That’s a question thousands of travelers should be asking themselves, because we’re coming up on the fifth anniversary of TSA, whose first memberships were sold in December, 2013. Over 400,000 5-year enrollments took place between then and May 2014, and they are starting to expire.
The ‘trusted traveler’ program, which allows members to pass through airport security with their shoes and belts on, and laptops and liquids still inside their carry-ons, as well as to enjoy (usually) a shorter line, costs $85 for five years, and is included in the Global Entry program, which also speeds up passport checks on international arrivals.
Membership can be renewed on-line, but takes several weeks to process. And, you may be asked to come in for a re-qualification interview. So while you’re planning your next trips, be sure to check your renewal date. You can check your membership status on the TSA website by clicking on check my service status.
