Gateside PreCheck comes to these California airports. How to apply

A new program will allow non-fliers access beyond the security gates at two California airports. The pilot program by the Transportation Security Administration, called Gateside by TSA PreCheck, launched at 13 airports nationwide including Los Angeles International Airport and San Diego Internationa

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What is the story about?

A new program will allow non-fliers access beyond the security gates at two California airports.

The pilot program by the Transportation Security Administration, called Gateside by TSA PreCheck, launched at 13 airports nationwide including Los Angeles International Airport and San Diego International Airport.

Announced Sept. 2, Gateside allows PreCheck members to meet family and friends for welcomes, sendoffs, dining, and shopping in the terminal without the need to have their own boarding pass.

TSA PreCheck members wait about 10 minutes or less on average at airport security checkpoints, can leave electronics and small liquids in bags and don't have to remove belts and light jackets. Enrollment is good for five years. It typically costs between

$76 and $85, but it's free in some cases.

Here's how Gateside by TSA PreCheck works.

A Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security checkpoint at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on Nov. 26, 2025.

What is Gateside by TSA PreCheck?

TSA describes Gateside as a special authorization for non-travelers who are eligible for PreCheck screening to access parts of an airport beyond the security checkpoint.

The program is the only way that non-travelers can access post-security areas of the airport using PreCheck lanes, according to TSA. Typically, non-travelers with gate passes from airlines or airport visitor programs must use regular security lanes.

People who use the Gateside authorization can use it to welcome or say goodbye to family members and friends at their gate, meet a friend on a long layover, browse airport dining and shopping outlets or greet military servicemembers returning from deployment.

Fliers must apply for a Gateside pass at least one day before their visit and no more than three days in advance.

Passes issued under the program are only valid for one day.

Who can use Gateside by TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck members and people who have Known Traveler Numbers can apply for passes under the program.

Children can join their parents or guardian, as long as their names are entered in the reservation using the "add visitor" option when applying.

How to apply for a Gateside pass

PreCheck members can get a Gateside pass from the TSA by following these instructions:

Go to tsa.gov/gateside-login.
Create or log in to your login.gov account.
Go to the application portal in your login.gov account and enter your personal information.
Submit your request and return to your dashboard to view your approval status.
If approved, go to the airport and head to the TSA PreCheck lanes. Make sure you bring an acceptable form of ID, such as a Real ID or passport. Be prepared to log in to your dashboard to show the TSA officer your approval status if you have children on your reservation.

People must apply for the pass at least one day and no more than three days before their planned visits. Availability may be limited during peak travel times.