Signing up for TSA PreCheck is one of the easiest ways to save time in the security line at U.S. airports. The downside is that you have to apply for the program, and only travelers who meet eligibility requirements will be approved. Plus, it costs $85 for a five-year membership (though some credit cards cover the fee). Starting this month, however, you’ll get a new benefit with your membership. It’s called Gateside by TSA PreCheck, and it allows you to get past the security checkpoint at select airports without a boarding pass. Here’s how it works.

Gateside by TSA PreCheck

Remember walking family and friends to the boarding gate before their flight or meeting them there as soon as they stepped off the plane? For the most part, that hasn’t been possible since the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. But with the TSA’s new program, PreCheck members can clear security even if they aren’t flying — and it’s completely free.

To take advantage of the program, you must first be a TSA PreCheck member with a Known Traveler Number (KTN). Then, at least one day before you plan to visit an eligible airport (more on that below) and no more than three days in advance, you’ll need to apply online for a pass on the Gateside by TSA PreCheck website. You can use your existing login.gov account or create a new one if you don’t have one. Return to your application dashboard to check your approval status.

Once you’re approved, head to the TSA PreCheck lanes at the airport. The TSA notes that officers may ask to see your dashboard on the Gateside website portal, so have your mobile device showing your approved Gateside pass status ready. (Printouts and screenshots won’t be accepted.)

You’ll also need to present your acceptable form of ID to the officer at the checkpoint to access the terminal. (Remember that the TSA began enforcing REAL ID requirements last year — if you don’t have an acceptable form of identification, you’ll have to pay a $45 fee.) 

Passes are valid for a single calendar day, and you can enter and leave as many times as you’d like during that day. Children without PreCheck can also visit the terminal with you, as long as you add them to your application in advance. 

Where Is It Available?

While many people consider airports stressful and avoid them at all costs, others may want to meet a friend during their long layover, do some shopping, or grab a meal in the terminal — especially since many airports are upping their game when it comes to food options. 

Unfortunately, availability of the new program is limited, at least to start. Currently, 13 airports are participating in Gateside by TSA PreCheck — but the good news is the TSA says it will be rolling out to more airports in the future. At the time of publication, it is available at the following airports:

• Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) – Arizona 
• John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) – Ohio
• Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) – Texas 
• Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) – Michigan 
• Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) – Kansas
• Indianapolis International Airport (IND) – Indiana 
• Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) – Nevada 
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – California 
• Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT) – Arkansas
• Will Rogers International Airport (OKC) – Oklahoma
• Eppley Airfield (OMA) – Nebraska
• San Diego International Airport (SAN) – California 
• Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) – Utah  

However, the TSA notes on the program’s website that availability access may be limited during peak times.  

Similar Programs at Other U.S. Airports

Not a TSA PreCheck member? This new program isn’t the only way to access the terminal without a boarding pass. More than a dozen U.S. airports offer their own visitor pass programs, which are separate from Gateside by TSA PreCheck. 

The application process and requirements to be approved vary by airport, but you can find more information with links to each program in this article.

Additionally, you may be able to obtain a gate pass to access the terminal without a plane ticket directly from an airline. Many major U.S. airlines — including Alaska, American, Delta, JetBlue, Spirit, Southwest, and United — offer these passes to nonpassengers assisting minors, seniors, passengers with disabilities, or military members. 

Featured image credit: Credit: © Al Drago—Getty Images News/Getty Images