Bottom Line Up Front: TSA PreCheck Touchless ID uses facial recognition technology to verify your identity in under 8 seconds, eliminating the need to show physical ID at security checkpoints. Currently available at select airports with American, Delta, United, and Alaska Airlines, this free upgrade to your existing TSA PreCheck membership streamlines airport security even further.

TSA PreCheck Touchless ID enhances the security screening process with facial recognition technology for faster, more efficient identity verification. Imagine walking through airport security without fumbling for your ID or boarding pass—just a quick facial scan and you're on your way. That's the reality for travelers using TSA PreCheck Touchless ID at select airports across the United States.

This revolutionary technology is transforming how we navigate airport security, making the already streamlined TSA PreCheck experience even smoother. As part of the new partnership, TSA PreCheck members flying with American will be able to fly through checkpoints without showing their physical ID or boarding pass. If you're a frequent traveler or points enthusiast looking to maximize your time at the airport, this guide will show you everything you need to know about this game-changing security feature. For those new to TSA PreCheck, you might want to read our comprehensive comparison of TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry to understand which program suits your travel needs best.

What Is TSA PreCheck Touchless ID?

TSA PreCheck® Touchless Identity Solution, currently in operational assessment, eliminates the need for travelers to present a passport, ID card, or personal device with a digital ID. Instead, the traveler volunteers to allow TSA to match their live photo with a stored photo from a passport or other source document.

TSA PreCheck Touchless ID represents the next evolution in airport security screening. While traditional TSA PreCheck allows you to keep your shoes on and laptops in bags, Touchless ID takes convenience a step further by eliminating the need to physically present identification documents at the checkpoint.

The system uses advanced facial recognition technology to verify your identity in seconds. Using the TSA PreCheck Touchless ID cuts down the average processing time for ID verification to less than eight seconds, according to the TSA representative. This isn't just about speed—it's about creating a completely touchless experience that reduces contact points and streamlines the entire security process.

For frequent flyers familiar with Global Entry's facial recognition at customs, this technology brings similar convenience to domestic security checkpoints. The program launched in March 2021 and has been steadily expanding to major airports across the country. To learn more about the official TSA PreCheck program requirements and enrollment process, visit the TSA's official PreCheck page.

TSA PreCheck Touchless ID: How Facial Recognition Technology Works

The technology behind TSA PreCheck Touchless ID is both sophisticated and remarkably simple from a user perspective. This biometric screening system compares templates of passengers' live photos to a pre-staged gallery of existing passport or visa photo templates—essentially matching your face to your official government documents in real-time.

Here's what happens when you use the system:

Step 1: Approach the Kiosk

When you arrive at the TSA PreCheck Touchless ID lane, you'll see a designated kiosk with a camera. The system captures your image from the chin up in a matter of seconds.

Step 2: Facial Recognition Processing

This system, built on the Customs and Border Protection's Traveler Verification Service, employs biometric technology to rapidly verify a passenger's identity through a facial scan. The technology matches your live image against stored photos from government documents like your passport, Global Entry profile, or visa applications.

Step 3: Verification Complete

If the match is successful, you'll receive confirmation and can proceed through security. Under normal operating conditions TSA facial recognition technology deletes traveler data and images immediately after your identity is verified.

The entire process takes just seconds, and you won't need to remove any documents from your wallet or pull up your boarding pass on your phone. It's truly a hands-free experience that makes the already convenient TSA PreCheck process even more efficient.

TSA PreCheck Touchless ID Participating Airlines and Airports

TSA PreCheck Touchless ID availability continues to expand, but it's currently limited to specific airline-airport combinations. Here's where you can use facial recognition technology to breeze through security checkpoints:

Participating Airlines: American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines

Current Participating Airports

Delta Air Lines TSA PreCheck Touchless ID is currently an expanded pilot program in the following airports: ATL (Atlanta), DTW (Detroit), LAX (Los Angeles), LGA (New York City), JFK (New York City), SLC (Salt Lake City) and DCA (Washington, D.C.). You can find more details about Delta's Digital ID program on Delta's official website.

American Airlines The program just launched for American flyers at its Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA) hubs, along with Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). For complete details about enrollment, visit American Airlines' TSA PreCheck page.

United Airlines United offers the service at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

Alaska Airlines Alaska Airlines provides Touchless ID access at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA).

The TSA continues expanding this program, with plans to add more airports throughout 2025. Airlines are prioritizing their major hub airports for implementation, so expect to see this technology at more busy travel centers soon.

If you're planning travel through any of these airports and hold TSA PreCheck, it's worth checking whether your specific airline offers the service for your route. The program is expanding rapidly, and new airport-airline combinations are being added regularly.

How to Enroll in TSA PreCheck Touchless ID

Enrolling in TSA PreCheck Touchless ID is straightforward, but the process varies slightly depending on your airline. The good news? It took me all of two minutes to complete the enrollment process, according to tested travelers.

Prerequisites

Before you can enroll, you need:

• Active TSA PreCheck membership
• Valid U.S. passport
• Airline loyalty program membership (free to join)
• To be traveling solo (family enrollments have limitations)

American Airlines AAdvantage Members

To enroll with American Airlines:

1. Log into your AAdvantage account on AA.com
2. Navigate to "Information and Password" section of your profile
3. Add your passport number and expiration date
4. Check the box to opt in to TSA PreCheck Touchless ID
5. Save your preferences

Travelers will need to renew their enrollment in the program each year, making it an annual opt-in process rather than a one-time setup.

Delta SkyMiles Members

Delta's process is equally simple:

1. Store your passport information and Known Traveler Number in your SkyMiles profile
2. Opt into Delta Digital ID within your SkyMiles profile on Delta.com
3. Eligible customers can opt in to this program one time and stay enrolled — simply activate the feature to have TSA PreCheck Touchless ID ready at participating airports

United MileagePlus Members

For United Airlines:

1. Upload your passport information to your MileagePlus account
2. Ensure you're on a single-passenger reservation
3. Opt in through your United profile online

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan Members

Alaska's enrollment process:

1. Sign in to your Mileage Plan account
2. Confirm your Known Traveler Number and passport information are current
3. Select "Add TSA PreCheck Touchless ID" and check "opt in"
4. Save your selection for future trips

Remember, you can opt out at any time if you prefer to use your physical ID. The enrollment is completely voluntary and reversible.

Privacy and Data Protection: What You Need to Know

Privacy concerns around facial recognition technology are understandable, and the TSA has implemented several measures to address these issues. Facial recognition technology is voluntary. Tell a TSA officer if you do not wish to participate. The officer will use the standard ID verification process.

Data Handling and Retention

The TSA takes data protection seriously with specific protocols in place:

• Immediate Deletion: Under normal operating conditions TSA facial recognition technology deletes traveler data and images immediately after your identity is verified.
• Touchless ID Specific Retention: If you use TSA PreCheck® Touchless Identity Solution, your information is deleted 24 hours after your scheduled departure time.
• Limited Testing Data: In rare instances TSA will collect and temporarily retain photos and data to test the accuracy of TSA's facial recognition technology. These data collection mode events are limited in time and place and begin with passenger notification signs.

Security Measures

We secure all personal data and images used or temporarily stored by our facial recognition technology. Additionally, all of TSA's facial recognition technologies adhere to DHS and TSA cybersecurity requirements.

The system doesn't store your image for surveillance purposes or share it with other entities. Images are not used for law enforcement, surveillance, nor shared with other entities.

Your Rights

You always have the right to opt out. Clear signage at participating checkpoints informs travelers about the facial recognition technology and their right to decline participation. If you choose not to participate, you'll simply go through the standard TSA PreCheck process without any delays or penalties.

For travelers concerned about privacy, it's worth noting that the biometric data used is already collected when you apply for your passport or Global Entry, making this more of a verification system than a new data collection process.

Benefits of TSA PreCheck Touchless ID

The advantages of TSA PreCheck Touchless ID extend beyond simple convenience, offering tangible benefits for frequent travelers and points enthusiasts.

Speed and Efficiency

More efficient: Speeds up the TSA PreCheck process even further, saving valuable time. For travelers who value time savings, especially those rushing between connecting flights, those extra seconds add up significantly over multiple trips.

The system processes travelers in less than eight seconds, compared to the traditional process of removing ID, waiting for verification, and putting documents away. This efficiency is particularly valuable during peak travel times when every second counts.

Convenience Factor

More convenient: Follow airport signs to the dedicated TSA PreCheck Touchless ID queue. When your face is all you need to verify your identity, there's no fumbling with physical documents.

As a frequent flier who has a habit of forgetting to keep all my traveling documents with me (as I've done on several occasions), the relief of not having to stretch for my ID repeatedly was more than welcome, notes one experienced traveler who tested the system.

For business travelers juggling laptops, phones, and travel documents, eliminating one step from the security process reduces stress and streamlines the entire airport experience. Speaking of travel security, protecting your digital identity while traveling is just as important—consider using 1Password to securely store your travel documents and passwords. If you're looking for more ways to optimize your airport experience, check out our guide on 10 tips to avoid overpacking to speed through security even faster.

Enhanced Security

More secure: Powered by advanced technology to enhance identity verification and security. The facial recognition technology is more difficult to forge than physical documents, potentially reducing fraud and improving overall airport security.

Contactless Experience

In our post-pandemic world, reducing contact points has become increasingly important. Touchless ID eliminates the need to hand documents to TSA agents, creating a fully contactless verification process that many travelers prefer.

Limitations and Requirements

While TSA PreCheck Touchless ID offers significant benefits, it's important to understand its current limitations and requirements.

Physical ID Still Required

Even those who opt-in to the TSA PreCheck Touchless ID program must carry a physical ID and present it if asked by a TSA officer. This backup requirement ensures you can still proceed through security if the facial recognition system encounters any issues.

During the expanded pilot phase, TSA PreCheck Touchless ID participants may still be asked to show their valid U.S. government-issued photo ID or passport at security. Think of your physical ID as a backup plan rather than an unnecessary burden.

Solo Travelers Only

This system is currently only available for solo travelers and has not been expanded to families. If you're traveling with companions, including children, you'll need to use the traditional TSA PreCheck process.

However, children under 18 can use the Touchless ID lane with an eligible adult, but they must scan their boarding pass for some airlines like American.

Limited Airport and Airline Availability

The program remains in expansion mode, available only at select airports with participating airlines. If you're traveling through smaller airports or with airlines that haven't joined the program, you'll use standard TSA PreCheck procedures.

Passport Requirement

Unlike standard TSA PreCheck, which accepts various forms of identification, Touchless ID specifically requires a valid U.S. passport for the facial recognition matching process. This requirement stems from the system's reliance on passport photos for identity verification.

Annual Renewal for Some Airlines

Travelers will need to renew their enrollment in the program each year with certain airlines like American. This isn't a significant burden, but it's something to remember for frequent travelers.

Credit Cards That Cover TSA PreCheck Fees

For points and miles enthusiasts, one of the best ways to access TSA PreCheck (and by extension, Touchless ID) is through credit cards that reimburse application fees. It's free, aside from the existing membership fee required to access the TSA PreCheck lanes. For new TSA PreCheck members, TSA PreCheck starts at $78 for a five-year membership. Global Entry, which offers both PreCheck access and an expedited trip through U.S. Customs and Border Protection passport control, costs $120. Many premium travel credit cards with travel insurance also offer these fee reimbursements as additional benefits.

Premium Travel Credit Cards

Chase Sapphire Reserve® The Chase Sapphire Reserve® has a steep $795 annual fee, but also the perks to make up for it. Among them, you'll receive a reimbursement of up to $120 every four years for a Global Entry, Nexus or TSA PreCheck application fee.

The Sapphire Reserve offers exceptional value for frequent travelers through generous rewards on travel spending, flexible point transfers, and over $2,700 in potential annual perks, making it a standout choice for those who can maximize its benefits. Learn more about maximizing this card in our detailed Chase Sapphire Reserve review.

The Platinum Card® from American Express The $695 annual fee on The Platinum Card® from American Express is high, no question. But among premium travel cards, it also boasts one of the longest list of valuable perks you'll find. Included is a statement credit reimbursement of $85 for TSA PreCheck once every 4.5 years or $120 for Global Entry once every four years.

What makes the Platinum particularly valuable is that with the American Express Platinum Card, you can add The Companion Platinum Card members for no additional fee and each cardholder gets their own Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® fee credit. Check out our comprehensive Amex Platinum review to see if this card is right for you.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card The Venture X offers up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® every four years, along with premium travel benefits like lounge access and up to $300 in annual travel credits.

Mid-Tier Options

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card has a reasonable annual fee and earns flexible travel rewards, which makes it a great travel card for beginners or heavy travelers. It includes up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® with a more affordable $95 annual fee.

For those new to travel rewards credit cards, the Venture card provides an excellent entry point with meaningful benefits and straightforward earning structure. If you're comparing Chase options, our detailed Chase Sapphire Reserve vs Chase Sapphire Preferred comparison can help you decide between premium travel cards.

Business Cards

Many business credit cards also offer TSA PreCheck or Global Entry fee reimbursement, making them attractive options for business travelers who can maximize both personal and professional travel benefits. These premium cards often include additional perks like Priority Pass airport lounge access, which pairs perfectly with expedited security screening. Consider checking out our guide to the best business credit cards for travel rewards.

Maximizing Your Credit Card Strategy

Before applying for any premium travel credit card, it's smart to check your credit score and monitor your credit health. Services like Credit Karma provide free credit monitoring to help you understand where you stand before applying for new cards.

If you're interested in learning more about Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer partners or comparing premium travel cards like the Amex Platinum vs Amex Gold, our detailed guides can help you choose the right card for your travel style and spending patterns.

For those looking to maximize their earning potential, explore our complete guide to Chase Ultimate Rewards to understand how to get the most value from your points.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need to enroll with every airline separately? A: Yes, enrollment is airline-specific. If you fly with multiple participating airlines, you'll need to opt in with each airline's loyalty program individually.

Q: What happens if the facial recognition doesn't work? A: If a digital ID cannot be verified at the TSA security checkpoint, a passenger must use an acceptable physical identity document (e.g., driver's license, passport) for identity verification. You'll simply proceed through the standard TSA PreCheck process.

Q: Can I use this if I don't have a passport? A: No, a valid U.S. passport is required for TSA PreCheck Touchless ID enrollment and use.

Q: Is there an additional cost for Touchless ID? A: No, there's no additional fee beyond your existing TSA PreCheck membership and airline loyalty program membership (which is typically free).

Q: How do I know if my airport participates? A: Check with your airline before travel or look for dedicated "TSA PreCheck Touchless ID" signage at the security checkpoint. The TSA PreCheck Touchless ID indicator must appear on your mobile boarding pass to enter the dedicated TSA PreCheck Touchless ID lane.

Q: What about families traveling together? A: Everyone traveling in your party must individually opt in for Digital ID to participate in this program, including children. However, implementation varies by airline, with some allowing children to accompany adults through the Touchless ID lane.

Q: Can I opt out after enrolling? A: Yes, participation is completely voluntary and you can opt out at any time through your airline loyalty program profile.

The Future of Airport Security

TSA PreCheck Touchless ID represents just the beginning of airport security modernization. The TSA has plans to expand this technology to about 400 more airports, hinting at a future where we might not need to dig through our bags for our IDs at all.

This expansion suggests that touchless verification will become the standard rather than the exception. For frequent travelers and points enthusiasts, early adoption of these programs provides a competitive advantage in airport efficiency.

The integration of biometric technology with mobile travel applications also holds promise for real-time status updates and even more streamlined airport experiences. As airlines continue to digitize the travel experience, from mobile boarding passes to biometric verification, we're moving toward a truly seamless journey from curb to gate.

For travelers who value time and efficiency—especially those pursuing elite status or maximizing limited travel time—TSA PreCheck Touchless ID offers a glimpse into the future of stress-free airport navigation. While the program continues expanding, early adopters are already experiencing the benefits of truly hands-free security screening.

The technology also supports the broader trend toward contactless travel experiences that became important during the pandemic and continue to provide value in normal travel conditions. As more airports and airlines join the program, TSA PreCheck Touchless ID will likely become as standard as mobile boarding passes are today.

For points and miles enthusiasts, this technology adds another layer of value to TSA PreCheck membership, making it an even more compelling benefit to pursue through premium travel credit cards that offer fee reimbursement. Whether you're a weekend warrior or road warrior, the combination of time savings and convenience makes TSA PreCheck Touchless ID a worthwhile upgrade to your travel toolkit.

Looking for more ways to streamline your travel experience? Check out our essential carry-on items guide and learn about the ultimate guide to airport lounge etiquette to make your entire journey more efficient.

Ready to Upgrade Your Airport Security Experience?

TSA PreCheck Touchless ID represents the future of airport security—faster, more convenient, and completely contactless. If you're already a TSA PreCheck member flying with participating airlines, enrollment takes just minutes and could save you valuable time on every trip. For those new to expedited security screening, TSA PreCheck remains one of the best travel investments you can make, especially when paired with a premium travel credit card that covers the application fee.

The program continues expanding to new airports monthly, making it increasingly likely that your next trip will offer this seamless security experience. In a world where every minute at the airport matters, TSA PreCheck Touchless ID delivers exactly what frequent travelers want: less hassle, more efficiency, and a glimpse into the future of frictionless travel.

- Featured Image Credit: Upgraded Points LLC