TWIC FAQs

Who Must Have a TWIC?

• Anyone who needs access to MTSA-regulated areas without an escort is required to have a TWIC. This includes port employees, truck drivers, long shore workers, and those who have a Coast Guard-issued merchant mariner license.

Do Cruise Ship Employees Need a TWIC?

• Most cruise ship employees do not need a TWIC since they are working in passenger access areas only. Employees who need access to secure or restricted areas much obtain a TWIC.

Do TWIC Cards Expire?

• TWIC cards have an expiration date five years after the date of issue. The expiration date is found on the front of the card.

Is My Application Data Secure?

• Since the application requires personal information, TWIC employees take great care in protecting applicant information. Data is scanned into a system and then encrypted before being stored at a government facility to ensure security.

Can I Use a TWIC Card at Airport Security?

• TWIC cards are considered official government photo ID cards and are accepted at airport security checkpoints.

What Should I do if my Card is Lost, Stolen, or Damaged?

• If your TWIC card is lost, stolen or damaged, call the TWIC help desk at 1-866-347-8942 to request a replacement card. Replacement cards cost $60 as of June 2010.

How Long Does it Take to Receive my TWIC Card?

• TWIC cards are issued six to eight weeks after the applicant successfully completes the application process. Applicants are notified either by email or phone when the TWIC card is ready to pick up at the TWIC enrollment center where the original application was completed.

Do I Need an Appointment to Apply for a TWIC Card?

• Appointments are available for customer convenience but are not required. Applicants are welcome to walk into any TWIC enrollment center without having a previously scheduled appointment.

What Documents Are Required to Apply?

• United States citizens must have either a passport, merchant mariner document (MMD), Free and Secure Trade Card (FAST), NEXUS card, or a Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection card (SENTRI). If none of these documents are available, the applicant must have two of the following documents: drivers license, state ID card, original or certified birth certificate, voter's registration card, U.S. military ID card, Native American tribal document, social security card, U.S. military discharge papers, Department of Transportation medical card, U.S. marriage certificate, merchant mariner license, Transportation Security Administration card, or a Department of Homeland Security card.

Where do I get More Information About TWIC?

• Additional information about TWIC is available at www.tsa.gov/twic or by calling the TWIC help desk at 1-866-DHS-TWIC.