How do I get my TWIC?
- Delta Force Transport News
- Oct 31, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: Sep 14
77 Sugar Creek Center Blvd
SugarLand,Texas 77478
Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card is a biometric ID issued by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). It verifies the identity and eligibility of individuals who need access to secure arTheeas of transportation facilities and vessels.
While not all truck drivers need a TWIC card, it is crucial for those requiring access to secure areas within ports, terminals, and other transportation facilities. For truck drivers operating in these regions, obtaining a TWIC card may be beneficial or even necessary.
To qualify for a TWIC card, you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or a nonimmigrant alien authorized to work in the United States. You must also successfully pass a security threat assessment conducted by the TSA.
Complete the Application: Fill out the application online or in person at a designated application center.
Schedule an Appointment: Book an appointment online to visit the application center.
Visit the Application Center: Attend your scheduled appointment at the TWIC application center and bring the required documentation.
Provide Documentation: Present necessary documents.
Fingerprinting: Undergo fingerprinting (if you’ve been fingerprinted for a hazmat endorsement, you can use the same prints).
Photo Capture: Have your facial photo taken.
Identification Documents: Present acceptable ID, such as a U.S. passport, driver’s license, or birth certificate.
Pay the Fee: Submit the non-refundable fee using a credit card, company check, money order, or certified/cashier’s check.
Receive TWIC Card: After completing the application process, you will receive your TWIC card by mail or can pick it up at the application center. You can track your application status online.
A TWIC card is crucial for individuals in industries that require access to secure transportation facilities. It enhances security measures and maintains the integrity of these environments. If you're a truck driver operating in areas where a TWIC card is necessary, consider applying to expand your opportunities in the industry.
Pre-enroll using the online application or you can complete the entire process in person at an application center.
Schedule an appointment online or call (855) 347-8371 weekdays, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET. Walk-ins are welcome but appointments take priority.
Visit a TWIC application center to:
Provide required documentation, be fingerprinted and take a facial photo. Bring your current U.S. passport or a driver’s license and birth certificate. See other acceptable documents.
Pay a non-refundable fee valid for five years with a credit card, money order, company check or certified/cashier’s check.
New applicant: $125.25
New applicant reduced rate: $93.00*
In-Person renewal: $125.25
Online renewal: $117.25
Replacement card: $60.00
You can have your card mailed to your home address or you can pick it up at the application center. You can check your status online at any time.
To begin the application process for a TWIC card, you should either complete the application online, which can be done from the comfort of your own home, or you may opt to visit a designated application center in person, depending on your preference; in either case, you will need to ensure that you have all necessary information readily available. Once you have submitted your application, it is important to schedule an appointment online, which will allow you to visit the application center at a designated time; this step is crucial, as walk-ins may not be accepted, and appointments help to streamline the process.
When you arrive at the application center for your scheduled appointment, you should bring with you all the required documentation, which includes a valid form of identification and any other pertinent papers; additionally, you will undergo fingerprinting, although if you have previously been fingerprinted for a hazmat endorsement, you may use the same prints, which could save you some time. At this point, you will also have your facial photo taken as part of the identification process, ensuring that your TWIC card will feature a clear image for security purposes.
Furthermore, it is essential to present acceptable identification documents, which can include a
Summary:
Step | Action |
1 | Make sure you’re eligible and have a FAST card |
2 | Pre-enroll online (optional but saves time) |
3 | Go to enrollment center with IDs & FAST card |
4 | Pay reduced fee of $93.00 |
5 | Wait for background check to clear |
6 | Receive your TWIC card (mail or pickup) |
U.S. passport, a driver’s license, or a birth certificate; these documents will serve to verify your identity and eligibility. You will also need to pay the non-refundable fee, which can be done using various methods such as a credit card, a company check, a money order, or a certified or cashier’s check, so be sure to choose the method that is most convenient for you.
Pay the Renewal Fee
Type | Fee |
Standard TWIC renewal | $125.25 |
Discounted renewal (with FAST, HME, etc.) | $93.00 |
After you have successfully completed the application process, you will receive your TWIC card by mail, or you may choose to pick it up at the application center; additionally, you can track your application status online to stay informed about its progress. Ultimately, it is worth noting that a TWIC card is essential for individuals who work in industries that require access to secure
Set a reminder 6–12 months before expiration to renew. It can take several weeks to get a new card!
Situation | Action |
Expired < 1 year | You may still renew online or in-person |
Expired > 1 year | You must reapply as a new applicant |
Still working in a port/facility | Inform your employer and reapply immediately |
Not working in maritime/transportation currently | You can wait, but you’ll need to start over later |
transportation facilities, as it significantly enhances security measures and ensures the integrity of these critical environments. Therefore, if you are a truck driver operating in areas where a TWIC card is necessary, it would be prudent to consider going through the application process to obtain one, as doing so may greatly expand your opportunities within the industry and enhance your professional credentials.
important Reminders:
Topic | Info |
Security | A lost TWIC card should be reported quickly to prevent misuse |
Replacement Fee | $60.00 (non-refundable) |
Do Not Work with Expired or Invalid Card | Ports and employers will not accept expired or invalid cards |
Twic Card
What are TWIC cards used for?TWIC cards serve as identification and access control for individuals needing entry to secure areas of transportation facilities and vessels.
How hard is it to get a TWIC card?Obtaining a TWIC card involves completing an application, submitting required documentation, passing a security threat assessment, and paying a fee. While the process requires some effort, it is manageable if you meet the eligibility criteria.
How long does a TWIC card last?A TWIC card is generally valid for five years from the date of issuance.
Does a TWIC card require a drug test?No, a drug test is not required as part of the TWIC card application process. However, individuals may need to undergo drug testing based on employer requirements or specific job roles.
Can you get your TWIC card online?No, you cannot obtain a TWIC card entirely online. While you can start the application process online, you must visit a TWIC application center in person to complete necessary steps, including fingerprinting and photo identification.
How to Schedule an In-Person TWIC Enrollment Appointment?
You may make an appointment online through the TSA Enrollment website or by calling (855) 347-8371 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET. If pre-enrollment is available, you may make an appointment online during the pre-enrollment process.
What are TWIC cards used for?A TWIC® (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) card is used as a form of identification and access control for individuals who need unescorted access to secure areas of maritime facilities and vessels regulated by the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA). It is commonly required for port workers, mariners, truck drivers, and others involved in maritime transportation.
How hard is it to get a TWIC card?Getting a TWIC card is not overly difficult if you meet the eligibility requirements. The process includes:
Completing an application (online or in person)
Providing biographic and biometric information (fingerprints and a photo)
Presenting valid identification documents
Passing a security threat assessment conducted by the TSA
Paying a nonrefundable fee
The main reasons applicants are denied usually involve criminal history or immigration status.
How long does a TWIC card last?A TWIC card is generally valid for five years from the date of issuance.
Does a TWIC card require a drug test?No, a drug test is not part of the TWIC application process. However, employers—especially in transportation, maritime, or port industries—may require a drug test as a condition of employment.
Can you get your TWIC card online?No, you cannot receive your TWIC card online. While you can start the application process online through the Universal Enroll website, you must visit a TWIC Enrollment Center in person to:
Provide fingerprints
Take a photo
Show your identity documents
Once approved, your card can either be shipped to your home or picked up at the center.
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