How TWIC Card Renewal Works In 2024 [Step-By-Step]

Since 2012, Brett Helling has built expertise in the rideshare and delivery sectors, working with major platforms like Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash.

He acquired Ridester.com in 2014, the first ridesharing marketplace, leveraging his direct experience to enhance the site. His insights at Ridester are recognized by Forbes, Vice, and CNBC.

Expanding his reach, Brett founded Gigworker.com and authored “Gigworker: Independent Work and the State of the Gig Economy“, demonstrating his comprehensive knowledge of the gig economy.

Owner, Ridester.com Updated on: February 17, 2024 Read more here

vector graphic showing a header image of a TWIC card renewal

Key Takeaways

How Long Do TWIC Cards Last?

One of the nice things about TWIC cards is that you don’t have to renew yours each year. Instead, your TWIC card is valid for five years from the initial issue date. Once your card expires, you’ll need to renew it online or at an enrollment center.

Understanding TWIC Card Renewal

TWIC abbreviates to Transport Worker Identity Card. The identification document is common among airport, hospital, and maritime transportation workers.

The United States Transportation Security Administration and the United States Coast Guard are responsible for issuing the identification card.

Workers operating ferries, ships, port customs offices, and dockside warehouses need the card to access these maritime facilities. Other TWIC holders may include:

Creating the card involves giving biometric data, such as fingerprints. To receive a TWIC, workers need to also pass a security threat assessment or background check administered by TSA officers.

Once officials register all your data, you’ll get a card ingrained with a computer chip and a magnetized bar containing biometric data. How do TWIC cards work? They’re either scanned or swiped at security checkpoints.

You need to renew them every five years after issuance as well. TWIC holders can renew their card online a year before and after its expiry. That way, you’ll retain access to secure maritime facilities.

If you don’t renew your TWIC a year after its expiry, you’ll have to submit your documents in person and register as a new enrollee.

Eligibility and Requirements for Renewal

To be eligible for a TWIC renewal you must be a:

If you’re ineligible to renew your card, you have to report to the TSA and return your TWIC by mailing it to the address on the back.

As for the renewal requirements, you’ll need to visit the TSA’s official webpage and register online for a TWIC renewal. They’ll ask you to complete a form to verify your details, too. It can take about ten minutes to finish. Some required information includes:

The form will also ask you to provide a form of identification, which can include:

If these documents aren’t at your disposal, you’ll need to provide more than one document, like your driver’s license and birth certificate. After preparing the documents, you must schedule an appointment to present these documents at your nearest facilities.

The Renewal Process: Step by Step

You can renew your TWIC through three possible routes: in-person, online, or by phone.

Keep in mind that even with the online process, you’ll still have to go in person to the facility to present your identification documents.