How the New TSA PreCheck Touchless ID System Actually Works
TSA PreCheck is already a time-saver, but a new upgrade makes it even faster. The program is rolling out Touchless ID, a system that pairs your mobile boarding pass with facial recognition to move travelers through security more efficiently.
What is Touchless ID?
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Touchless ID is TSA’s latest security technology. Instead of handing over your driver’s license, the system uses a camera to snap your photo and match it against images already on file, like your passport. You also scan the QR code from your mobile boarding pass as part of the process. The whole thing typically takes less than five or six seconds.
TSA deletes the biometric images within 24 hours and does not use them for law enforcement or surveillance. Even though you won’t usually be asked for it, TSA still requires you to carry your ID just in case.
Where Can You Try It?
Right now, Touchless ID is live at 15 airports, including Atlanta, Los Angeles, Denver, Chicago O’Hare, New York’s JFK, LaGuardia, Newark, San Francisco, Portland, Salt Lake City, and Seattle. It also depends on the airline. Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines are in the program, but availability may be limited depending on the terminal. Always check your flight details before banking on it.
How to Opt In
Getting set up is quick. However, you have to do it before you travel. You’ll need to be a TSA PreCheck member already, then log in to your airline account and look for the section with TSA PreCheck or travel documents. That’s where you flip the switch for Touchless ID. Once it’s done, your Known Traveler Number and passport info will be connected to the system.
When you check in, make sure you use your airline’s app or mobile site. If Touchless ID is available, your digital boarding pass will show an indicator (a green human icon or similar) next to the TSA PreCheck logo. Skip printing one at the airport kiosk, since those won’t show the symbol.
What Happens at the Checkpoint
The process is straightforward. Walk up to the Touchless ID lane, scan the QR code from your mobile boarding pass, and look into the camera. The system confirms your identity and gives you the green light.
You don’t have to present a physical ID anymore. After the ID check, both lines merge into the same screening area. Some travelers report shorter lines in the Touchless ID lane, but there is no official policy of moving these passengers ahead.
The Future of Touchless Travel
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TSA has bigger plans for this system. Officials are already testing automated gates where you’d handle the scan yourself. They’re also teaming up with states to expand the use of digital IDs, so one day tapping your phone might be enough to get through.
Touchless ID is still limited to certain airports and airlines, but if you have TSA PreCheck, opting in is free and easy.