TSA PreCheck for Veterans in Vermont: Complete 2026 Enrollment Guide
Veterans in Vermont can enroll in TSA PreCheck at Castleton (273 Route 30 N) or Essex Junction (1 Market Pl, Unit 19, Building 3). Standard enrollment costs $76.75 for five years. Under the VETS Safe Travel Act, veterans with permanent blindness, limb loss, or paralysis requiring a VA-issued wheelchair or prosthetic qualify for free enrollment. Apply through IDEMIA or CLEAR.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit | Expedited airport security screening; no removing shoes, belts, laptops, or liquids |
| Eligibility (Free) | Veterans enrolled in VA healthcare with permanent blindness, limb loss, paralysis, or requiring VA-issued wheelchair/prosthetic |
| Eligibility (Standard) | All veterans eligible to apply; honorable discharge not required for TSA PreCheck |
| Application | Online pre-enrollment + in-person appointment at an enrollment center |
| Vermont Enrollment Centers | Castleton (273 Route 30 N); Essex Junction (1 Market Pl, Unit 19, Building 3) |
| Standard Cost | $76.75 for 5 years (new); $58.75 online renewal (IDEMIA) |
| Free Enrollment | VETS Safe Travel Act for qualifying severely disabled veterans |
| Required Documents | VA fee waiver letter (for free enrollment), government-issued photo ID, proof of citizenship |
| Processing Time | 3–5 days (90% approved); may take up to 60 days |
| Membership Duration | 5 years |
| Official Agency | Transportation Security Administration (TSA); Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) |
| Updated For | 2026 |
What Is TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveler Program administered by the Transportation Security Administration that allows approved low-risk travelers to use dedicated expedited security lanes at more than 200 U.S. airports. Members do not need to remove shoes, belts, light jackets, laptops, or 3-1-1 compliant liquids from carry-on bags. The program costs $76.75 for a five-year membership through the standard civilian process.
Who qualifies: U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and lawful permanent residents. Veterans, active duty, National Guard, and Reservists may all apply. Active-duty service members receive TSA PreCheck automatically through their DoD ID number.
Why it matters: TSA PreCheck reduces airport security wait times, typically allowing members to pass through screening in about 1–2 minutes at Vermont’s Burlington International Airport (BTV) compared to standard lines.
What veterans should do next: Determine if you qualify for free enrollment under the VETS Safe Travel Act. If yes, download your VA fee waiver letter and schedule an appointment at a Vermont enrollment center. If not, apply through the standard process.
VETS Safe Travel Act: Free TSA PreCheck for Disabled Veterans
The Veterans Expedited TSA Screening (VETS) Safe Travel Act, signed into law on January 4, 2025, provides free TSA PreCheck enrollment and renewal to veterans with qualifying severe service-connected disabilities. The VA began issuing eligibility letters in June 2026.
Who Qualifies for Free Enrollment
To receive free TSA PreCheck under the VETS Safe Travel Act, all three of the following conditions must be met simultaneously:
Enrolled in VA healthcare
Service-connected disability resulting in permanent blindness, the loss of a limb, the loss of the use of a limb, full paralysis, or partial paralysis
Requires the use of a VA-issued wheelchair or prosthetic limb because of that service-connected disability
Who Does Not Qualify for Free Enrollment
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityVeterans with other service-connected disabilities — including PTSD, hearing loss, traumatic brain injury, or chronic pain — do not qualify for the fee waiver under this law. They can still enroll in TSA PreCheck through the standard process and pay the enrollment fee.
| Disability Category | Qualifies for Free Enrollment? |
|---|---|
| Permanent blindness | Yes |
| Loss of a limb | Yes |
| Loss of use of a limb | Yes |
| Full or partial paralysis | Yes |
| PTSD | No |
| Hearing loss | No |
| Traumatic brain injury | No |
| Chronic pain | No |
How to Get Your Fee Waiver Letter
The VA identifies eligible veterans and uploads the eligibility letter to your VA.gov account. Follow these steps to download it:
Sign in to your VA.gov account
Go to the Benefit letters and documents section
Select TSA PreCheck Application Fee Waiver Letter
Select Download TSA PreCheck Application Fee Waiver (PDF)
If you believe you qualify but need help getting your application fee waiver letter, contact the VA online through Ask VA. Select “Disability compensation” for the category, then select “How to file a claim” for the topic.
TSA PreCheck Enrollment Centers in Vermont
Vermont has two TSA PreCheck enrollment centers, both operated by IDEMIA. These are the only in-state locations for completing the required in-person appointment.
Vermont Enrollment Center Locations
| Provider | Address | City | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| IDEMIA | 273 Route 30 N | Castleton, VT 05735 | Full-service enrollment center |
| IDEMIA | 1 Market Pl, Unit 19, Building 3 | Essex Junction, VT 05452 | Full-service enrollment center |
Nearby Out-of-State Options
Vermont residents in northern or southern areas may find closer enrollment centers in neighboring states:
| Provider | Address | City | State |
|---|---|---|---|
| IDEMIA | 3368 S Broadway, Main Floor | Saratoga Springs | NY |
| IDEMIA | 93 Mill St, Ste B | Springfield | MA |
| CLEAR | 3035 Route 50 (Wilton Square) | Saratoga Springs | NY |
| CLEAR | 35 Talcottville Road | Vernon | CT |
Enrollment at Burlington International Airport (BTV)
Burlington International Airport (BTV) has TSA PreCheck lanes available for enrolled travelers. However, BTV is not currently a TSA PreCheck enrollment center — you must complete your in-person appointment at Castleton or Essex Junction.
NEXUS Enrollment Events
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) have hosted enrollment events in Burlington for Vermonters interested in enrolling in NEXUS and TSA PreCheck programs. The regular process for enrolling in these programs previously required applicants to travel to Derby or out of state for required in-person interviews. Check the CBP website for upcoming enrollment event dates.
How to Apply for TSA PreCheck as a Veteran
The TSA PreCheck application process involves two steps: online pre-enrollment and an in-person appointment at an enrollment center. Veterans qualifying for free enrollment must follow additional steps to redeem their fee waiver.
Step-by-Step Process for Standard Enrollment
Step 1: Choose Your Enrollment Provider
TSA PreCheck enrollments are handled by three authorized providers: IDEMIA, CLEAR, and Telos. Visit tsa.gov/precheck to select the provider that best meets your needs and has an enrollment location near you.
Step 2: Pre-Enroll Online
Complete the online application with your basic biographic information. The online form takes about 5 minutes to complete.
Step 3: Schedule Your Appointment
After pre-enrolling, schedule an in-person appointment at your chosen enrollment center. In Vermont, this will be at Castleton or Essex Junction through IDEMIA.
Step 4: Visit the Enrollment Center
Bring your required documents to the appointment:
U.S. passport or other accepted forms of ID
Proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency
Fingerprints will be collected during the appointment
Step 5: Pay the Enrollment Fee
Standard new enrollment costs $76.75 for five years. Renewal costs $58.75 online or $66.75 in person through IDEMIA.
Step 6: Receive Your Known Traveler Number (KTN)
Once approved, you will receive a Known Traveler Number. Enter this number in the KTN field when booking flights.
Step-by-Step Process for Free Enrollment (VETS Safe Travel Act)
Step 1: Download Your VA Fee Waiver Letter
Sign in to VA.gov and download your TSA PreCheck Application Fee Waiver Letter from the Benefit letters and documents section.
Step 2: Choose Your Provider
Determine which provider (CLEAR or IDEMIA) is best for your enrollment or renewal.
Step 3: Enroll or Renew In-Person (CLEAR)
Bring your VA fee waiver letter and required documentation to the enrollment location.
Step 4: Enroll or Renew In-Person (IDEMIA)
Before going to the enrollment location, email your VA fee waiver letter to IDEMIA customer support at tsaenrollmentbyidemia@ps-idemia.com. Be sure to include “VETS Safe” in the email subject line. You will receive an offer code to bring to your appointment.
Step 5: Renew Online (CLEAR)
Complete the online renewal process and pay the renewal fee. Email your VA fee waiver letter to CLEAR customer support at CLEARCUstomerSupport@tsa.dhs.gov to receive a full rebate.
Step 6: Renew Online (IDEMIA)
Before renewing online, email your Known Traveler Number and VA fee waiver letter to IDEMIA customer support with “VETS Safe” in the subject line. You will receive an offer code to use during checkout.
TSA PreCheck Costs and Fees (2026)
TSA PreCheck costs vary by provider and whether you are enrolling for the first time or renewing. Veterans qualifying under the VETS Safe Travel Act pay nothing.
| Enrollment Type | Provider | Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Enrollment | IDEMIA | $76.75 | 5 years |
| Renewal (Online) | IDEMIA | $58.75 | 5 years |
| Renewal (In-Person) | IDEMIA | $66.75 | 5 years |
| New Enrollment | CLEAR | Varies | 5 years |
| New Enrollment | Telos | $85 | 5 years |
| Renewal | Telos | $69.95 online | 5 years |
| Free Enrollment | VETS Safe Travel Act | $0 | 5 years |
Fee breakdown: The TSA PreCheck fee includes a TSA fee ($42.75), an FBI fee ($11.25), and an enrollment provider fee.
Required Documents for TSA PreCheck
All TSA PreCheck applicants must bring specific documentation to their in-person appointment. Veterans seeking free enrollment under the VETS Safe Travel Act must also bring their VA fee waiver letter.
Standard Required Documents
U.S. passport (book or card) — serves as both proof of identity and citizenship
OR a government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, state ID) plus a birth certificate or naturalization certificate
Permanent Resident Card (if applicable)
Additional Documents for Free Enrollment
TSA PreCheck Application Fee Waiver Letter (downloaded from VA.gov)
For IDEMIA: an offer code received via email before your appointment
What to Expect at the Appointment
The in-person appointment takes approximately 10 minutes. Your fingerprints and photo will be collected. TSA has procedures to accommodate individuals who are partial or full amputees or otherwise unable to provide ten-finger fingerprints during the enrollment process. TSA’s fingerprint collection methods comply with FBI requirements.
Vermont REAL ID and Enhanced Driver’s License
Vermont issues Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL) that are REAL ID compliant and serve as acceptable alternatives to a passport for domestic air travel. Vermont is one of five states (along with Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Washington) whose EDLs are exempt from requiring separate REAL ID compliance. Veterans can also request a “VETERAN” designation on their license or ID by completing Vermont DMV Form VG-168.
Military Spouses and Dependents
Military spouses and dependents have specific TSA PreCheck options. They do not receive free TSA PreCheck automatically but may qualify for discounts.
Military Spouses
Military spouses qualify for a $25 discount on TSA PreCheck enrollment and renewal. They must apply through the standard process and pay the reduced fee.
Gold Star Families
Gold Star family members — including spouses, parents, children, and siblings of fallen service members — receive free TSA PreCheck enrollment. The fee is waived by enrollment providers CLEAR, IDEMIA, and Telos.
How to apply: Visit TSA PreCheck enrollment and bring documentation verifying Gold Star status (such as DD Form 1300 or Survivor Benefits eligibility).
Dependents Under 12
Children 12 and under can use the TSA PreCheck lane with an enrolled parent without their own membership. Dependents ages 18 and older who are not DoD-affiliated must pay full price for TSA PreCheck.
| Category | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Active Duty Service Members | Free, automatic through DoD ID |
| Gold Star Families | Free enrollment |
| Military Spouses | $25 discount |
| Severely Disabled Veterans (VETS Safe) | Free enrollment |
| All Other Veterans | Standard fee ($76.75) |
| Children Under 12 | Free with enrolled adult |
| Adult Dependents (18+) | Standard fee |
Active Duty and Reserve TSA PreCheck
Active duty service members receive TSA PreCheck automatically as a benefit of their status. No enrollment, no fee, no application process is required.
How It Works
Enter your 10-digit Department of Defense identification number in the Known Traveler Number field when booking flights.
When the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on your boarding pass (TSAPRECHK, TSA PRE, or TSA PreCheck), you can use the expedited lane.
The CAC card itself is not sufficient at the checkpoint — the KTN must be in the reservation.
National Guard and Reservists
All uniformed members of the U.S. Armed Forces — including the National Guard and reserve components — receive TSA PreCheck automatically as a benefit of their status. The same DoD ID number mechanism applies.
Transitioning Out of Service
When you retire or separate from the military, your DoD ID number can no longer be used as your Known Traveler Number. Veterans and retirees must enroll in TSA PreCheck through the standard process to receive a new KTN and continue using expedited screening lanes.
TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry vs. CLEAR
Vermont travelers have three main options for expedited airport security. Each has different features, costs, and benefits.
| Feature | TSA PreCheck | Global Entry | CLEAR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | $76.75 (5 years) | $120 (5 years) | $199/year |
| What It Covers | Expedited domestic screening | Expedited customs + TSA PreCheck | Identity verification + expedited screening |
| International Travel | No customs benefits | Yes — expedited customs | No customs benefits |
| TSA PreCheck Included | Yes | Yes | No (must enroll separately) |
| Free for Disabled Veterans | Yes (VETS Safe) | No | No |
| Vermont Enrollment Centers | Castleton, Essex Junction | Derby (NEXUS) | None |
| Children Under 12 | Free with adult | Free with adult | Free with adult |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming all veterans qualify for free TSA PreCheck. Free enrollment is limited to veterans with specific severe service-connected disabilities under the VETS Safe Travel Act. PTSD, hearing loss, and traumatic brain injury do not qualify.
Forgetting to download the VA fee waiver letter before scheduling. You need this letter before you can receive an offer code from IDEMIA or CLEAR.
Not including “VETS Safe” in the email subject line. When emailing IDEMIA for an offer code, the subject line must include “VETS Safe” to ensure proper processing.
Bringing only your CAC card to the checkpoint. Active duty members must have their DoD ID number in the reservation’s KTN field. The CAC card alone is not sufficient.
Waiting until after separation to enroll. Enroll before retiring or separating from the military to avoid a gap in TSA PreCheck coverage.
Assuming your spouse gets free TSA PreCheck. Military spouses receive a $25 discount, not free enrollment.
Not checking for NEXUS enrollment events in Burlington. CBP has hosted enrollment events that bring in-person interviews to Vermont, saving travel time.
Overlooking nearby out-of-state enrollment centers. Vermont residents in border areas may find closer centers in New York, Massachusetts, or Connecticut.
Forgetting to renew. TSA PreCheck membership is valid for five years. Veterans can renew at no cost through CLEAR or IDEMIA as long as they remain eligible under the VETS Safe Travel Act.
Not updating your KTN after separation. Upon separation or retirement, your DoD ID can no longer be used as your KTN. You must enroll through the standard process.
Common Questions
1. Do all veterans qualify for free TSA PreCheck?
No. Free TSA PreCheck under the VETS Safe Travel Act is limited to veterans enrolled in VA healthcare who have permanent blindness, loss of a limb, loss of use of a limb, full paralysis, or partial paralysis, AND who require a VA-issued wheelchair or prosthetic limb. All three conditions must be met simultaneously.
2. Where are the TSA PreCheck enrollment centers in Vermont?
Vermont has two enrollment centers, both operated by IDEMIA: Castleton (273 Route 30 N) and Essex Junction (1 Market Pl, Unit 19, Building 3). There are no enrollment centers at Burlington International Airport.
3. How much does TSA PreCheck cost for veterans in Vermont?
Standard enrollment costs $76.75 for five years through IDEMIA. Online renewal costs $58.75. Veterans qualifying under the VETS Safe Travel Act pay nothing.
4. How do I get my VA TSA PreCheck fee waiver letter?
Sign in to VA.gov, go to the Benefit letters and documents section, select TSA PreCheck Application Fee Waiver Letter, and download the PDF. The VA identifies eligible veterans and uploads the letter to their VA.gov account.
5. What is the VETS Safe Travel Act?
The Veterans Expedited TSA Screening (VETS) Safe Travel Act is a federal law signed on January 4, 2025, that provides free TSA PreCheck enrollment and renewal to veterans with qualifying severe service-connected disabilities.
6. Do military spouses get free TSA PreCheck?
No. Military spouses qualify for a $25 discount on TSA PreCheck enrollment and renewal. They do not receive free TSA PreCheck. Gold Star family members, however, do receive free enrollment.
7. Do active duty service members need to apply for TSA PreCheck?
No. Active duty, National Guard, and Reserve members receive TSA PreCheck automatically. They enter their DoD ID number in the Known Traveler Number field when booking flights. The CAC card alone is not sufficient at the checkpoint.
8. What happens to my TSA PreCheck when I leave the military?
When you retire or separate, your DoD ID number can no longer be used as your Known Traveler Number. You must enroll in TSA PreCheck through the standard process to receive a new KTN and continue using expedited screening lanes.
9. Do children need their own TSA PreCheck membership?
Children 12 and under can use the TSA PreCheck lane with an enrolled parent without their own membership. Dependents ages 18 and older who are not DoD-affiliated must pay full price for their own TSA PreCheck.
10. How long does TSA PreCheck approval take?
Processing time is typically 3–5 days for 90% of applicants. In some cases, approval may take up to 60 days. You will receive your Known Traveler Number once approved.
11. Can I renew TSA PreCheck for free if I qualify under VETS Safe?
Yes. Veterans can renew their membership at no cost through CLEAR or IDEMIA as long as they remain eligible under the VETS Safe Travel Act. For CLEAR online renewal, email your fee waiver letter for a full rebate. For IDEMIA, email your KTN and fee waiver letter to receive an offer code.
12. Is there a TSA PreCheck enrollment center at Burlington airport?
No. Burlington International Airport (BTV) has TSA PreCheck lanes for enrolled travelers, but it is not an enrollment center. Vermont’s two enrollment centers are in Castleton and Essex Junction.
Key Takeaways
Two Vermont enrollment centers: IDEMIA in Castleton (273 Route 30 N) and Essex Junction (1 Market Pl, Unit 19, Building 3).
Standard cost: $76.75 for five years (IDEMIA). Renewal is $58.75 online or $66.75 in person.
Free for qualifying disabled veterans: VETS Safe Travel Act covers veterans with permanent blindness, limb loss, or paralysis requiring a VA-issued wheelchair or prosthetic.
PTSD, hearing loss, and TBI do not qualify for free enrollment under VETS Safe.
Download your VA fee waiver letter from VA.gov before scheduling your appointment.
Email IDEMIA with “VETS Safe” in the subject line to receive an offer code for free enrollment.
Military spouses receive a $25 discount. Gold Star families receive free enrollment.
Active duty gets it automatically through their DoD ID number in the KTN field.
Children 12 and under use the PreCheck lane free with an enrolled adult.
Enroll before separating from the military to avoid a gap in coverage.
Official Resources
| Resource | Website |
|---|---|
| TSA PreCheck Official Page | tsa.gov/precheck |
| TSA PreCheck for Disabled Veterans (VETS Safe) | tsa.gov/precheck/military/vets-safe |
| VA TSA PreCheck Fee Waiver Information | va.gov/resources/how-you-can-get-tsa-precheck-for-free-as-a-veteran-with-a-disability |
| VA Benefit Letters and Documents | va.gov/records/download-va-letters/letters/ |
| TSA PreCheck Enrollment Centers | tsa.gov/precheck/enrollment-centers |
| IDEMIA TSA PreCheck Enrollment | tsaenrollmentbyidemia.tsa.dhs.gov |
| CLEAR TSA PreCheck Enrollment | tsaprecheckbyclear.tsa.dhs.gov |
| TSA PreCheck Required Identification | tsa.gov/precheck/required-identification |
| Military OneSource TSA PreCheck | militaryonesource.mil |
| Vermont DMV REAL ID Information | dmv.vermont.gov |
| USA.gov | usa.gov |
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