Booking cheap flights tickets and packing bags are just stepping stones. A real milestone is going through the airport security screening – which can be overwhelming for some travelers. TSA Cares assistance is what makes TSA screening less stressful for senior citizens, non-English speakers, first-time travelers, the disabled, families with special kids, and passengers with medical conditions or special needs. Unlike TSA PreCheck, TSA Cares is a free program that focuses on support rather than speed.
What is TSA Cares Assistance Program?
TSA Cares is a special support program for those travelers who need extra assistance at US airports. The Transportation Security Administration had launched it in 2012 to make airport security screening more accessible and less stressful. The TSA Cares program provides assistance to passengers who may feel overwhelmed or face challenges at security checkpoints due to language barriers, age, medical conditions, disabilities, special needs, or first-time travel anxiety.
Who are eligible for TSA Cares Assistance at US airports?
TSA Cares is available to any traveler who needs help during airport security screening. There is no formal eligibility approval, membership, or documentation required to use this service. TSA Cares is usually provided to:
- Travelers with visible or invisible disabilities
- Passengers with medical conditions or implanted medical devices
- Travelers with autism, sensory sensitivities, or anxiety related to flying
- Non-English-speaking travelers or those with communication/speech difficulty
- Senior citizens who need extra assistance during security screening
- Families traveling with children who have special needs
- Passengers carrying religious, cultural, or sacred items that require special handling
TSA Cares vs TSA PreCheck
Membership and Fee:
- TSA Cares is a completely free assistance service. There is no membership.
- TSA PreCheck is a paid trusted traveler program. It costs $75 to $85 for a 5-year membership.
Purpose
- TSA PreCheck focuses on faster security screening through dedicated lanes and fewer screening requirements.
- TSA Cares focuses on support and guidance, helping travelers navigate the security process.
Enrolment and Approval
- TSA PreCheck requires enrolment, background checks, and approval. Approved travelers receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that must be added to boarding passes.
- TSA Cares does not require enrolment, approval, or documentation. Assistance is requested for a specific reason or purpose.
Airline Dependency
- You get TSA PreCheck benefits only if your airline participates in the trusted traveler program. Even though you’re a TSA PreCheck member, you can’t use it if the airline does not participate in the program.
- TSA Cares does not depend on any airline.
How to get TSA Cares assistance?
Applying for TSA Cares is easy, but doing it correctly helps ensure you get the support you need at your departure airport. Follow these steps:
- Plan early (at least 72 hours before your flight)
TSA strongly recommends calling the TSA Cares helpline (1-855-787-2227) at least 72 hours before your departure so they have time to coordinate with your airport’s security team.
- Two ways to request TSA Cares support
You can request assistance either online or over the phone. If your flight is more than 72 hours away, use the TSA Cares request form online. If you are scheduled to fly within 72 hours, call the TSA Cares helpline at 1-855-787-2227 and speak to a representative.
- Complete the online request form
When using the TSA Cares online form, you will need to enter:
- Your first name, last name, valid email ID, and phone number
- Your departure flight details, including airline name and flight number.
- Your departure airport (choose the US airport you will be leaving from).
- The date and time of your flight.
- A description of why you need assistance – medical conditions, disabilities, language support, or special items you are carrying.
After submitting your request or calling TSA Cares, you may receive a confirmation call or email from TSA. This may include questions to clarify your needs.
- Ask for a Passenger Support Specialist at the TSA Checkpoint (If Needed)
If you have not been contacted before travel, you can ask a TSA security officer or supervisor at the airport for a Passenger Support Specialist (PSS) to assist you during screening.
FAQs: TSA Cares Assistance
Is TSA Cares available for domestic or international passengers?
The United States’ TSA Cares program is available for passengers in need, irrespective of flights, domestic or international. Passengers who are scheduled to travel within USA or take international flights to India or some other country must have genuine reasons to apply for TSA Cares.
Do I need medical documents to use TSA Cares?
No. TSA Cares does not require medical documentation. Travelers only need to explain their situation and what they need assistance with during security screening.
