Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced a limited-time promotion offering $20 off new TSA PreCheck memberships for travelers age 30 and under. The “$20 Take Off” deal runs from May 1 through May 31, just as summer travel and graduation season begin to ramp up.For those eligible, that drops the cost of a five-year TSA PreCheck membership to between $56.75 and $65, depending on which enrollment provider you choose. Not bad for something that can save you time on every trip for the next five years. Especially, during times when TSA are not being paid and the lines are wrapped around the corner.
Why TSA PreCheck is worth it
If you travel even a couple of times a year, TSA PreCheck can make a noticeable difference. Instead of standing in long security lines and juggling bins, you move through a much faster, simplified screening process.
According to TSA, 99% of PreCheck passengers wait less than 10 minutes in line. Even better, you don’t have to:
- Take out laptops or liquids
- Remove belts or light jackets
How to get the discount
The promotion is available through TSA PreCheck’s three authorized enrollment providers:
You can start the application online and then finish it in person at one of more than 1,300 enrollment locations nationwide, including many convenient retail locations. Most applicants get approved within a few days.
A few quick tips
If you qualify, it’s worth taking advantage of this deal now rather than waiting. Even occasional travelers can easily justify the cost based on time saved alone.
Also keep in mind:
- Kids traveling with you can usually use TSA PreCheck lanes for free
- Some credit cards reimburse the application fee (though this discount may already beat that)
- Only apply through official websites—look for “.gov” to avoid scams
Without a doubt, airport security isn’t getting any faster, especially during the summer travel season. This limited-time discount is an easy win for younger travelers looking to speed things up and reduce stress at the airport.
Is it worth getting TSA Precheck if I’m over 70 and only travel once or twice a year?
Short answer: yes, for most people it’s still worth it even if you only fly once or twice a year, but it depends on how much you value convenience versus cost.
Here’s a clear way to think about it for someone over 70 who travels lightly:
👍 Why it can be worth it
Costs about $85 for 5 years (around $17 a year)
You usually get shorter lines and less hassle at security
You often don’t need to remove belts or take out laptops and liquids
It can reduce stress, especially in busy airports or peak travel times
Many travelers say even occasional use makes trips easier and smoother
👎 When it might not be worth it
If you truly only fly once every year or two, you may not use it enough to notice much benefit
Smaller airports or off-peak travel already have short lines
Some travelers feel the savings in time are minimal if trips are rare
🧭 Simple rule of thumb
Worth it: if you fly at least once a year and dislike airport stress
Maybe skip it: if you rarely fly and don’t mind standard security lines
My practical take
For an older traveler, the value is less about “saving time” and more about reducing friction and physical hassle at security. If that matters, it’s one of the cheapest travel upgrades you can get.