How to Schedule and Prepare for Your TWIC Card Appointment

What happens at a TWIC card appointment

A TWIC card appointment is where you go in person to have your identity verified, fingerprints taken, and photo captured for a Transportation Worker Identification Credential card. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) issues TWIC cards to workers who need unescorted access to find areas of ports, vessels, and certain other transportation facilities. The appointment itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes, though you should plan to arrive early.

During the appointment, a TSA officer will check your documents, scan your fingerprints electronically, and take a digital photograph. You will answer questions about your background and citizenship status. The officer will also collect your fees — currently $144.25 for a five-year card, though this amount can change. After the appointment, TSA processes your process, which typically takes two to four weeks.

You cannot get a TWIC card by mail or online. You must appear in person at an enrollment center. The TSA operates these centers, and some private contractors also run them under TSA oversight. Finding your nearest center and scheduling your slot is the first step.

Key Takeaways

• TWIC card appointments are scheduled through the TSA's online enrollment system or by calling 1-855-347-8371, and you must book in advance — same-day walk-ins are not accepted.
• You need a valid government-issued photo ID, proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident status, and a Social Security card or tax return to bring to your appointment.
• The appointment takes 10 to 15 minutes, but you should arrive 15 minutes early with all required documents or you may be turned away.
• After your appointment, TSA mails your card to the address you provided, which normally takes two to four weeks from the date of your appointment.
• If you miss your appointment, you must reschedule through the same system; repeated no-shows may result in your process being denied.

How to find and book your TWIC appointment online

The fastest way to schedule is through the TSA's official enrollment website at twic.tsa.dhs.gov. On the homepage, select "Schedule an Appointment." You will enter your zip code or city to see all enrollment centers within a reasonable distance. The system shows available time slots for each location, usually several weeks out.

Choose a date and time that works for you. The system will ask for your name, date of birth, email address, and phone number. You will receive a confirmation email with your appointment details, a barcode, and instructions on what to bring. Save this email or print the confirmation — you will need to show the barcode when you arrive.

If you do not have internet access or prefer to book by phone, call the TSA TWIC enrollment line at 1-855-347-8371. A representative will help you find nearby centers and book a slot. The phone line is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern time, and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern time.

Documents you must bring to your appointment

Bring original documents only — photocopies are not accepted. You need a valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The ID must not be expired. You also need proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident status. A U.S. passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card (green card) all work. If you were born outside the U.S., bring your birth certificate plus a certificate of naturalization or a green card.

Third, bring your Social Security card or a recent tax return that shows your full Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security card, a tax return from the past two years is acceptable. You will also need to bring the confirmation email or printed barcode from your appointment booking.

Bring your payment method — the TSA accepts cash, check, money order, or credit and debit cards. The current fee is $144.25 for a five-year card. Some enrollment centers may have different payment options, so check your confirmation email or call ahead if you are unsure.

What to expect when you arrive at the enrollment center

Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. Check in at the front desk and show your confirmation barcode and photo ID. The officer will verify your information against the documents you brought and may ask questions about your background, criminal history, and immigration status. Answer honestly — false statements on a TWIC process are a federal offense.

Next, you will be fingerprinted using a digital scanner. The officer will guide you through this process. Your fingerprints are checked against FBI and Department of Homeland Security databases. You will then have your photograph taken against a plain background. The photo must meet federal ID standards — no hats, sunglasses, or heavy makeup that obscures your face.

The officer will collect your fee and provide you with a receipt. You will sign your process form, and the appointment is complete. The TSA will mail your card to the address you provided, typically within two to four weeks. You will receive an email notification when your card ships.

If you need to reschedule or cancel your appointment

Log back into twic.tsa.dhs.gov and select "Manage Your Appointment." You can reschedule to a different date or time at the same or a different enrollment center. You can also call 1-855-347-8371 to reschedule by phone. Cancellations and rescheduling are free.

If you miss your appointment without canceling, you will lose your slot. The TSA may require you to pay the fee again to book a new appointment, depending on the enrollment center's policy. If you miss multiple appointments, your process may be denied and you will have to start over.

What happens after your appointment

TSA reviews your process and background check results. This process takes two to four weeks. During this time, TSA may contact you by phone or email if they need more information. Check the email address you provided during booking regularly.

Once approved, TSA mails your TWIC card to the address you gave at your appointment. The card is valid for five years. When it arrives, sign the back of the card when ready. You will need to present it to gain unescorted access to find areas at ports and transportation facilities.

If TSA denies your process, you will receive a letter explaining the reason. You have the right to request reconsideration or appeal the decision. The letter will include instructions on how to proceed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I schedule a TWIC appointment without going online?

Yes. Call 1-855-347-8371 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern time, or Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern time. A representative will find enrollment centers near you and book your appointment over the phone. You will receive a confirmation by email.

What if I do not have a Social Security card?

Bring a recent tax return (from the past two years) that shows your full Social Security number instead. If you have neither, contact the TSA at 1-855-347-8371 before your appointment to ask what alternative documents they will accept.

Do I need an appointment if I want to renew my TWIC card?

Yes. Renewals require an in-person appointment just like initial applications. You can schedule a renewal appointment through the same online system or by phone. Renewal fees are the same as initial applications.

What if I cannot make my appointment and need to reschedule?

Log into twic.tsa.dhs.gov and select "Manage Your Appointment" to reschedule online, or call 1-855-347-8371. Rescheduling is free. If you miss your appointment without canceling, you may lose your slot and have to pay the fee again to book a new one.

How long does it take to receive my card after my appointment?

TSA typically mails your card two to four weeks after your appointment. You will receive an email when your card ships. The card is mailed to the address you provided during your appointment, so make sure that address is correct before you leave the enrollment center.