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WASHINGTON — The Transportation Security Administration is expanding their expedited screening program to 60 new airports and announced it will soon expand the program to more individuals.
The TSA PreCheck program, started in October 2011, currently exists in 40 United States airports and allows pre-approved travelers to leave on their shoes, light outerwear and belt. It also allows them to keep a laptop in its case and compliant liquids in a carry-on. TSA also said it is creating a way for more people to apply to the exclusive program.
TSA announced this week that later this year it will launch an application program for U.S. citizens to enroll in PreCheck. Those who wish to enroll are subject to an $85 enrollment fee, followed by a two to three week vetting process. Travellers will have to reapply every five years.
Eligible travellers include frequent travelers of participating airlines, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Trusted Traveler program members and the CBP’s NEXUS program. In all cases except the NEXUS program, travellers must be U.S. citizens in order to be eligible.
“As TSA continues to move away from a one-size-fits-all approach to transportation security, we are looking for more opportunities to provide the most effective security in the most efficient way possible,” said TSA Administrator John S. Pistole. “Expanding TSA PreCheck to more locations enables many more passengers across the country to experience expedited screening.”
Random screening processes still take place in the PreCheck lines, TSA said.