Twenty-five years after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks transformed airport security, a new program is allowing some people without plane tickets to pass through checkpoints.
The Transportation Security Administration has launched Gateside by TSA PreCheck, an initiative that lets approved visitors enter secure airport areas to welcome or see off loved ones, meet friends during a layover, or visit airport shops and restaurants.
How to Apply for Gateside by TSA PreCheck
People interested in the program can apply through TSA’s Visitor Pass portal. Applicants can sign in or create an account and submit an application. The portal dashboard shows the application status.
If approved, visitors can go to the TSA PreCheck lanes at the airport security checkpoint and show valid identification. The pass is free, and TSA recommends applying one to three days before the planned visit. Children are eligible, but a parent or guardian must add them to the reservation.
Who Can Use the Program?
Gateside by TSA PreCheck is available only at participating airports to people with TSA PreCheck or another trusted-traveler number, known as a KTN.
TSA PreCheck is an expedited screening program for travelers who have been vetted before arriving at the airport. It is available to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents; the application process includes the program’s full eligibility requirements. TSA PreCheck costs $85 and lasts five years.
People may also qualify with a KTN from programs such as Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST.
Which Airports Participate?
Gateside by TSA PreCheck is currently available at 13 airports, although TSA expects to add more locations in the coming months:
- Mesa Gateway Airport in Arizona (AZA)
- John Glenn Columbus International Airport in Ohio (CMH)
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport in Texas (DFW)
- Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport in Michigan (DTW)
- Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport in Kansas (ICT)
- Indianapolis International Airport in Indiana (IND)
- Harry Reid International Airport in Nevada (LAS)
- Los Angeles International Airport in California (LAX)
- Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport in Arkansas (LIT)
- Will Rogers International Airport in Oklahoma (OKC)
- Eppley Airfield in Nebraska (OMA)
- San Diego International Airport in California (SAN)
- Salt Lake City International Airport in Utah (SLC)
Reporting by Melina Khan, USA TODAY. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY.