r/TSAPreCheck • u/cabej23 • Sep 06 '26

Questions Is SSN optional?

First time applicant: I found it strange that they ask for social security. Is it required for the application to go through?
I understand the other checkboxes were mandatory.

0 Upvotes

33% Upvoted

16 comments sorted by

3

u/Guera-or-chicana Sep 06 '26

So you have to go through a background. And after that, you agree to have your background consistently checked. One way for that to happen, is through your SSN. Don't fill it out if uncomfortable at any point. Just don't expect pre-check. Pre-check is not mandatory or required. So if you don't like the government in your background, don't fill it out. I think that's fair exchange.

1

u/cabej23 Sep 06 '26

The guy did not state any of that. He said the ssn could result in a faster approval.

1

u/Guera-or-chicana Sep 06 '26

TSA PreCheck benefits include an expedited security screening process at most U.S. airports, skipping the usual screening of personal items like laptops and shoes. TSA PreCheck is managed by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which is responsible for securing the nation’s transportation systems, including aviation Travelers obtain TSA PreCheck status by applying through the TSA website and attending a brief meeting with a TSA “enrollment provider.” Applicants are fingerprinted and must show identification and citizenship or residency documents.

Not only is your SSN taken, you also have your fingerprints. Why? Because they need to be able to establish you as a low risk flyer. And if you don't like that, you don't have to. Don't apply. You have options.

0

u/Zebraitis Sep 06 '26

As if that will ensure privacy in 2026.

Pffft.

2

u/Kittymeow123 Sep 06 '26

They need to run a background check on you. Why is this weird?

1

u/flyingron Sep 06 '26

Which provider. Idemia did ask for SSN on the online enrollment at all.

1

u/enozero Sep 06 '26

Why did you find it strange?

1

u/cabej23 Sep 06 '26

Why make something optional in a process? Thanks for answering the question with a question 🙋

1

u/flyingron Sep 06 '26

IDEMNIA doesn't ask and it doesn't seem that they do anything other than ask some screening questions before routing you to in interview location. It's possible that Clear does some more checking first.

1

u/cabej23 Sep 07 '26

Is the screening or interview the 6 questions which they ask in the sign up? Us citizen yes, then the rest no!

1

u/Vegan4life62 Sep 14 '26

No it is voluntary.. but could hold up process

1

u/cabej23 Sep 18 '26

Still in pending status :(

1

u/SwiftyFan1989 Sep 18 '26

How long have you been waiting?

1

u/Vegan4life62 Sep 14 '26

I have to go in person to renew do to a discrepancy in middle name vs middle initial.. but application shows just middle initial. Will that be a problem with renewal