Navigating airport security can be a stressful part of travel. Fortunately, programs like Global Entry offer solutions for pre-approved, low-risk travelers to expedite their passage through customs and security lines. A key component of these programs is the Known Traveler Number (KTN). Understanding how to find your KTN and utilize it is crucial for a smoother travel experience.
Your Known Traveler Number is essentially your identification number within the Trusted Traveler Programs, managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). These programs, including Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, NEXUS, and SENTRI, allow you to enjoy expedited security screening at airports and border crossings. Upon successful enrollment in a program like Global Entry, you are assigned a KTN. This number verifies your trusted traveler status.
Locating your KTN is straightforward. The most common place to find it is on the membership card issued upon approval into a Trusted Traveler Program. For Global Entry members, your KTN, also sometimes referred to as a PASSID, is printed on the back of your Global Entry card.
Alternatively, you can find your KTN by logging into your Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account online. By accessing your TTP account dashboard on the CBP website, you can view your membership details, including your Known Traveler Number. This is particularly useful if you need to look up your KTN and don’t have your physical card readily available.
Once you have located your Known Traveler Number, ensure you use it correctly when booking flights. During the reservation process with airlines, there will be a designated field to enter your KTN. Adding your KTN to your flight booking is essential to have your TSA PreCheck benefits automatically applied to your boarding pass. This will be indicated by a TSA PreCheck indicator on your boarding pass, granting you access to the faster TSA PreCheck security lanes at participating airports.
Utilizing your Known Traveler Number is the key to unlocking the benefits of Trusted Traveler Programs. Whether you are enrolled in Global Entry for expedited customs when entering the U.S., or TSA PreCheck for quicker domestic security lines, knowing how to perform a Known Traveler Number Lookup and use it correctly will save you valuable time and reduce stress during your travels. Make sure to keep your KTN accessible and use it for every flight booking to take full advantage of your trusted traveler status.
