Port workers can enter American ports without going through security if they have a transportation worker identification credential.It is easy to apply for a TWIC card from the Transportation and Security Administration (TSA).To verify your identity, you will need to fill out an application.There is an appeals process if you're rejected.The card can save time on the job.
Step 1: It's best to start before you need the card.
It will take at least 3-6 weeks for the application to be processed.You should start as soon as possible.TWIC cards are good for 5 years, so you can apply as early as you want.
Step 2: If you are eligible, determine if it is possible.
You need to have a job or frequent business at the port in order to get a TWIC card.You have to have no felony convictions on your record.If you were not charged with treason, murder, or espionage, you may still be able to get a TWIC card.You might need to go through an additional appeals process.
Step 3: The form can be filled out online, on the phone or in person.
You must give your full name, gender, date of birth, and email or phone number to apply.You will be asked if you prefer to be contacted by phone or email.You can fill out the application over the phone between 8 a.m. and 10 p.You can fill out the application at any center.You can ask the receptionist for an application.
Step 4: You can make an appointment at an enroll center.
You can walk in without an appointment, but the wait times will be long.You can make an appointment by phone or online.As soon as you submit your application, you can set up your appointment.You can make an appointment online by going to the universalenroll.dhs.gov.The line is open on Saturdays and Sundays.You can find your nearest enroll center here.Pick TWIC from the drop down menu next to the search bar.
Step 5: Get your identification documents.
You will need to show identification at your appointment.You can prove your identity and citizenship with these documents.You only need to bring one document if you have a passport, green card, or Global Entry card.If you don't have any of those documents, you need to bring a photo ID and proof of citizenship in the form of a birth certificate or certificate of naturalization.Bring your commercial driver's license or FAST card to receive the discounted fee.
Step 6: Bring your documents to the center.
Wait times can be long at the centers.During your appointment, staff will take your fingerprints and photograph you.They will look at your documents to verify your identity.You will not be allowed to wear religious head wear or eyeglasses on a daily basis for the photograph.
Step 7: The TWIC card can be used to pay.
A TWIC card costs $125.25.5 years is how long this card will last.You only need to pay $105.25 if you have a valid commercial driver's license with a hazardous materials endorsement.Your license and TWIC card will both expire at the same time.You can pay with a credit or debit card.
Step 8: You can choose to have your TWIC card delivered in one of the following ways.
It can either be mailed to you or sent to an enrollee center.It will take 3-6 weeks for your enroll to be processed and delivered.You can check the status of your application by going to the universalenroll.dhs.gov.Staff will perform a background check on you.National and international databases will be used to confirm your identity.When you pick up your card, you will get a phone call or email letting you know when it's ready.You should bring a photo ID with you to the center.You will be sent a letter with instructions on how to appeal the decision if you are disqualified from having a TWIC.
Step 9: Determine if you are eligible to appeal.
A failed background check is why applications are denied.If you submit an appeal, you can still get a TWIC card even if you have been charged or convicted in the past.If you were charged but not convicted of a crime, you are eligible.You have convictions that are not felonies.You were found guilty of simple drug possession.There are no current warrants or indictments against you.You have not been in jail for the last 5 years because of a felony conviction from 7 years ago.If you were charged with a felony within the last 7 years, you have to request a waiver with your appeal.
Step 10: There are documents about your conviction.
The documents need to come from a court, district attorney, or police.They need to show that your charge was dismissed, that you were found not guilty, and that there was a conviction.If you were convicted of a felony over 7 years ago, you should visit your local court and ask for copies of documents showing your conviction.You should collect any documents from prison or jail that show your release date was more than five years ago.
Step 11: The cover sheet is needed for the TWIC Request.
The form is in the letter you received.Write why you think the rejection was unjust.You should make a copy of this form and all of the documents you are sending to the TSA after you have filled it out.
Step 12: If you were convicted of a felony within the last 7 years, you should ask for a waiver.
You can still get a TWIC card.You can provide additional documents with your package.Waivers are usually approved if the necessary documents are provided.A personal statement explaining your conviction, employment history at the port, and personal growth since the conviction are included.Your release date is verified by a document from prison or jail.A document from your parole officer states that you have followed the rules.There are letters of support.You should have at least 2 from your supervisor, parole officer, and friends or family.Since your conviction, any proof that you participated in drug rehabilitation programs, anger management training, counseling, or other training.You can get certificates from these programs or letters from counselors.
Step 13: The form and documents need to be sent to the TSA within 60 days.
The date on the letter is important.You have 60 days to mail your documents.Ask the post office for a delivery confirmation receipt when you mail these forms.This will show you the proof that you sent the documents.The form should be sent to the TWIC Processing Center.Box 8118 is located in Virginia.Within 60 days of receiving the documents, the TSA will make a decision.If the appeal was accepted or denied, you will receive a letter in the mail.
Step 14: Your TWIC card is protected.
You will get a hard plastic case with your TWIC.It's a good idea to keep your card in this case.If you put the card near a magnet, avoid bending it.For the full 5 years, these practices will keep your card working.
Step 15: When you're ready to renew, repeat the process again.
After 5 years, your TWIC card will no longer be valid.You will have to go through the same process as getting a brand new card to get a new one.Wait for your new card to come after filling out an application and visiting an enroll center.$125.25 will be needed for a new card.You should start the process up to 12 weeks before your old card expires because it can take so long to get a new card.
Step 16: To replace a lost or broken card, fill out a form online.
Call or fill out a form online if you lost your card.You will be asked to make another appointment during this process.$60 is the cost to replace a lost card.You can replace a card online at the universalenroll.dhs.gov.You can do it over the phone on weekdays between 8 and 10 p.m.