Please note, updating your gender will not impact your TWIC® status
The Transportation Worker Identification Credential, also known as TWIC®, is required by the Maritime Transportation Security Act for workers who need access to secure areas of the nation’s maritime facilities and vessels. TSA conducts a security threat assessment (background check) to determine a person’s eligibility and issues the credential. U.S. citizens and immigrants in certain immigration categories may apply for the credential. Most mariners licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard also require a credential. Regarding card usage and facility access requirements, please contact the U.S. Coast Guard.
Important Notice: TSA recommends that all applicants enroll for TWIC® (including renewals) a minimum of 60 days before applicants require a valid TWIC. TSA is experiencing increased demand for TWIC, and the processing times for some applicants may exceed 45 days.
Eligibility
You may apply if you are a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, naturalized citizen or a nonimmigrant alien, asylee, or refugee who is in lawful status.
TWIC® FAQ
Exception: an employer must retrieve a TWIC® card from an alien when their work visa expires and return it to TSA. Law enforcement, TSA or U.S. Coast Guard personnel may also confiscate a TWIC if used in conjunction with a crime.
Yes, TSA is committed to promoting the freedom, dignity, and equality of all people, including LGBTQIA+. Individuals who apply for TWIC®, including persons utilizing a non-binary and gender non-conforming identity document, may self-select Male, Female, or Another Gender as their gender when applying for TWIC®.
U.S. Coast Guard policy allows workers who meet certain requirements to continue to have access to a regulated facility while waiting for their replacement card. (more…)