Is TSA PreCheck closed in 2026? DHS announced a suspension, but TSA says lanes remain open at many airports. Full travel update here.

Is TSA PreCheck Closed Right Now?

As of February 2026, TSA PreCheck remains operational at many U.S. airports, even after the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a temporary suspension due to the partial government shutdown.

The confusion began when the Department of Homeland Security said it would suspend TSA PreCheck and Global Entry starting Sunday at 6 a.m. ET due to lack of funding.

However, the Transportation Security Administration later clarified that:

“TSA PreCheck remains operational with no change for the traveling public.”

Instead of a nationwide closure, TSA is evaluating operations on a case-by-case basis depending on staffing levels.

Why Did DHS Announce TSA PreCheck Suspension?

The partial government shutdown left DHS without approved funding.

Because TSA operates under DHS, officials warned they could not risk:

• Overstretching staff
• Weakening airport security
• Operating expedited lanes without full resources

TSA officers and customs agents are classified as essential employees, meaning they are working without pay during the shutdown.

If you’re unsure how changing security procedures could affect you, read our complete breakdown:
Do TSA Rules Require You to Take Off Your Headphones? (2026 Complete Guide)

Are TSA PreCheck Lanes Open at Major Airports?

Reports and social media posts show that PreCheck lanes remained open Sunday at airports including:

• Minneapolis
• Washington, DC
• Orlando
• San Francisco

At Los Angeles International Airport, officials briefly posted that PreCheck customers were being diverted to general screening lanes — but later removed the message.

This suggests airport-specific operational decisions rather than a full nationwide shutdown.

What About Global Entry?

Global Entry — which includes TSA PreCheck benefits — was also included in the DHS suspension announcement.

However, similar to PreCheck, some locations appear to still be processing travelers depending on staffing.

Travelers with active memberships can still:

• Use standard TSA security lines
• Use standard passport control lines

No refunds or extensions have been announced yet.

See our full guide: USA Carry-On Rules for 2026: TSA Size, Liquids & Battery Rules Explained

Will TSA Wait Times Increase?

If expedited lanes close at more airports, travelers could see:

• Longer security wait times
• Increased congestion in general screening
• Slower immigration processing

This comes during an already busy travel period, with airlines like JetBlue and Delta Air Lines issuing travel waivers ahead of a major Northeast snowstorm.

Historically, airport disruptions during government shutdowns have increased pressure on lawmakers to pass funding legislation.

How Much Does TSA PreCheck Cost?

TSA PreCheck costs:

• $76.75 for a 5-year membership
• Renewals start at approximately $58

Global Entry costs:

• $120 for 5 years
• Includes TSA PreCheck benefits

👉 Read: Flying Without a REAL ID in 2026: TSA $45 Confirm.ID Fee, Rules & Accepted IDs.

Is CLEAR Affected?

CLEAR — a privately operated expedited security program — appears to be operating normally since it does not rely on federal funding in the same way.

However, CLEAR members still pass through TSA screening after identity verification.

FAQ: TSA PreCheck Shutdown 2026

Bottom Line

Despite DHS announcing a suspension, TSA PreCheck is still operating at many U.S. airports in 2026.

Travelers should prepare for possible delays, monitor airport updates, and arrive earlier than usual during the government shutdown period.

If funding is restored, all expedited lanes are expected to resume normal operations.