What Is TWIC Card in Trucking?
Also called: Transportation Worker Identification Credential, TWIC
A TWIC is a federal ID card that lets a worker enter secure areas of ports and other maritime facilities without an escort. TSA issues it after a background check. Truck drivers who pick up or deliver at marine terminals often need one. A TWIC costs $127 for five years, with a reduced rate of $93 for some drivers who hold a hazmat endorsement or a FAST card.
Last reviewed September 23, 2026 · Facts checked October 16, 2026
Key Points
- The Maritime Transportation Security Act requires a TWIC for workers who need access to secure areas of the nation's maritime facilities and vessels (TSA)
- TSA runs a security threat assessment, which is a background check, and issues the card. U.S. citizens and immigrants in certain immigration categories may apply
- TSA's enrollment site shows $127 for a five-year TWIC. The reduced rate is $93 for a driver with a CDL with a hazmat endorsement, or a FAST card
- At the reduced rate, the new card's expiration matches the expiration of the other credential
- TSA recommends enrolling, or renewing, at least 60 days before you need a valid card. Some applications take longer than 45 days
- TSA issues the card. The U.S. Coast Guard answers questions about card use and facility access
What is a TWIC card?
TWIC stands for Transportation Worker Identification Credential. It is a federal ID card that shows a person has passed a TSA security threat assessment. The Maritime Transportation Security Act requires it for workers who need access to secure areas of the nation's maritime facilities and vessels. Most mariners licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard also need one. For truck drivers, it is the card that lets you enter a marine terminal on your own, instead of being escorted.
Who needs a TWIC?
You need one if your work requires unescorted access to a secure area of a port or other regulated maritime facility. Drayage drivers who pick up and deliver containers at marine terminals are the most common truck drivers who need one. Whether you need a TWIC for a particular site depends on the facility and the Coast Guard's rules. If a facility lets a driver in with an escort, the driver may not need one for that stop. Ask the carrier and the terminal before you apply.
How much does a TWIC cost, and how long does it last?
TSA's enrollment site lists $127 for a five-year TWIC. A reduced rate of $93 is offered to a driver who presents a valid CDL with a hazmat endorsement, or a Free and Secure Trade (FAST) card. If you take the reduced rate, your new TWIC expires when the comparable credential expires. Fees can change, so check the amount on TSA's enrollment site before you pay.
How long does a TWIC take, and how do you apply?
You start online, then complete an in-person enrollment at an application center, where TSA collects your documents. TSA does the background check and then mails the card. TSA recommends that you enroll, including for a renewal, at least 60 days before you need a valid TWIC. TSA also says it is seeing high demand, and some applications take more than 45 days. You can check your application status on the TSA enrollment site or by calling the number listed there.
Can a TWIC be used for REAL ID or TSA PreCheck?
We could not confirm that from TSA's pages, so do not assume it. A TWIC is meant for access to maritime facilities. TSA's TWIC page lists a separate topic about TSA PreCheck for TWIC cardholders. Read it on TSA's website before you count on it. For REAL ID, check with TSA and your state licensing agency. Do not use a TWIC in place of your CDL on the road. It does not replace a driver's license.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a TWIC card?+
A TWIC is a federal ID card from TSA that lets a worker enter secure areas of ports and other maritime facilities without an escort. TSA issues it after a background check.
How long is a TWIC card valid?+
TSA's enrollment site lists a five-year TWIC for $127. If you take the reduced rate, the card expires when your hazmat endorsement or FAST card expires.
How much is a TWIC card?+
TSA's enrollment site shows $127 for five years. The reduced rate is $93 for a driver with a CDL with a hazmat endorsement, or a FAST card. Fees can change, so check the TSA site before you pay.
How long does it take to get a TWIC card?+
TSA recommends enrolling at least 60 days before you need a valid TWIC, and says some applications take more than 45 days. After the background check, the card is mailed.
Can anyone get a TWIC card?+
No. U.S. citizens and immigrants in certain immigration categories may apply, and TSA must clear them in a security threat assessment. TSA's TWIC page has the rules.
Does a TWIC card work as a REAL ID or for TSA PreCheck?+
We could not confirm that from TSA's pages. TSA has a separate page on TSA PreCheck for TWIC cardholders. Read it before you count on it, and check REAL ID rules with TSA and your state.
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This is industry terminology and typical practice. It is not legal or tax advice. Rates, fees, and rules mentioned are general ranges. Confirm the details on your rate confirmation, carrier agreement, or a current official source.