party providers and could involve discounts or payment plans for specific groups such as military service members or frequent flyer program participants. The fee shift does away with all of that in favor of a transparent, fixed rate. While some will benefit from the lower cost, others may pay more than previously discounted rates.
Winners and losers in the new fee structure
| Group | Impact |
|---|---|
| Frequent flyers | Neutral or positive — predictable, still worth it for time savings |
| Occasional travelers | Negative — $45 upfront may not be justified for limited travel needs |
| Corporate travel departments | Neutral — streamlined billing, but harder to subsidize |
| Low-income applicants | Negative — fewer promotional offers or waivers available |
| Program administrators | Positive — ease of compliance and processing under single fee model |
What frequent flyers should know
For frequent flyers familiar with the process, this new fee will not change the **core benefits of TSA PreCheck**: shorter lines, keeping shoes and belts on, and speedier screening. What it will change is how mileage, discount, or employer programs contribute to payment. Many programs must now negotiate directly with TSA if they wish to cover costs on behalf of employees or members.
Corporate travel managers should also brace for updated invoicing structures and workflows to ensure travelers remain covered. Those managing large travel accounts should begin preparing now to adjust to this flatter pricing structure.
Short FAQs about the new TSA fee
Is the $45 TSA fee refundable?
No, the **$45 fee is non-refundable** under any circumstances, including application denial.
Does this fee cover Global Entry?
No. TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are separate programs. The $45 covers only TSA PreCheck.
Can I pay this fee in installments?
No. The full amount must be paid at time of application or renewal.
How long is the TSA PreCheck valid?
TSA PreCheck is valid for **5 years** from the date of approval.
Will my existing membership fees change?
If your membership expires after February 1, 2026, you’ll be subject to the new structure upon renewal.
Are any discounts or waivers available?
At this time, TSA has indicated **no future discount** or waiver programs post-2026 implementation.
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