Is TSA PreCheck operational during the shutdown?

PreCheck remains available at many airports, Global Entry affected

Confusion over federal guidance during a partial Department of Homeland Security funding lapse left travelers unsure whether expedited screening programs would run. After mixed public signals, airport operations managers and the Transportation Security Administration moved to keep TSA PreCheck functioning at staffed checkpoints in most airports. By contrast, Global Entry services — the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that speeds international arrivals — have seen more significant interruptions.

The practical impact on travelers:

• Domestic security lines: passengers with active PreCheck tend to continue receiving expedited screening where lanes are staffed and systems are up. However, staffing shortages and shifting policies can cause sporadic lane closures and longer waits.
• International arrivals: Global Entry kiosks and enrollments have been curtailed in some locations, and travelers should expect longer processing times at passport control if Global Entry services are unavailable.
• Program enrollments and renewals: applicants and renewals may face delays; interview scheduling and online processing can be paused until normal CBP operations resume.

What to do before you travel:

• Confirm status: check TSA and CBP official pages for updates and the airport’s advisories before leaving for the airport.
• Allow extra time: plan to arrive earlier than usual in case expedited lanes are limited or closed.
• Carry documentation: have boarding passes, IDs, and passport documents ready to speed manual checks.

Short-term operations are fluid and could change with new guidance from DHS or CBP. Travelers should monitor official channels and be prepared for occasional longer security and customs waits despite enrollment in expedited programs.