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What is a Known Traveler Number (ktn number)?

When reserving flights, you’ve likely observed that there’s a check box in which you can input your Known Traveler Number (KTN). And if you’re new to TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, you are probably wondering what a Known Traveler Number is, how it works, and why you don’t have anything to fill in your TSA PreCheck or Global Entry number yet. Well, here’s everything you need to quench your curiosity.

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What is a known traveler number?

A Known Traveler Number (KTN),  also commonly referred to as a Trusted Traveler Number, is a special number designated to travelers by the United States Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), or Department of Defense (DoD). This number qualifies that you had gone through a preflight history test or different screening before checking in for a flight.

Why do you need it?

Having a Known Traveler Number when reserving a flight increases the probability of you using the TSAs PreCheck safety screening lanes at partner U.S. airports substantially. Your KTN also lets you utilize expedited customs processing at some participating airports in case you are a Global Entry member.

Your Known Traveler Number is like your club membership/ registration to a Trusted Traveler Program. A known traveler designation is what permits you to get the right of entry to TSA PreCheck safety lanes and Global Entry lanes. This is, however, subject to the Trusted Traveler Program you are a member of.

Getting a Known Traveler Number

There are certain programs you have to participate in to be eligible for a Known Traveler Number. These are:

You don’t have to fly regularly to know how much of a headache airport clearing processes are. Those who have gone through a TSA PreCheck will vouch for how different it is from the conventional airport clearance experience. 

If this is your first time coming across this information, a TSA PreCheck Program is one of five trusted traveler programs. Of the five, four are meant for individual and business travel, but one program—FAST, is exclusive to commercial trucking businesses. 

While the other programs are administered privately, TSA PreCheck is done by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Since the program began in 2001, the program has been making it easy for low-risk travelers to get through a security checkpoint, and many airlines have signed up for TSA PreCheck.  

On busy days your Spirit Airlines Known Traveler Number or Norwegian TSA PreCheck or Known traveler number from a  participating airline will mean that you may not have to take what you had packed through security.  That said, you need to complete a membership application and await approval. Once approved, you get a 5-year active membership, which you can renew.

Global Entry is an expedited screening arrangement for persons coming into the U.S. from an overseas country. It basically pre-screens or does a background check on an applying member for potential red flags. This involves examining whether they have a criminal record in order to decide whether or not, now or in the future, the applicant might pose a threat to the country. 

Global entry comes with a TSA PreCheck; hence if you are flying internationally, you can use your American Airlines known traveler number, air France TSA PreCheck, or JetBlue redress number, among many other Global entry programs from participating airlines. 

A Global Entry interview happens at an enrollment center which you will find in major international airports globally. It involves some biometrics and a physical interview with a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer but once approved, you, too, can use a KTN number on your next flight. 

Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection (SENTRI) is a trusted traveler’s program that provides modified security control processes for its members who have been approved prior to travel. SENTRI also offers significant improvements in overall security by making controls more efficient. 

If you are on SENTRI,  you can get into the U.S. through special lanes at select Southern land border ports. Another plus is that approved SENTRI participants can use NEXUS lanes when coming into the U.S. from Canada by land. 

Using the SENTRI lane when entering through border points will make your traveling easy, but you can also add it as your KTN number when reserving a flight. It will also benefit you when getting into an airline’s frequent traveler program. A SENTRI pass will work in other countries like Germany, the Netherlands, UK, Panama, and Taiwan.

NEXUS provides a modified security process for pre-approved members;  it is a nice way to beat the queues and be on your seat quickly. NEXUS, unlike SENTRI, is exclusive to those entering the  United States or Canada. There are dedicated NEXUS lanes at airports and other points of entry, even by sea.

Simply ask for the NEXUS line at the point of entry to avoid the long wait times at security checks.  To be eligible for NEXUS, you have to be a citizen or lawful resident of either the U.S. or Canada or a Mexican national who is a member of Viajero Confiable.

How do I know if I have a known traveler number?

You will only know you have a Known Traveler Number once you have applied for it and are confirmed by the issuing authority. You can check your KTN online or at the back of your NEXUS, SENTRI, or Global Entry Card.

That said, you must know that in the interest of security, the TSA randomizes checks, and sometimes even with a KTN number, you have to go through a security check.

You may also be subject to a check, your TSA PreCheck notwithstanding, if your names don’t match or you enter an incorrect KTN number. Once you iron out issues like booking through an agent or saving your KTN number on your frequent flyer profile, your KTN status is meant to be used.

Feel free to ask for directions to the KTN designated lanes at any participating airport and go straight through security. Always add it to your reservation record, and even when you print your ticket, you will see it indicated in your ticket. Your TSA PreCheck also makes it easy for the airline to make a follow-up if you have a problem on a flight since TSA retains the data for a while—3 days after you fly.

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Known Traveler Number program: What is it, and should you get 1?

Editor's Note

When you travel, there are a few pieces of information you probably like to keep handy, including your frequent flyer number, your passport number and your trip confirmation number.

However, another number comes into play if you have TSA PreCheck or Global Entry : your Known Traveler Number. It's an important number that ensures access to the TSA PreCheck lanes .

Here's what to know about getting a KTN, how to find it and how to ensure it's attached to your flight reservations.

What is a Known Traveler Number?

A KTN is a nine-digit code each TSA PreCheck and Global Entry member receives from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security upon approval for one of those two programs. Members of a couple of other Trusted Traveler programs get a KTN as well.

The code may be a combination of both letters and numbers. It's your identification number that proves you're a member of one of these programs and shows that you are eligible to use the TSA PreCheck lanes at U.S. airports.

Travelers with a KTN have gone through an application and screening process , and they are known and recognized as travelers by the U.S. government.

Should you apply for a Known Traveler Number?

Getting a KTN is helpful for air travel because if you have one, it means you're a member of a program that gets you shorter wait times.

A KTN is your key to access the TSA PreCheck lanes. These lanes typically have shorter lines and allow members to undergo a less intrusive screening process than the standard lanes. About 99% of TSA PreCheck customers wait 10 minutes or less at security, according to the Transportation Security Administration.

There are several ways to get a KTN through different Trusted Traveler programs run by the DHS. Each program requires travelers to submit an application and go through an interview process. Those interviews generally occur in person at enrollment centers for first-time applicants, with many enrollment centers located at airports. The government is allowing virtual interviews for certain applicants, often those seeking to renew their membership.

Each program that provides travelers with a KTN has a fee, and memberships in all programs are valid for five years. Many credit cards also offer application fee credits for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck .

TSA PreCheck

If you've applied for TSA PreCheck, gone through the screening process and received confirmation of your approval into the program, you'll receive a KTN from the government.

TSA PreCheck offers a fast-tracked security experience for its members. When going through the TSA PreCheck lanes, you generally won't have to remove your shoes, take laptops or liquids out of your bag, or go through the full-body scanner.

The application fee is $78 for first-time applicants.

Related: Denied for Global Entry or PreCheck? Here's how to appeal

Global Entry

If you've received your TSA PreCheck membership by applying for Global Entry, you'll receive your KTN through your Global Entry membership.

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program that allows travelers designated as low-risk by the U.S. government to use faster customs lines when returning to the U.S. from abroad. Members also get access to TSA PreCheck.

The fee for an application to this program is $100.

If you're planning to travel internationally and within the U.S. multiple times in the next five years, Global Entry is probably your best bet since it gets you expedited screening both at customs and at TSA checkpoints for only $22 more than a standard TSA PreCheck membership.

Related: 13 things you need to know about Global Entry

Nexus and SENTRI

The DHS has two other Trusted Traveler programs for travelers entering the U.S. from Canada and/or Mexico. Nexus and SENTRI also provide members with TSA PreCheck access and, thus, a KTN.

Nexus allows pre-screened travelers to use expedited processing when entering the U.S. from Canada by air or land. The fee for this program's application is $50.

SENTRI allows pre-screened travelers expedited entry into the U.S. from Canada and Mexico by air, land or sea. The application fee for this program is $122.25.

How do you add a Known Traveler Number to your travel bookings?

Once approved for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, Nexus or SENTRI, you'll have to follow one additional step to ensure "TSA PreCheck" is printed on your boarding pass: You have to attach your number to your airline profile.

If you're just looking to attach your number to a single reservation, you can typically do this when filling out your personal information at checkout when booking a flight. However, we recommend always flying with a frequent flyer account to earn miles .

If you have a frequent flyer account, you can attach your KTN right to the personal information section of your airline profile. Once you do this, your KTN should be automatically added to each booking you make with that airline, as you include your frequent flyer number on the reservation. You typically can add your KTN to an existing reservation, too.

What to do if you forgot to add a KTN to your flight

If you already booked a flight and forgot to add your Known Traveler Number to your reservation, don't fret. You should be able to easily pull up your reservation and add your KTN.

Go to the airline's website or mobile app. Pull up your reservation using the confirmation number (or record locator) the airline gave you when you booked your trip. Then, go to the traveler information section. There should be a line that says "Known Traveler Number," "KTN" or "Secure Traveler Information." That's where you put your KTN.

If you've already checked in for your flight and downloaded your boarding pass, you may need to re-download the boarding pass to see "TSA PreCheck" appear.

Related: What to do if a boarding pass isn't marked TSA PreCheck

Where can you find your Known Traveler Number?

The time when you'll most likely need your KTN handy is when booking a flight or updating your airline profile. This goes for new members of TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, SENTRI or Nexus, as well as existing members who might be flying with an airline for the first time since joining one of those programs.

With all the numbers, passwords and accounts we have to keep track of in our lives, it's easy to lose your KTN ... and most of us probably don't know our number by heart. Fortunately, there are a few ways to locate it.

If you're a standard TSA PreCheck member looking to track down your number, you can use this page from the DHS to put in your personal information and look up your number.

If you received your KTN through the Global Entry program, you have a couple of options. If you have your physical Global Entry card, check the backside. Your nine-digit "PASSID" is your KTN; it may start with "15," "98" or "99."

Another way to locate your Known Traveler Number is to log in to your Global Entry or other Trusted Traveler Program account. There, you should be able to see which program you're enrolled in, as well as your membership number/PASSID, which, again, is your KTN. You should also be able to see when your membership expires.

An additional option for tracking down your number is to check your frequent flyer account for an airline you've recently flown with. If your membership in one of the Trusted Traveler programs is active and you've used TSA PreCheck before, odds are your KTN is on file with one or more airlines you regularly fly.

For this option, you'll need to go to your airline profile. If your KTN is in your profile, you should see it listed under your personal information.

Bottom line

A Known Traveler Number is a code that gets you into the TSA PreCheck lane. It's how the airline and government recognize a trusted traveler who is a member of TSA PreCheck, Global Entry or other similar programs.

Keep your number handy and add it to your airline profile. If you're not a member, consider enrolling in one of these programs that gives you a KTN and makes your trip through the airport less of a hassle.

Related reading:

• When is the best time to book flights for the cheapest airfare?
• The best airline credit cards
• What exactly are airline miles, anyway?
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• Maximize your airfare: The best credit cards for booking flights
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Government of Canada Launches Redress System for the Secure Air Travel Act list – the “Canadian Travel Number”

From: Public Safety Canada

News release

Today, the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, the Honourable Bill Blair, announced the launch of the Canadian Travel Number (CTN).

November 18, 2020 Ottawa, Ontario The Government of Canada is committed to keeping Canadians safe while protecting their rights and freedoms. Today, the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, the Honourable Bill Blair, announced the launch of the Canadian Travel Number (CTN). Those who have the same, or similar, name as someone on the Secure Air Travel Act (SATA) list (commonly referred to as Canada’s ‘no fly list’) sometimes face delays at the airport because they are falsely flagged by it. The CTN is a unique number that travellers can apply for, and when used during flight booking, may reduce the potential for delays later at airport check in. Travellers who think they have travel delays related to the SATA list can learn more, and apply for a CTN, through the Public Safety website. The Canadian Travel Number is delivering on a longstanding commitment to improve air security to the families impacted by the issue. This program was made possible through extensive consultation, the adoption of the National Security Act (the former Bill C-59) in 2019, as well as updates to the Secure Air Travel Act and Regulations.

“ Canadians should feel safe and free from discrimination at all times, but especially during security screening at the airport - a system designed to ensure their protection. The new  Canadian Travel Number will reduce delays due to the SATA list and relieve the emotional distress of those who have been impacted by this .” - The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness

Quick facts

Once received, travellers will be able to use their CTN when air carriers start to accept them at the end of November 2020.  

The SATA list is a list of people for whom the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness (or delegate) has determined there are reasonable grounds to suspect they could be a threat to aviation and/or national security and intend to travel by air for the purpose of terrorism.  

Related products

• Government of Canada Reaches Key Milestone to Strengthen Air Travel Security

Associated links

• Canada.ca/passenger-protect
• Canada.ca/Canadian-travel-number

Mary-Liz Power Press Secretary Office of the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness [email protected] Media Relations Public Safety Canada 613-991-0657 [email protected]  

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I forgot my Known Traveler Number (KTN). How do I find it?

If you are a member of the TSA PreCheck® Application Program, look up your Known Traveler Number (KTN) here .

 If you are a member of another trusted traveler program, such as Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI, log on to the Trusted Traveler Program website to obtain your PASSID, which is your KTN.

If your TSA PreCheck® benefits come through HME, TWIC®, or DoD, please visit these respective links for additional information: HME ,  TWIC® ,  DoD .

If your TSA PreCheck® benefit comes through TSA PreCheck® for DHS employees, please visit TSA PreCheck® for DHS Employees | TSA PreCheck® for additional information.

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Known Traveler Number: Here’s What You Need To Know [2024]

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If you’re new to TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, you may be wondering what a Known Traveler Number (KTN) is, how it works, and why there’s a KTN box when booking flights, but there isn’t one for your TSA PreCheck or Global Entry number. Here’s what you should know about your KTN.

What Is a Known Traveler Number?

Your Known Traveler Number is your membership number with a Trusted Traveler Program. This number is what allows you to access TSA PreCheck security lanes and Global Entry lanes (depending on which Trusted Traveler Program you join).

How To Get a Known Traveler Number

To acquire a Known Traveler Number, you must participate in one of the Trusted Traveler Programs. These are:

• Global Entry
• TSA PreCheck

Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are by far the most popular options in the U.S. The NEXUS and SENTRI programs also provide a Known Traveler Number, though these programs are much less commonly used in the U.S.

Credit Cards That Reimburse for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, and/or NEXUS Application Fees

Many premium credit cards will reimburse you for the application fee for either Global Entry or TSA PreCheck (including American Express, Capital One, Chase, and Citi, which all provide cards that offer an application fee reimbursement).

The Platinum Card ® from American Express

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card ® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card  is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access , hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

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• Annual and monthly statement credits upon enrollment ( airline credit, Uber Cash credit, Saks Fifth Avenue credit, streaming credit, prepaid hotel credit on eligible stays, Walmart+ credit, CLEAR credit, and Equinox credit )
• TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit
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• Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
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• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card ® .
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $300 back in statement credits per calendar year on an Equinox membership, or an Equinox club membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you pay with your Platinum Card ® . Enrollment required. Visit https://platinum.equinox.com/ to enroll.
• $189 CLEAR ® Plus Credit: Breeze through security with CLEAR Plus at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Platinum Card ® . Learn more.
• $100 Global Entry Credit: Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck ® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card ® . Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card ® . That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• $300 SoulCycle At-Home Bike Credit: Get a $300 statement credit for the purchase of a SoulCycle at-home bike with your Platinum Card ® . An Equinox+ subscription is required to purchase a SoulCycle at-home bike and access SoulCycle content. Must charge full price of bike in one transaction. Shipping available in the contiguous U.S. only. Enrollment Required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card ® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.

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The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express is a premium travel rewards card tailored toward business owners who are frequent travelers with a high number of annual expenses.

When you factor in the large number of perks that the card offers like the best airport lounge access at over 1,400 lounges , along with tons of annual credits, it’s easy to see why this card can is a top option for frequent traveling business owners.

Hot Tip:  Check to see if you’re eligible for a huge welcome bonus offer of up to 170,000 points with the Amex Business Platinum. The current public offer is 120,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

• 5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on flights and prepaid hotels at Amex Travel
• Up to $200 annual airline fee credit on your selected qualifying airline
• Statement credits on select purchases with your card
• 35% airline bonus when using Pay With Points (up to 1,000,000 bonus points per calendar year)
• Access to over 1,400 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
• Get 50% more Membership Rewards points (1.5 points per $1) on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (cap applies)
• Access to Amex’s Fine Hotels & Resorts program
• High annual fee of $695 ( rates and fees )
• Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags
• Welcome Offer: Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards ® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
• 5X Membership Rewards ® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
• Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
• Unlock over $1,000 in annual statement credits on a curation of business purchases, including select purchases made with Dell Technologies, Indeed, Adobe, and U.S. wireless service providers.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year for incidental fees charged by your one selected, qualifying airline to your Card.
• $189 CLEAR ® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $189 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR ® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Business Platinum Card ® .
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection ® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
• $695 Annual Fee.
• APR: 19.49% - 27.49% Variable
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Chase Sapphire Reserve ®

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve ®  is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access , with excellent point earning and redemption options.  Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

• 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
• 10x points on Lyft purchases March 31, 2025
• 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025
• 5x points on airfare booked through Chase Travel SM
• 3x points on all other travel and dining purchases; 1x point on all other purchases
• $300 annual travel credit
• Priority Pass airport lounge access
• TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or NEXUS credit
• Access to Chase Luxury Hotel and Resort Collection
• Rental car elite status with National and Avis
• $550 annual fee
• Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck ®
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more
• Member FDIC
• APR: 22.49%-29.49% Variable

Chase Ultimate Rewards

• Chase Sapphire Reserve 100k Bonus Offer
• Chase Sapphire Reserve Benefits
• Chase Sapphire Reserve Airport Lounge Access
• Chase Sapphire Reserve Travel Insurance Benefits
• Chase Sapphire Reserve Military Benefits
• Amex Gold vs Chase Sapphire Reserve
• Chase Sapphire Preferred vs Reserve

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card   is one of the most popular rewards cards on the market. It’s perfect for anyone in search of a great welcome offer, high rewards rates, and flexible redemption options.

Frequent travelers with excellent credit may benefit from this credit card that offers a lot of bells and whistles. And it offers easy-to-understand rewards earning and redemption.

• 5x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases
• No foreign transaction fees ( rates & fees )
• Access to Capital One transfer partners
• $95 annual fee ( rates & fees )
• Limited elite benefits
• Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck ®
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• APR: 19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Capital One Miles

• How To Find the 75k or 100k Bonus for the Capital One Venture
• Travel Insurance Benefits of the Capital One Venture
• Capital One Venture vs Venture X
• Capital One Venture Card vs. Capital One VentureOne Card [Detailed Comparison]
• Chase Sapphire Preferred vs Capital One Venture
• Best Capital One Credit Cards
• Best Travel Credit Cards
• Best Everyday Credit Cards
• Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Supermarkets
• Best Credit Card Sign Up Bonuses
• Best High Limit Credit Cards
• Capital One vs. Citi Credit Cards – Which Is Best? [2024]
• Recommended Minimum Requirements for Capital One Credit Cards

Since several cards offer this benefit, consider the other benefits of your credit card options before you choose one. Look at the points they earn, trip delay protection, purchase protection, elite status, or airport lounge access.

If your priority is earning tons of valuable (and transferable!) points, you might choose the Chase Sapphire Reserve card . It earns 5x points on air travel and 10x points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel, 10x points on Lyft (through March 2025), 3x points on all other travel, and it comes with a Priority Pass Select membership for lounge access. You’ll also receive a $300 travel credit that is automatically applied to your first $300 in travel purchases each cardmember year (this includes taxis, Uber , Lyft , train tickets, flights, hotels, and more).

If airport lounge access and elite status are your top priorities, the Amex Platinum card and Amex Business Platinum card provide world-class lounge access , including Centurion Lounges and Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta), on top of a Priority Pass Select membership upon enrollment. Cardholders also receive elite status with both Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy upon enrollment. To top it off, you’ll earn 5x Membership Rewards points when booking flights directly with an airline.

And for travelers who value simplicity in earning and redeeming their rewards along with a reasonable annual fee, consider the Capital One Venture X card . It earns 2x Capital One miles on all purchases and comes with the lowest annual fee among the most popular premium credit cards.

Whichever card you choose, all you have to do is use it to pay for the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee, and you’ll automatically be reimbursed.

How To Find Your Known Traveler Number

Hot Tip: You can find your PASSID  (also known as your Known Traveler Number) on the back of your Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI card.

If you only have TSA PreCheck, log in to the Trusted Traveler Program website to access your PASSID/Known Traveler Number. If you lose your Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI card, you can use the Trusted Traveler Program site to find the number.

How To Add Your Known Traveler Number to Bookings

While it might not be apparent at first, you’ll be happy to know that your TSA PreCheck or Global Entry number is, in fact, your Known Traveler Number. Simply enter your Known Traveler Number in the appropriate field when booking your flight. This can also be done later — even at the check-in desk at the airport.

The vast majority of the time, you do not need to carry your Global Entry card to access the airport’s TSA PreCheck or Global Entry lanes. That said, there have been some recent reports of travelers being asked to show their physical card. This appears to happen most at airports that allow travelers with Global Entry to preclear security, especially for flights departing from Canada. It also may happen when entering the U.S. by car via NEXUS or SENTRI lanes.

Hot Tip:  Unlike when returning from most countries, if you want to access Global Entry lanes when returning from Canada, you will need your physical Global Entry card with you.

Global Entry or TSA PreCheck: Which One Is Right for You?

As anyone who’s been through airport security knows, it can be a frustrating hassle. To expedite the screening process  at many U.S. airports, TSA PreCheck access provides a much better experience. If you are returning to the U.S. from an international destination, Global Entry can make getting through customs a breeze.

If you mainly travel within the U.S., you might think that you only need to get TSA PreCheck — this is understandable, considering the fee is $78 compared to $100 for Global Entry.

However, a Global Entry membership also provides access to TSA PreCheck. When you account for the application fee reimbursement offered by several credit cards, why wouldn’t you go ahead and get Global Entry? With the right card, the impact on your wallet is the same — neither should cost you a dime!

By getting Global Entry, you can enjoy a quicker security experience when boarding flights in the U.S. If you decide to travel abroad, you can take comfort in the fact that returning to the U.S. will be easy.

Hot Tip:  If you have additional questions, don’t miss our piece on the top Global Entry FAQs and TSA PreCheck FAQs . 

Final Thoughts

Airports are becoming busier by the year, so having access to TSA PreCheck and Global Entry is vital for quicker and smoother security screenings. With so many credit cards offering to reimburse you for the application fee, there is no excuse not to have a Known Traveler Number.

Whether you get TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, you’ll be all set for a better airport experience — just enter your PASSID/Known Traveler Number when booking your flight.

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The information regarding the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i know if i have a known traveler number.

If you have applied for and been approved for Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or TSA PreCheck, you have a Known Traveler Number. It is your membership number from one of these Trusted Traveler Programs.

Can you add a Known Traveler Number after booking your flight?

Yes. If you forget to add your Known Traveler Number at the time of booking, you can add it later. This can be done online or at the check-in desk at the airport. We recommend doing it online before checking in.

Why isn't my Known Traveler Number working?

If your Known Traveler Number isn’t working, the likely causes are:

• You, a travel agent, or reservations agent entered the number incorrectly
• Your name doesn’t match what is on your Trusted Traveler Program profile

Where do I find my Known Traveler Number on my Global Entry card?

Your Known Traveler Number can be found on the back of your Global Entry card. It is your PASSID number.

If you have NEXUS or SENTRI, your PASSID number will also be found on the back of your card.

How long is a Known Traveler Number good for?

Your membership with a Trusted Traveler Program lasts 5 years. At that point, you will need to renew your membership and pay another fee. Don’t forget to use a credit card that will reimburse you for the fee!

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About Spencer Howard

Always a fan of flying, it was only natural that Spencer was drawn to finding a way to improve the travel experience.

Like many, he started this journey searching for cheap flights to take him around the world. This was fun for a while, but Spencer was intrigued by the idea of flying in business and first class!

Throwing himself into what became an extensive research project, Spencer spent 3-4 hours per night learning everything he could about frequent flyer miles over the course of several months (he thinks this is normal). He runs Straight to the Points, an award-seat alert platform.

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You will find your Pass ID number on the back of your NEXUS card. It is a nine-digit number.

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What Is a Redress Number for Travel?

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Table of Contents

What is a redress number for flying?

Do i need a redress number, how do i apply for a redress number, how do i use a redress number, redress numbers for tsa recapped.

Whenever you travel by air within, to or from the U.S., you’re electronically screened using the Transportation Security Administration Secure Flight screening program. While this system is transparent for most passengers, it occasionally misidentifies passengers as high risk.

If you've frequently been stopped for additional security during travel or have been denied travel for security reasons, you may consider applying for a redress number to avoid this in the future.

The redress number meaning is a numeric identifier given to individuals who were falsely identified as posing threats to transportation security or public safety when flying. It aims to streamline TSA checkpoints for these travelers.

Here's how redress numbers for travel work and if applying for one is a smart move for you.

The short answer is a redress number is an identifier that allows TSA to match you with the results of your redress case. A redress number is used by the TSA’s Secure Flight program to simplify the watchlist matching process and can prevent future false matches of people who have been misidentified as matching a watchlist in the past.

A redress number is different from a Known Traveler Number , which identifies your membership in Trusted Traveler programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry .

Most travelers won't have a redress number. Only people who have applied for the Department of Homeland Security’s Traveler Redress Inquiry Program, or TRIP, will have one.

If you don't have a redress number and an airline or travel site requests a redress number as part of a booking process, you'll simply leave that field blank.

If you've been denied travel or delayed during travel for additional security screening, or if you've had trouble getting through checkpoints at U.S. borders, DHS TRIP may provide relief from security-related travel woes.

Specifically, TSA suggests that you apply for a redress number if you've had issues like being unable to print a boarding pass, being denied or delayed boarding of a plane, being denied or delayed entry into or exit from the U.S. at a border checkpoint, or are frequently referred for additional screening at an airport.

Here is the list of issues that DHS says TRIP can help resolve:

You were unable to print a boarding pass from an airline ticketing kiosk or from the Internet.

You were delayed or denied boarding an aircraft.

The airline ticket agent informed you that the federal government was not authorizing you to travel.

You are repeatedly referred for secondary screening when clearing a U.S. Customs and Border Protection checkpoint or were denied entry into the U.S.

You were told by CBP at a U.S. port of entry that your fingerprints need to be corrected.

You wish to amend a traveler record because of an overstay as a result of not submitting the required I-94 when exiting the U.S.

You believe you were incorrectly denied ESTA authorization.

If you frequently experience issues like these when traveling, you might want to apply for DHS TRIP.

Note that TRIP is meant to resolve security-related issues like watchlist mismatches. It isn't intended to resolve customer-service complaints, address issues related to discrimination, help you find lost or damaged items or provide assistance during security screening.

Further, having a redress number doesn't guarantee that you'll never be selected for additional screening, but it makes additional screening less likely if you've been previously falsely matched to a watchlist.

» Learn more: TSA PreCheck or Global Entry — which is right for you?

You can apply for a redress number through the Traveler Redress Inquiry Program portal if you believe that you're being incorrectly stopped or screened when flying.

During the application process, you'll be asked a series of screening questions to determine if obtaining a redress number may help solve your travel issues.

To apply, you'll be required to submit ID documents proving your identity. U.S. citizens should provide a copy of the biographical page of an unexpired U.S. passport or, for those without one, a copy of an unexpired government-issued photo identification.

Minors may provide a copy of a birth certificate. Get more advice on how to successfully navigate TSA PreCheck with a family .

Non-U.S. citizens must provide a copy of the biographical page of an unexpired passport and/or copies of one of several U.S. government-issued identification documents. Acceptable identification documents include:

Passport card.

Driver's license.

Birth certificate (for people younger than 18.)

Military identification card.

Government identification card.

Certificate of citizenship.

Naturalization certificate.

Immigrant/non-immigrant visa.

Alien registration.

Petition or claim receipt.

I-94 admission form.

SENTRI card .

NEXUS card .

Border crossing card.

SEVIS card.

After the DHS receives and processes your application, it will send you a resolution letter detailing the outcome of your application. If you feel that your redress request was resolved incorrectly, you should follow the instructions in your resolution letter.

» Learn more: Can Americans travel to Europe?

Making sure your redress number is attached to your air travel reservations will give you the greatest chance of avoiding security hassles when flying or crossing U.S. borders.

You can attach your redress number to a travel reservation during booking, you can add it to your frequent flyer profile or you can ask an airport agent to add your redress number to your reservation at check-in.

Enter your redress number during booking

Enter your redress number during the booking process when using most online travel agencies, airline websites or travel agents.

For example, when booking a flight on Expedia , you can enter your redress number after you provide your name, gender and date of birth. Look for the option to expand the “Frequent flyer, redress and more” section of this page.

Other online travel agencies and airline websites will typically have a similar option during their booking process.

Enter your redress number in your frequent flyer profile

If you belong to a frequent flyer program , you can add your redress number to your loyalty member profile. For many travelers, this is the most convenient way to ensure that your redress number is applied automatically to all their reservations. The process will vary by airline, but this can typically be done online, similarly to how you would add a known traveler number.

If you are a Delta Air Lines SkyMiles member, for example, you can add your redress number to the Secure Flight Info section of your profile. On Delta.com, your Secure Flight Information can be found under the Passenger Details section of your profile.

Similarly, Southwest Airlines members can enter their redress number under the “Travel related info” panel in the personal information section of their profile.

Exactly how to enter your information varies by airline, but the field to enter your redress number can typically be found in the same place where you enter your known traveler information.

» Learn more: The best frequent flyer program and credit card combo

Give your redress number to an airport agent

There may be times when you are unable to add your redress number to your reservation until check-in.

For example, if you book travel as part of a group tour package and your tour provider doesn’t provide your airline confirmation number, or if you booked through an online travel agency and forgot to add your redress number to your reservation, you may show up at the airport without your redress number attached to your reservation.

Most airport ticketing agents should be able to add your redress number to your reservation upon check-in.

While a redress number isn't required for travel and not everyone will need one, if you’ve experienced security-related issues while flying, applying for a redress number may be right for you. By adding it to your travel bookings or frequent flyer accounts, you can help TSA identify you to save time and stress.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

$300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.