A redress number for travel is a unique identifier issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to individuals who have experienced difficulties during transportation security screenings, such as being falsely identified as a threat or experiencing delays, additional screening, or denied boarding. The main purpose of a redress number is to streamline the screening process and prevent future false matches of individuals who have been misidentified in the past.
Here are some key points about redress numbers for travel:
- A redress number is different from a Known Traveler Number, which is used to identify membership in Trusted Traveler programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry.
- Redress numbers are not required for all travelers, and most people wont have one.
- The primary benefit of a redress number is to reduce the likelihood of being targeted for additional screening, delays, or denied boarding or entry during travel.
- Redress numbers can be obtained through the DHS Traveler Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP) for individuals who believe they have been mistakenly matched to a name on the U.S. watch list and wish to avoid future misidentifications.
- Travelers may encounter requests for their redress number when filling out forms or providing information for travel bookings, along with their Known Traveler Number.
