3 Week Enrollment Open For TSA Pre-Check Program

OAKLAND, CA — Are you traveling this holiday season? If you're flying out of Oakland International Airport - here's a time-saver.

The airport has opened a temporary enrollment center for the Transportation Security Administration's Pre-Check program, which lets pre-screened, low-risk passengers go quickly through security, airport officials said.

The expedited screening program is located at Terminal 2. It opened Monday and will be open for three weeks.

"We are always looking for ways to improve the travel experience for our customers," airport director of aviation Bryant Francis said in a statement. "This is an opportune time for Bay Area residents and other
travelers to join the TSA Pre-Check program here locally, and we're pleased to partner with TSA to offer this convenient amenity now."

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The program allows travelers to go through security in a more efficient way, eliminating the need to remove shoes and allowing laptops to stay in their cases. Also, light outerwear and belts can remain on, according
to airport officials.

To apply, pre-enroll online. At step four, type in "Oakland, CA" as your location and then choose Oakland International Airport. After clicking "next" at the bottom of the screen, select an appointment time to complete the application at the airport.

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You must bring proof of identification and U.S. citizenship, such as a U.S. passport or birth certificate with a
valid driver's license. You will have your fingerprints taken and background check performed and an $85 application fee good for five years of membership will be collected. The fee can only be paid with credit card, money order or a certified cashier's check, according to airport officials.

"We'd like to see participation not just from those who happen to be traveling during the event dates, but from any of our customers in Oakland and throughout the Bay Area who would love to benefit from the convenience of expedited screening," Francis said.

Travelers considering applying for the program should take note that not all airlines participate in the Pre-Check program. Here is the list of participating airlines.

— Bay City News contributed to this report; Photo courtesy Grant Wickes via Flickr