Few things are more frustrating than arriving at the airport early, only to be pulled aside for additional screening every time you fly. For some travellers, it isn't bad luck. It's because their name is being confused with someone else's.
If you've ever booked a flight and noticed a field asking for a redress number, you might have wondered what it's for and whether you need one.
A redress number is a unique seven-digit identifier issued through the US Department of Homeland Security's Traveler Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP). It helps travellers who are repeatedly mistaken for someone on a government watchlist by allowing airlines and security agencies to distinguish them during security screening and flight bookings.
Whether you fly regularly for work or take the occasional holiday, understanding how a redress number works can save you time, stress, and unnecessary airport delays.
What is a TSA redress number?
A TSA redress number is a unique identification number issued by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) through its Traveler Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP).
Its purpose is simple: to help resolve cases where legitimate travellers are repeatedly identified as someone else during airport security screening.
For example, if your name is similar to someone on a government watchlist, you may regularly experience additional TSA screening, delayed boarding, difficulty checking in online, or repeated requests to verify your identity. These issues can happen even if you've never done anything wrong.
After reviewing your case, DHS TRIP may issue you a seven-digit redress number. Adding this number to future flight bookings helps airlines and security agencies distinguish you from someone with a similar name, making it less likely that you'll experience the same delays every time you travel.
A redress number helps security agencies identify you correctly when your reservation is mistakenly linked to someone else. Once you've added it to your bookings, it can reduce repeated secondary screening, unnecessary identity checks, delays caused by watchlist name matches, and other recurring travel disruptions.
It's important to understand what a redress number doesn't do. It doesn't give you priority at the airport or allow you to skip security screening. It also isn't a replacement for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, your passport, or any other travel document, and it doesn't guarantee you'll never be selected for additional screening. Security officers can still carry out extra checks whenever they're considered necessary.
Redress number vs Known Traveler Number
Although both numbers appear on airline bookings, they serve different purposes.
A Known Traveler Number (KTN) is linked to trusted traveller programmes such as TSA PreCheck and Global Entry. A redress number is linked to DHS TRIP and is intended for travellers who have experienced recurring security issues because of mistaken identity.
Here's a quick comparison.
| Feature |
Redress number |
Known Traveler Number (KTN) |
| Issued by |
DHS TRIP |
TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS or SENTRI |
| Purpose |
Resolves recurring mistaken identity issues |
Provides access to expedited security screening |
| Who needs it? |
Travellers repeatedly flagged during security checks |
Travellers enrolled in a trusted traveller programme |
| Helps avoid watchlist confusion |
Yes |
No |
Gives access to
TSA PreCheck lanes |
No |
Yes (if enrolled in TSA PreCheck) |
Can you have both?
|
Yes |
Yes |
The two numbers aren't interchangeable, and one doesn't replace the other.
If you're frequently delayed because your identity is confused with someone else's, a redress number may help resolve the issue. If your goal is simply to spend less time in airport security queues, a Known Traveler Number is the one you'll need.
Some frequent travellers use both. A redress number helps ensure they're correctly identified, while a Known Traveler Number allows them to access faster security screening through eligible programmes.
Who needs a redress number?
Most travellers will never need a redress number.
However, if you experience the same security issues almost every time you fly, it's worth considering whether mistaken identity could be the cause.
A redress number may be worth applying for if you're repeatedly selected for additional screening, struggle to check in online, experience boarding delays, or are frequently asked to verify your identity because your name matches someone on a government watchlist.
Common examples
Imagine your name is John Williams, Maria Garcia, or another common name shared by thousands of people.
If someone with a similar name appears on a government watchlist, automated screening systems may flag your reservation for additional checks until your identity can be confirmed.
The same thing can happen if your personal information has previously been mixed up with another traveller's records.
While airline staff can often resolve the issue before departure, the repeated delays can become frustrating, especially if you travel regularly.
A redress number isn't the same as TSA PreCheck
Some travellers assume they should apply for TSA PreCheck if they're frequently selected for additional screening, but these programmes solve different problems.
TSA PreCheck is designed to speed up the airport security process for eligible travellers. A redress number is designed to reduce recurring security issues caused by mistaken identity.
If you've never experienced repeated delays or screening problems, you probably don't need a redress number. Likewise, if your goal is simply to get through security more quickly, a trusted traveller programme such as TSA PreCheck or Global Entry is likely to be the better option.
For travellers who regularly fly within or from the United States, it's also worth reviewing the TSA's guidance on additional security screening before submitting a redress request.
How to apply for a redress number
If you believe you've been repeatedly delayed or selected for additional screening because of mistaken identity, you can submit a redress number application through the Department of Homeland Security's Traveler Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP).
The application is completed online and is free to submit. During the process, DHS reviews your case to determine whether your travel difficulties are linked to government watchlists or other identity issues. If appropriate, you'll receive a redress number to use on future bookings.
Here's how the process works.
Step 1: Visit the DHS TRIP website
Start by visiting the official DHS TRIP portal, where you'll find the online application form and guidance on who should apply.
You should only submit an application if you've experienced recurring travel problems, such as repeated secondary screening or being consistently mistaken for another traveller. Occasional delays or random security checks aren't usually enough to justify a redress request.
Step 2: Complete the application
You'll be asked to provide information that helps DHS verify your identity and investigate your case.
This typically includes:
- your full legal name
- date of birth
- contact information
- passport details
- a description of the travel issues you've experienced
Providing accurate information is important, as inconsistencies can delay your application.
Step 3: Upload supporting documents
You'll also need to submit documents that confirm your identity.
Depending on your circumstances, these may include a copy of your passport, driver's licence or other government-issued identification. If you have documents related to previous travel disruptions, you can include those as well to support your application.
Step 4: Submit your application
Once you've reviewed your information, submit the application through the DHS TRIP portal.
You'll receive a confirmation along with a case number, which you can use to track your request and communicate with DHS if additional information is needed.
How long does a redress number application take?
There's no guaranteed processing time.
Some applications are completed within a few weeks, while others can take several months depending on the complexity of the case and whether additional information is required.
If your application is approved, DHS will notify you and provide your seven-digit redress number. Keep it somewhere safe, as you'll need to enter it whenever you book future flights.
Where to enter your redress number
Once you've received your redress number, you'll want to use it consistently whenever you travel.
Most airlines include a field for a redress number during the booking process. Entering it when you make your reservation gives the airline the information it needs to pass your details to security agencies before your flight.
If you fly regularly, it's even easier to save your redress number in your airline frequent flyer profile. Many airlines automatically add the information to future bookings, so you won't have to enter it every time you purchase a ticket.
If you're enrolled in programmes such as Global Entry, it's also worth checking whether your travel profile allows you to save your redress number alongside your other traveller information. Keeping everything up to date reduces the chance of forgetting to include it on future trips.
If you accidentally leave it off a booking, some airlines let you add or update your passenger information before check-in through their website or mobile app.
What to do if your redress number doesn't work
A redress number significantly reduces the chances of recurring security issues caused by mistaken identity, but it doesn't guarantee that every journey will be free from additional screening.
If you're still experiencing problems after adding your redress number to your booking, there are a few things to check.
First, make sure you've entered the number correctly. Even a single incorrect digit can prevent it from being matched to your traveller information.
Next, confirm that the name on your airline reservation matches the name associated with your redress number and your passport. Differences in spelling, missing middle names, or using nicknames can sometimes cause issues.
If everything is correct and you're still repeatedly selected for additional screening, contact the airline to confirm your redress number has been included in your reservation. If the problem continues across multiple trips, you can also follow up with DHS TRIP using the case number from your original application to request further assistance.
Keep in mind that a redress number only helps resolve issues related to mistaken identity. Airport security agencies can still carry out additional screening for other operational or security reasons.
Travelling internationally with a redress number
A redress number is issued by the US Department of Homeland Security, so it's primarily used for flights involving the United States.
If you're travelling domestically within the US or flying to or from the country, adding your redress number to your booking can help reduce delays caused by mistaken identity during the security screening process.
Outside the United States, the benefits are more limited. Other countries operate their own border control and security systems, and a US-issued redress number doesn't automatically apply to international security checks.
That said, because airlines often share passenger information before international flights, having a redress number can still help ensure you're correctly identified on itineraries involving the United States.
Make international travel easier with Grey
Airport security isn't the only thing worth preparing before an international trip.
Managing your money abroad can be just as important, especially if you're paying in different currencies or travelling to multiple countries.
With Grey, you can hold multiple currencies, send money internationally, and get the Grey virtual debit card for travel. It's a convenient way to pay online and in person while keeping your travel spending organised.
Planning ahead can also help you avoid unexpected costs while you're away. Before your trip, it's worth reading our guides on how to avoid international roaming charges and how to avoid foreign transaction fees so you know what to expect before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
Is a redress number the same as a TSA PreCheck number?
No. A redress number is issued through DHS TRIP to help resolve recurring travel issues caused by mistaken identity. A Known Traveler Number is issued through trusted traveller programmes such as TSA PreCheck and Global Entry and provides access to expedited security screening.
How long does it take to get a redress number?
Processing times vary depending on the complexity of your case. Some applications are completed within a few weeks, while others may take several months. DHS will notify you once your review has been completed.
Does a redress number expire?
A redress number doesn't normally expire. Once it's issued, you can continue using it when booking future flights unless you're instructed otherwise by DHS.
Can children get a redress number?
Yes. If a child is repeatedly experiencing travel delays or additional screening because of mistaken identity, a parent or legal guardian can submit a DHS TRIP application on their behalf.
Does a redress number guarantee I won't be selected for additional screening?
No. A redress number helps resolve issues caused by mistaken identity, but it doesn't prevent airport security agencies from carrying out additional screening for other reasons.
How does Grey help when travelling internationally?
Grey helps travellers manage money across borders by letting you hold multiple currencies, send international transfers, and use a virtual debit card for purchases while travelling abroad.
Get the Grey virtual debit card for travel
A redress number can make travelling less stressful if you've been repeatedly delayed because of mistaken identity. Once you've received one, adding it to your airline bookings can help reduce unnecessary security issues and make future journeys more predictable.
Once you've sorted your airport security, the next thing to think about is spending abroad without unnecessary fees. With Grey, you can hold multiple currencies, send money internationally, and pay with a virtual debit card designed for international spending.
Get the Grey virtual card and make your next trip easier to manage.
.svg){kind=small}
