How to Apply for the TSA FLIGHT TRAINING SECURITY PROGRAM
Required for Non-US Citizens
✈︎ Step 1: Register on the Candidate Portal
Go to https://fts.tsa.dhs.gov/home and create an account by registering on the Candidate Portal.
✈︎ Step 2: Fill in Your Information
Complete all required fields with your personal details.
✈︎ Step 3: Log in to your FTSP Account and complete additional information
After filling in your personal information and creating a USER ID
TSA will send you a password within 24–48 hours.
Follow the instructions in the email to change your password.
FTSP will ask for additional information once logged in for the first time.
✈︎ Step 4: Submit Your Application
After filling in your details, submit your application.
You are submitting for an initial flight training.
✈︎ Step 5: Pay for the Background Check
Once the application is submitted, you will receive an email asking you to pay $140 for the background check.
NOTE: Once approved, this application will be valid for 5 years and will allow you to switch schools without any additional charges.
✈︎ Step 6: TSA Reviews Your Documents
TSA will review the documents you submitted. If any information is missing, they will ask you to upload additional documents.
✈︎ Step 7: Submit Your Fingerprints
Once TSA is ready for your fingerprints, you will get an email with instructions on how to submit them.
Wait for the official "Fingerprint Instructions" email from TSA before submitting your fingerprints. If you submit early, your fingerprints will be invalidated, and your training request will be canceled.
The fingerprinting fee is $99, paid to a third-party service.
✈︎ Step 8: Wait for Background Check Approval
TSA will complete your background check in about 3–4 weeks. Once approved, you will receive a confirmation email.
✈︎ Step 9: Contact Your Flight School
After receiving approval, contact the flight school you wish to attend.
The flight school will complete a few steps on their end to finalize your approval.