As TSA lines get longer and the situation at U.S. airports becomes more uncertain, there’s a method for flyers hoping to fast-pass security wait times. In addition to keeping tabs on TSA wait-time trackers, which are often available on individual airports’ websites, air travelers can also enroll in the TSA PreCheck Touchless ID program, a verification process that uses biometrics similar to Clear.
The program’s facial identification technology leads to “faster, more efficient identity verification,” says TSA. At airports where it’s currently in use, travelers are queued in separate Touchless ID lanes at security checkpoints, and they typically have the shortest of all waits.
TSA says Touchless ID is currently available at 65 airports, but flyers must opt into the program through whichever airline they’re using. To be eligible for enrollment, a flyer must already have TSA PreCheck and an active frequent flyer profile with an airline participating in Touchless ID. The flyer must also have uploaded valid passport information to that profile.
Right now, five airlines are participating in the program: Alaska, American, Delta, Southwest and United. Each has a slightly different opt-in process.
Here’s how to sign up.
People flying on Alaska Airlines who are interested in enrolling in Touchless ID must have an Atmost Rewards account, according to the airline. To enroll, they should follow these steps:
American Airlines flyers must also have a rewards account with the airline in order to opt into Touchless ID, the airline says. American requires flyers to opt in every year. To enroll, they should:
Delta allows flyers with SkyMiles accounts to opt into Touchless ID. To enroll in the program, the airline says passengers should:
Travelers flying Southwest can opt into Touchless ID through their Rapid Rewards account, the airline says. They can enroll by:
United passengers interested in opting into Touchless ID must have a Mileage Plus account, according to the airline. They should follow these steps to enroll:
Touchless ID is available at 65 airports located across the United States. TSA shared a map with their locations to its website.
Here is a table showing TSA wait times at major airports:
