As the federal shutdown stretches on, travelers across the United States are growing increasingly concerned about the future of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has signaled that key trusted traveler programs could face temporary suspension if funding disruptions continue a move that could impact millions of frequent flyers.
With uncertainty building, here’s what you need to know about how a prolonged shutdown could affect tsa precheck, tsa precheck global entry, and other airport security services.
Why TSA PreCheck Could Be Suspended
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security oversees both Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the agencies responsible for managing tsa precheck and global entry programs.
During a government shutdown, many federal employees are furloughed, while others continue working without pay. While airport security officers are considered essential and remain on duty, administrative and enrollment staff for programs like precheck and global entry may not.
If funding lapses continue, DHS could pause:
- New TSA PreCheck enrollments
- Renewal processing
- Global Entry interviews
- Background checks and application reviews
This scenario would not immediately cancel existing memberships, but it could freeze new approvals and delay renewals.
What Is TSA PreCheck?
For travelers who may be unfamiliar, tsa precheck is a trusted traveler program that allows approved passengers to move through airport security faster. Members typically don’t need to remove:
- Shoes
- Belts
- Light jackets
- Laptops
- Liquids
It’s available at more than 200 U.S. airports and works with over 80 airlines. The program has become increasingly popular due to shorter wait times and smoother screening.
A tsa precheck shutdown would likely disrupt the enrollment pipeline, affecting travelers planning upcoming trips.
What About Global Entry?
Global entry is designed for international travelers returning to the United States. Managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, it allows pre-approved travelers to use automated kiosks for faster customs processing.
Importantly, Global Entry membership also includes TSA PreCheck benefits. That means any pause in Global Entry processing would directly affect travelers hoping to gain tsa precheck global entry access through the combined program.
If the shutdown continues:
- In-person interviews could be canceled or postponed
- Application reviews could stall
- Conditional approvals may be delayed
For frequent international flyers, this could be a major inconvenience.
Are Current TSA PreCheck Members Affected?
If you already have active TSA PreCheck membership, you should still be able to use your benefits — at least for now. Airport security operations remain active because TSA officers are classified as essential personnel.
However, if your membership is close to expiring, a prolonged shutdown could prevent timely renewal processing. That could temporarily remove your precheck privileges until the government reopens and applications resume.
Impact on Travelers During the Shutdown
Even without a full tsa precheck shutdown, airport travel during a federal funding lapse can become unpredictable.
Potential impacts include:
- Longer security lines if staffing levels drop
- Increased wait times at international arrivals
- Slower customer service responses
- Delays in resolving Known Traveler Number issues
Travelers who rely heavily on tsa programs for smoother experiences may need to allow extra time at airports.
Why DHS Is Considering Suspension
Federal shutdowns create complex operational challenges. While frontline officers remain on duty, agencies must cut back on non-essential services when funding runs out.
Trusted traveler programs like tsa precheck and global entry involve:
- Administrative staff
- Background investigations
- Enrollment center employees
- IT system maintenance
Without consistent funding, DHS may be forced to temporarily halt parts of these services to focus on core security operations.
What Travelers Should Do Now
If you’re planning to apply for tsa precheck or global entry, it may be wise to:
- Submit your application as soon as possible.
- Schedule interviews immediately if eligible.
- Monitor official DHS and TSA updates.
- Renew early if your membership expires within the next few months.
Travelers should also check updates directly from the Transportation Security Administration website for the most accurate information.
The Bigger Picture: Shutdowns and Travel
Government shutdowns have historically created ripple effects across travel services. From passport processing delays to airport staffing challenges, federal funding gaps often impact more than travelers initially expect.
Programs like tsa precheck global entry have grown significantly in popularity over the past decade. Millions of Americans rely on them for faster travel experiences, making any disruption highly noticeable.
If DHS does move forward with a suspension, it would likely be temporary. Once funding is restored, enrollment centers and processing operations would resume.
Final Thoughts
The potential pause of tsa precheck and global entry during an extended shutdown highlights how federal funding disputes can affect everyday travelers.
For now, existing members can continue using their benefits, but new applicants and renewals may face delays if the shutdown continues.
If you’re planning upcoming travel, staying informed and preparing for longer airport lines could help you avoid surprises. In times of uncertainty, flexibility and early planning remain the best strategies.
As the situation develops, millions of travelers will be watching closely to see whether a full tsa precheck shutdown becomes reality — or if funding is restored before disruptions take hold.
