TWIC FAQ Blog
What is a TWIC Card?
A Transportation Worker Identification Credential Card is a identification card administered by Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to offer qualified workers access to facilities and vessels in secure areas. A TWIC card is considered one of the highest credentials offered. Requiring TWIC cards could help your facility save thousands of dollars in background vetting costs for your employees, contractors, and visitors.
What are the benefits of being a TWIC Card holder?
The TWIC program offers a tamper-resistant biometric credential for government personnel, such as U.S. Coast Guard personnel, longshore workers, port facility workers, Maritime security staff, and cruise ship personnel. Although, it is not required to be an acting government employee to hold a TWIC card.
As a TWIC card holder, you are automatically eligible (at no cost) for TSA PreCheck so long as you meet the requirements of the TSA PreCheck Application Program, saving you time and money when traveling.
MozaicID MCR + TWIC
MozaicID’s industry trusted expert engineers have developed a stand-alone TWIC reader, allowing instant access of any MARSEC level regardless of conditions or connectivity. The MozaicID MCR provides compliance for the U.S. Coast Guard’s TWIC Reader Rule and when paired with TWIC, provides full compliance with CFATS RBPS 12(iv) through Option 3. The MozaicID MCR provides a cost effective security solution and is trusted by thousands across the nation.
Who qualifies for a TWIC Card?
If you are a U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident, naturalized citizen, nonimmigrant alien, asylees or refugee (lawful status) and pass a security threat assessment administered by TSA you are likely to qualify as a TWIC card holder. Failure to provide accurate information or certain criminal offenses can lead to disqualification. Learn more about key disqualifying factors here.
How do I apply for a TWIC Card?
You can fill out an online TWIC application here or to apply in-person visit https://universalenroll.dhs.gov/ or call (855) 347-8371 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET if pre-enrollment is available. After you have submitted your application, you will have access to the Service Status Portal where you can check the status of your application. View the Service Status Portal here.
How much does it cost to purchase a TWIC Card?
The application fee is $125.25. A reduced fee of $105.25 is available for those who hold a valid Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) or a Free Secure Trade (FAST) card.
How long is a TWIC Card valid for?
TWIC cards are valid for five years from the date they are issued. Before the expiration date, you are asked to fill out another application as if it is your first time. If you paid the reduced fee, your TWIC card will expire five years from the date your Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) or a Free Secure Trade (FAST) card was issued.