TSA PreCheck certification opportunity extended

Glacier Park International Airport has become a temporary hub for people to obtain their Transportation Security Administration PreCheck certification.

Due to popular demand, the opportunity to get certified has been extended for an additional week and will be available March 5-9.

Typically people have to travel to a larger airport to get the certification interview.

The certification allows travelers checking into flights to go through a different security line that moves more quickly and doesn’t require as much scrutiny.

People in the PreCheck line can leave on their shoes, belts and light jackets and outerwear. They can also leave their laptop computer in the case and their travel-size liquids don’t have to be removed.

The TSA estimates the process expedites the security line significantly, and said a 2017 study showed that 97 percent of TSA PreCheck passengers waited less than five minutes in security lines.

The certification costs $85 and to get it you have to go to the airport for an interview and bring a proof of citizenship between Feb. 26 and March 2. They will also perform a background check and take fingerprints. The certification is good for five years.

They will accept walk-in appointments during that week, but they recommend those planning on coming to set up an appointment online beforehand. Appointments are available from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. each day that week.

To schedule an appointment online, go to www.identogo.com/precheck. Click “Apply Now” then select Kalispell as the location.

For any additional information or if you are having issues signing up for an appointment online, contact Courtenay@bigskypublicrelations.com or by phone at 406-261-7665.

Reporter Peregrine Frissell can be reached at (406) 758-4438 or pfrissell@dailyinterlake.com.