What Documents to Bring to Your TSA PreCheck Appointment

Bring your valid passport or Real ID driver's license first

TSA PreCheck requires one form of government-issued photo ID. A valid U.S. passport is the strongest choice because it works everywhere and never expires until the date printed on it. If you don't have a passport, a Real ID-compliant driver's license works just as well — it's the one with a gold or silver star in the upper right corner.

If your state hasn't issued Real ID licenses yet, a regular driver's license won't work on its own. You'll need to bring it along with a second document that proves citizenship or lawful permanent resident status, like a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Check your state's DMV website to see whether your license already has the Real ID mark.

Make sure your ID is not expired. TSA will turn you away if it is, and you'll have to reschedule. Bring the original document, not a copy.

Key Takeaways

• Your primary document must be a valid passport or Real ID driver's license with the star marking.
• If you have a regular (non-Real ID) driver's license, bring it with a birth certificate or naturalization certificate to prove citizenship.
• Bring your Social Security number written down or your Social Security card itself, because you'll need it to complete the application form.
• Bring proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
• If you've changed your name, bring the legal document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Proof of citizenship or permanent residency

If your ID is a Real ID license or a passport, you're covered — those documents already prove citizenship. If you're using a regular driver's license, you need a second document that shows you're a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.

Acceptable documents include a birth certificate (original or certified copy), a naturalization certificate, a Certificate of Citizenship, or a valid green card. A photocopy of your birth certificate won't work — it has to be an official certified copy with the raised seal. You can order one from your state's vital records office, usually online or by mail.

If you're a permanent resident, bring your green card. Make sure it's not expired.

Your Social Security number

You'll need your Social Security number to fill out the TSA PreCheck application during your appointment. You can write it on a piece of paper and bring it with you, or bring your Social Security card itself. Either way works — the appointment officer just needs to see the number to enter it into the system.

If you don't have a Social Security number, you cannot get TSA PreCheck. You must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to hold one.

Proof of your current address

Bring a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your current home address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, or a bank statement all work. The document needs to have your name and address on it.

If you've moved recently and your ID doesn't show your new address yet, this document becomes even more important — it's how TSA knows where you actually live. A piece of mail from a government agency counts too, like a tax return or voter registration card.

Name change documents, if applicable

If your current name is different from the name on your birth certificate or citizenship document, bring the legal document that shows the change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for a legal name change all work.

Bring the original or a certified copy. A photocopy usually won't be accepted. If you've had multiple name changes, bring documents for each one in order.

What not to bring

Don't bring originals of documents you can't afford to lose, like your only copy of a birth certificate. Bring a certified copy instead. The appointment officer won't keep your documents — they'll look at them, verify the information, and hand them back — but certified copies are safer.

You don't need to bring printed confirmation of your appointment. TSA has your reservation in the system. You don't need to bring cash; the appointment fee is paid online when you book. You don't need letters of recommendation or character references.

What happens during the document check

When you arrive, the officer will ask to see your ID first. They'll look at the photo, check the expiration date, and verify your name matches the application. Then they'll ask for your proof of citizenship or residency and your address document. They'll examine each one, write down information from them, and return them to you.

If a document is expired, illegible, or doesn't match the information you provided, the officer will tell you on the spot. You'll have a chance to explain discrepancies — for example, if your address on file is old because you moved last month. If the problem can't be resolved during the appointment, you may be asked to reschedule after you obtain the correct document.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a passport card instead of a full passport?

Yes. A passport card is a valid form of government-issued photo ID and works for TSA PreCheck. It's smaller than a full passport and serves the same purpose for this appointment. Make sure it's not expired.

What if I don't have a certified copy of my birth certificate yet?

Order one from your state's vital records office before your appointment. Most states let you order online and receive it within one to two weeks. If your appointment is sooner, call the vital records office to ask about rush processing — some states offer it for an extra fee. You can reschedule your TSA appointment if the document won't arrive in time.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I just write the number down?

Either one is fine. Writing the number on a piece of paper is simpler and safer than carrying your card. The officer just needs to see the number to enter it into the system.

What if my driver's license shows an old address?

Bring your license anyway, along with a recent document that shows your current address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. The officer will note both addresses in the system. You don't need to update your license before the appointment.

Can I bring digital copies of my documents on my phone?

No. TSA requires original documents or certified copies. Digital photos or PDFs won't be accepted. Print out any documents you need, or bring the originals.