Bemidji Airport Hosts Pop-Up TSA PreCheck Enrollment Event in April

PreCheck holders move through security at Minneapolis-St. Paul without removing shoes, belts, or light jackets and can keep laptops and liquids inside carry-on bags. Until now, getting enrolled in that federal program meant driving well outside of northern Minnesota to a staffed enrollment center. That changes April 8 and 9, when Bemidji Regional Airport (BJI) and the Bemidji Area Chamber of Commerce host a pop-up TSA PreCheck enrollment event directly at BJI.

Registration opened March 20, and organizers warn that all 120 available appointments could fill quickly. Instructions on what to bring and links to register are posted on the airport's website and on the Bemidji Area Chamber's events page.

The pop-up will be staffed by an authorized enrollment provider following the same federal process used at permanent centers. Attendees must appear in person for identity verification and fingerprinting. A passport or REAL ID, plus supporting documentation, is required at the appointment. Approved applicants receive a five-year PreCheck membership.

The airport's announcement also flags REAL ID compliance as a broader travel reminder for northern Minnesota residents. Recent federal identification requirements have changed what is accepted at departure, and travelers who have not confirmed their ID qualifies should do so before their next flight.

With 120 slots spread across two days and registration already nine days underway, the window to enroll locally rather than drive hours to the nearest permanent site is closing.