The Transportation Security Administration has formally proposed a major expansion of its trusted traveler framework that would allow air passengers to verify their identity using a mobile-based digital credential supported by biometric data and interconnected federal databases.
The plan, outlined in a notice published in the Federal Register, would introduce a new option known as the MyTSA PreCheck ID. The digital credential would extend the existing PreCheck program into a mobile format, enabling participating travelers to store and present an identity credential on their personal devices while undergoing airport security screening.
Under the proposal, travelers choosing to activate the digital ID would be required to submit additional biographic and biometric information beyond what is currently collected during standard PreCheck enrollment. This expanded data set would include fingerprints and facial imagery, in addition to core identifiers such as legal name, date of birth, and citizenship status.
TSA stated that biometric information collected through the program would be incorporated into Department of Homeland Security systems for continuous identity verification while individuals remain enrolled. Fingerprints and facial data would be compared against Federal Bureau of Investigation records through the FBI’s Next Generation Identification system, with ongoing monitoring conducted via the bureau’s Rap Back service, which alerts agencies to updates or changes in criminal history records.
The biometric data would also be integrated into DHS’s Automated Biometric Identification System, which supports identity confirmation and vetting functions across multiple federal components, including airport security operations.
The MyTSA PreCheck ID proposal accompanies the agency’s recently finalized ConfirmID initiative, a separate fee-based service for travelers who arrive at airport checkpoints without a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification. TSA is seeking approval from the Office of Management and Budget to revise its public data collection processes to support the expanded identity programs.
In addition to the digital credential, TSA plans to introduce a centralized Customer Service Portal designed to consolidate traveler interactions with trusted traveler programs. Users would access the portal through Login.gov, the federal government’s shared authentication platform, allowing them to upload documentation, manage enrollment details, and adjust participation preferences.
The proposal also describes a data-sharing arrangement with U.S. Customs and Border Protection that would allow biographic and biometric information collected for PreCheck to be reused for Global Entry enrollment if travelers elect to participate. TSA said the approach is intended to reduce duplication across trusted traveler programs by allowing shared use of previously collected data.
Over a three-year period, TSA projects that the revised system will process information from more than 25 million individuals, representing an estimated 4.7 million administrative hours annually. Enrollment and renewal fees would remain unchanged, with applications priced at $80, online renewals at $70, and in-person renewals at $75.
The ConfirmID program is scheduled to begin on February 1 and will offer travelers a way to verify their identity for a $45 fee if they arrive at a checkpoint without proper identification. The verification process can be initiated online prior to arrival at the airport.
“TSA ConfirmID will be an option for travelers that do not bring a REAL ID or other acceptable form of ID to the TSA checkpoint and still want to fly,” said Adam Stahl, the senior official performing the duties of TSA deputy administrator. He said the fee structure is intended to discourage travelers from arriving unprepared while still allowing them to complete their journey.
TSA is accepting public comments on the proposed data collection and digital identity changes through March 16 as part of the federal review process.
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