How to Add TSA PreCheck to Southwest Airlines?

How to Add TSA PreCheck to Southwest Airlines? Image
Published Apr 25, 2025 5:42 AM EST

If you're eligible for TSA PreCheck, "TSA PRE" will show on your boarding pass for a quicker airport experience.

We get it—airport lines and security checks can be a total headache. But with Southwest TSA PreCheck, your travel experience just got a whole lot easier! If you already have TSA PreCheck but aren't sure how to add it to your Southwest flight, don't stress. This friendly, step-by-step guide will help you breeze through security without any confusion.

What is TSA PreCheck on Southwest Airlines?

Southwest Airlines TSA PreCheck® is an expedited screening program by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that allows eligible travelers to experience faster, more efficient security checks at participating U.S. airports.

Approved passengers can keep shoes, belts, light jackets, and compliant liquids in their own bags during screening.

Learn More: Southwest vs United: Which is Better?

What are the benefits of Southwest TSA PreCheck?

The TSA PreCheck program offers several benefits that can enhance your travel experience by making the airport security process faster and more convenient. Here's what you get under Southwest TSA rules:

  • Expedited Security Screening

Zip through dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes at participating airports. These lines move faster, cutting wait times and smoothing your trip to the gate.

  • Keep Items On

No need to shed your shoes, belt, or light jacket—or dig out your laptop and liquids. It's a hassle-free pass-through security.

  • Widespread Availability

Available at over 200 airports and with 90+ airlines, including Southwest, TSA PreCheck is there where you need it.

  • Family Benefits

Kids 12 and under tag along in the PreCheck lane for free. Teens 13-17 can join if they're on your reservation and their boarding pass shows the TSA PreCheck mark.

  • Consistency for Frequent Flyers

Add your Known Traveler Number (KTN) to your Southwest Rapid Rewards profile or booking, and it auto-applies to future flights—no extra steps needed.

FlyO Tip: Add your KTN to your Rapid Rewards profile once, so you don't have to enter it every time you book a flight.

How to get Southwest TSA PreCheck?

To get Southwest TSA PreCheck, apply at tsa.gov, complete a background check, and receive your KTN. Then, add it to your Southwest profile or each booking for faster airport screening. Here's how to know for the Southwest Airlines TSA requirements:

  1. Apply for TSA PreCheck: Begin by completing the online application on the official TSA PreCheck website. After submitting your application, schedule an in-person background check and fingerprinting appointment.
  2. Receive Your Known Traveler Number (KTN): Once approved, you'll be assigned a KTN, essential for accessing TSA PreCheck benefits.
  3. Update Your Southwest Airlines Profile:
  • Log in to your Southwest Rapid Rewards account.
  • Navigate to your personal information or traveler profile section.
  • Enter your Southwest KTN in the appropriate field and save the changes.
  1. Include Your KTN When Booking Flights: Ensure that your KTN is added to all future flight reservations. This can be done by entering it during the booking process or selecting your stored traveler information if logged into your Rapid Rewards account.

If you have any queries regarding the Southwest Airlines TSA guidelines, contact our reservations team at +1-571-378-7016 for expert assistance & guidance.

Important Note: The Southwest TSA regulations incorporates random and unpredictable security measures; therefore, having TSA PreCheck does not guarantee expedited screening every time.

Read More: Does Southwest have TVs: Everything You Need to Know!

What are the TSA requirements for flying on Southwest?

When flying with Southwest Airlines, you must follow Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requirements to pass through airport security checkpoints. These apply to all U.S. airlines, including Southwest, and are enforced at every airport they serve. Here's what you need to know:

  1. Identification
  • Adults (18+): Bring a valid government-issued photo ID, like a driver's license or passport. Check the official tsa website for accepted options.
  • Minors (under 18): No ID is needed for domestic flights. Unaccompanied Minors (5-11) require proof of age, like a birth certificate. For international trips, everyone needs a passport.
  • Lost ID? TSA can verify you with questions—arrive early.
  1. Check-In and Boarding
  • Check-in online (up to 24 hours before) or at the airport to get your boarding pass for TSA to scan.
  • Arrive early at the gate or 10 minutes before departure, or Southwest won't let you board.
  1. Baggage Rules
  • Carry-On: One bag (max 10 x 16 x 24 inches) plus a personal item (like a purse). Liquids follow TSA's 3-1-1 rule: 3.4 oz max per container in one clear quart-sized bag.
  • Checked Bags: Two free bags (max 50 lbs, 62 inches total). TSA bans explosives, flammables, and sharp items—see tsa.gov for details.
  • Screening: Bags get X-rayed. Be ready to unpack electronics or liquids if asked.
  1. Security Screening
  • Take off shoes, belts, and jackets, and put them in bins for X-ray. Walk through a metal detector or scanner. TSA might pat you down if needed.
  • TSA PreCheck: If you have it, keep shoes and jackets on, and leave laptops/liquids in your bag. Add your KTN to your Southwest booking.
  1. International Travel
  • Show your passport at the Southwest counter 60 minutes before departure. Some places (like Aruba) need online forms—check southwest.com.
  1. Prohibited Items
  • No weapons, explosives, or hazardous stuff (like guns or bleach) in any bag.

Important Note: TSA does random checks, so even PreCheck might not always skip standard screening. Southwest follows these federal rules.

Learn More: How Can I Book Southwest Multi-City Flights?

How do I add TSA PreCheck to Southwest Airlines?

To add TSA PreCheck to your Southwest flights, first log into southwest.com, go to "My Account," select "Secure Traveler Information," input your Known Traveler Number (KTN), and save—your future flights are set for TSA Precheck.

How to add TSA PreCheck to your Southwest boarding pass?

To get Southwest boarding pass TSA PreCheck on your next flight, first log into the official Southwest website, go to "My Account," select "Secure Traveler Information," add your Known Traveler Number (KTN), and save. For existing bookings, visit "Manage Reservations," input your KTN, and re-check in to see "TSA PRE" on your boarding pass.

Read More: Things to Know Before Flying Southwest Airlines!

How to add a known traveler number to Southwest?

Got your TSA PreCheck Known Traveler Number (KTN)? Here's how to add it to Southwest Airlines for faster security:

  1. Add KTN to Your Rapid Rewards Profile (Best for Future Trips)
  • Log in to southwest.com.
  • Click "My Account," then find "Secure Traveler Information" under "My Preferences."
  • Enter your KTN, full name, and birth date, then save.
  • ➡️ Your KTN will auto-apply to all future bookings when logged in.
  1. Add KTN When Booking a Flight
  • On southwest.com, go to the passenger details section when booking.
  • Input your KTN under "Known Traveler Number."
  • ➡️ This links it to that specific flight, perfect for one-off trips.
  1. Add KTN to an Existing Trip
  • Visit "Manage Reservations" on southwest.com or the Southwest app.
  • Enter your confirmation number and name.
  • Select "Add Secure Traveler Information" and input your KTN.
  • ➡️ Re-check in to update your boarding pass, or do it at an airport kiosk.

FlyO Tip: Once you add your KTN to your Southwest account, it will automatically update all your existing flight reservations.

Can you add TSA PreCheck after booking on Southwest?

You can add your TSA PreCheck Known Traveler Number (KTN) to an existing Southwest Airlines reservation. To do so, visit the Manage Reservations page on Southwest's website, enter your confirmation number and passenger details, and select "Add Secure Traveler Information" to input your KTN. Alternatively, you can add your KTN via the Southwest mobile app or at an airport kiosk.

For more help with personalized flight bookings, contact us at +1-571-378-7016 to snag our best Southwest airline deals.

Learn More: Is Southwest a Good Airline for Your Next Trip?

Final Thoughts

Getting through airport security is so much easier with Southwest TSA PreCheck. You'll save time, skip the long lines, and won't have to take off your shoes or take out your laptop. Remember to add your Known Traveler Number (KTN) to your Southwest booking.

Need help with flights or adding PreCheck? Call FlyOfinder at +1-571-378-7016. We're here to make flying with Southwest Airlines easy and stress-free.

FAQ’s

How do I add TSA PreCheck to Southwest after checking in?

If you've already checked in, you can still add your Known Traveler Number (KTN) by visiting a Southwest airport kiosk, speaking with a gate agent, or calling our customer service team at +1-571-378-7016 before your flight departs.

Can I add TSA PreCheck to an existing Southwest reservation?

Yes, you can. Simply go to the Manage Reservations page on Southwest's website, enter your confirmation details, and add your KTN under "Add Secure Traveler Information."

Does a Southwest credit card offer TSA PreCheck benefits?

The Southwest credit card TSA PreCheck Performance Business Card provides a complete statement credit of up to $100 every four years to cover the TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fee.

Does the Chase Southwest card pay for TSA PreCheck?

The Chase Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card reimburses the TSA PreCheck application fee via a statement credit when you use the card to pay for the application.

How do I know if I have TSA PreCheck on Southwest?

After checking in, look for your boarding pass's "TSA PRE" indicator. If not, ensure your KTN is correctly added to your reservation.

Where does TSA PreCheck show on a Southwest boarding pass?

The "TSA PRE" indicator appears near the top of your Southwest boarding pass, signaling your eligibility for expedited security screening. For more information, call us at +1-571-378-7016 to grab our exclusive flight deals.

About the author

Elena Porter, a passionate travel author at FlyOfinder since 2019, shares her wealth of experience to inspire and guide travelers worldwide. Known for her insightful advice, Elena offers practical tips on planning memorable trips. Her work helps readers choose the best destinations, find great airline deals, and enjoy experiences that make each journey unique.

Customer Comment

Your email address will not be published.

Switch Destinations