LYNCHBURG, Va. (WSET) — As thousands of Americans prepare for the holiday travel season, AAA wants to help them reduce wait times at airports.
AAA is holding multiple events throughout Central Virginia to help people register and get approved.
AAA spokeswoman Morgan Dean said this could help relieve stress at airports as travel numbers return to record highs.
“You just have to look at the TSA checkpoints this year,” Dean said. “The 10 busiest days for passengers at these checkpoints in TSA’s 20-plus years all happened this summer. That shows it’s off the charts. We’ll do whatever we can to make it faster, and I think most passengers will immediately stand up and say, yeah, I can do it.”
According to Dean, this process helps you avoid the extremely long security lines that typically require you to take off your shoes, belt, and remove all your electronics from your bag.
“It’s basically a pre-screening process, so when you get to the airport, you can get in a quick, short line and get through all the security at the airport,” Dean said.
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Dean said this option primarily requires you to have a passport in order to be approved. If you don’t have one, you will need multiple forms of identification to get approved, he said.
“It all starts with signing up online and setting up a reservation at your event,” says Dean. “Then we gather the necessary documents. Once you’re on the job, you meet with an IDEMIA representative who walks you through the process. They walk you through the process, review the documents, and sign off.” If so, you can usually get a known traveler number within 3-5 days. ”
Dean said this option is really worth the money if you fly home or take frequent vacations.
“TSA prescreening is valid for five years and costs $78, which you pay when you arrive at your appointment,” Dean said. “After that point you can renew at the current price.”
AAA will be holding two events locally as pre-check meetings:
Roanoke – 13736 Town Square Blvd November 5-7 Lynchburg – 717 Wards Ferry Road November 12-15
Click here to apply for TSA Pre-Check through AAA.
