What Is a TWIC Card and How Do You Get One?

Last Updated November 14, 2024

The vast number of requirements for truck drivers and carriers can feel overwhelming. But if your trucking company intends to conduct maritime-related business, there’s one requirement that you and your drivers cannot forget to apply for—a TWIC card.

TWIC stands for Transportation Worker Identification Credential. A TWIC card is necessary for a couple different types of truckers, but you won’t receive your card immediately after you apply. Therefore, it’s important to complete the application as soon as possible, before you’ve already found and scheduled business that might require having the card to complete the haul.

Continue reading a full breakdown of TWIC cards, including answers to commonly asked questions such as:

• What Is a TWIC Card?
• What Is it Used for?
• Who Needs a TWIC Card?
• What’s Required to Obtain One?
• How Do You Apply for a TWIC Card?
• How Long Does It Take to Receive Your TWIC Card?
• How Much Does a TWIC Card Cost?

What Is a TWIC Card and What Is it Used for?

A TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) badge is a federal ID card issued by the TSA used for granting access to transportation workers who need access to secure maritime locations. Since the Maritime Transportation Security Act introduced new regulations in 2002, the credential has been necessary for all workers needing access to maritime vessels and facilities.

The TSA issues TWIC cards to not just transportation workers, but also members of the US Coast Guard and USCG employees. For any business at ports or related areas, a trucker needs to qualify for a TWIC card.

Who Needs a TWIC Card?

Truckers who need access to secure maritime facilities and vessels must have a TWIC card. For a trucking company looking to expand by hauling loads to exclusive, secure maritime locations, employing drivers with a TWIC badge is necessary. A driver of any level, new or experienced, can apply. And while a trucker might have seen their share of miles inland, it can help to diversify routes and experience by gaining access to secure maritime facilities and vessels.

Even brand-new truck drivers can benefit from getting a TWIC card, as it allows them to start expanding their qualifications from the get-go. The more areas new drivers are qualified to haul loads, the more experience they can get and the more routes they can drive to, such as maritime facilities and vessels.

TWIC Card Requirements

In order for truckers to get a TWIC card, you need to be a lawful, permanent U.S. resident and be able to present or do the following (according to UScourts.gov):

• Prove U.S. citizenship via a valid passport or similar document.
• Prove U.S. citizenship via two of the following: driver’s license, birth certificate, certificate of citizenship, certificate of naturalization, consular report of birth, or citizen identification card.
• For those born outside of the U.S., an additional document will be required, such as a copy of your social security card.
• Pay a non-refundable fee that activates the card for five years.

Benefits of Having a TWIC Card

Having a TWIC card allows you to haul loads into ports, boats, and associated areas that not all truckers can access. It also allows you to add hazmat endorsement to your resume, which not only improves your reputation as a driver but can lead to added employment opportunities and increase your profit.

Truckers without a TWIC card need to be escorted by authorized workers, adding time and effort to the logistics of the transportation process. A trucker having this card can save a trucking business owner time and money, which they’ll greatly appreciate.

As a bonus, the TWIC card meets TSA standards for valid identification, which means you can use it to board a plane!

How to Get a TWIC Card

Getting a TWIC card involves a relatively straightforward, three-step process. Note that once you’ve completed the application process, you will have to wait 30 to 45 days before you receive your card after you finish the application process.

1.   Fill Out an Application

The first step to obtaining a TWIC card is to fill out the online application. If you cannot fill out the online form or need to apply in person, you can complete the process at a TWIC application center.

2.   Schedule an Appointment

You can schedule an appointment online by filling out a brief form. Alternatively, you can call (855) 347-8371 between 8 AM to 10 PM eastern time. Walk-ins are possible, but as appointments take priority, it’s advisable to book ahead of time.

3.   Visit a TWIC Enrollment Center

You’ll need to bring documentation that proves your identity and citizenship status. One example of proper documentation would be an unexpired US passport. However, the TSA also lists accepted alternative documentation.

The TWIC card requires a non-refundable fee that covers five years of certification. Applicants can pay with a credit card, money order, company check, certified check, or cashier’s check.

During the visit, applicants will provide fingerprints and take a photo for future verification. TSA will print the picture on the card, and the fingerprints encrypted.

If the application is successful, the TSA will mail the card to the applicant’s home address. However, if a home address isn’t preferred, the applicants may choose to pick up the card at the application center. In addition, truckers can check their application status online.

Where Can I Get a TWIC card?

A TWIC card can be obtained at one of any the numerous TWIC enrollment centers nationwide. Unless you reside in an extremely rural area, there will likely be a TWIC enrollment center within a short drive of your home.

To easily locate the nearest TWIC application center, you can visit the TSA’s TWIC enrollment center locator and type in your zip code.

How Long Does It Take to Get a TWIC Card?

It takes 30-45 days to get a TWIC card once applicants complete the application process. It can take longer if errors or disqualifying factors need to be corrected. The TSA recommends applying 12 weeks in advance to assure truckers get their card when they need them.

The TSA will notify applicants if they are successful with their TWIC card application. Applicants will also receive a notification when the TSA sends their card. Messages are sent by mail, phone, or email, depending on preferences. Once notified, an applicant can expect their card delivered within ten days.

After notification, applicants have 60 days to report if a card has not arrived. Trucks who need to report non-receipt should visit the TSA Enrollment website or call (855) 347-8371 weekdays from 8 AM to 10 PM Eastern time.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a TWIC Card?

The price of a TWIC card is $125.25 for new applications. There is also a reduced new applicant rate available for $93.00. Applicants are eligible for the reduced rate if they hold a valid Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) or a Free and Secure Trade (FAST) card. If new applicants want to take advantage of the offer, they must present their HME or FAST card when they apply.

The expiration date for a TWIC card is five years. However, when an applicant has a reduced rate, the expiration depends on the valid dates of their HME or FAST card.

For returning applicants, replacement cards cost $60.

How to Renew Your TWIC Card

Renewing your TWIC card follows the same process as the original application. Truckers need to fill out the same application form and book an appointment for each TWIC card renewal.

How Much Does It Cost to Renew Your TWIC Card?

Renewing your TWIC card in-person costs $125.25 while renewing your TWIC card online costs $117.25.

Once a trucker receives their new card, they need to return or destroy the expired card.

TWIC Canceled Card List

The TWIC Canceled Card List is a security measure. Any TWIC cards canceled while in a cardholder’s possession are placed on the list. For example, if a trucker received their card, but a sudden change means they no longer qualify, the TSA adds the card to the list. Additionally, it includes cards reported as lost or stolen.

Neither the TSA nor cardholders can remove a card once added to the list. Notably, the TSA doesn’t include expired cards on the TWIC Canceled Card List.

While the TSA won’t chase down canceled cards, cardholders should return them. However, as TWIC cards are government property, employers cannot confiscate expired cards. One exception is if an employer retrieves a TWIC card from an employee with an expired work visa to return the card to the TSA.

The Cancelled Card List is separate from the Visual Canceled Card List. The Canceled Card List includes Federal Agency Smart Credential Numbers (FASC-Ns). At the same time, the Visual Canceled Card List provides the Credential Identification Numbers (CINs) of canceled cards. As CINs appear printed on TWIC cards, they offer security officials a means of visually inspecting cards.

TWIC NexGen

The TWIC NexGen or Next Generation is a TWIC card with updated technology. The TSA began issuing the new cards on July 10, 2018, to prevent counterfeiting and misuse. As a result, new trucking company owners can expect to employ more truckers with the new cards than the standard TWIC card.

The NexGen does not cost more than the previous version. For truckers with the older TWIC badge, they don’t need to replace their card until it expires. When renewing their card, truckers will receive the TWIC NexGen.

While truckers can change out their previous version for the NexGen card at any time, it comes at a cost. Like replacing a lost card or renewing an application, truckers wanting the NexGen will need to pay $60.

The updated card doesn’t change the application process. The updated features include holographic laminate, two biometric fingerprint templates, and other additions for improved security.

In-Summary: What Is a TWIC Card and How Do You Get One?

For truckers and trucking business owners loading and driving in maritime locales, a TWIC card is a wise, and often required investment. Whether you’re a new trucker, a driver with years of experience, or a trucking business owner, expanding your qualifications by obtaining a TWIC card can lead to more opportunities. And if you’re expected to operate within secure maritime locations, you need to prioritize obtaining a TWIC badge to ensure access to the property or location.

TWIC Card FAQs

What does TWIC stand for?

TWIC stands for Transportation Worker Identification Credential.

What is a TWIC card used for?

A TWIC card is used by workers that need access to maritime facilities and vessels. Truckers that do pick-ups and drop-offs at ports need TWIC cards to access the premises.

Who issues a TWIC card?

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Department of Homeland Security work in conjunction to securely issue TWIC cards to truckers and others within the transportation industry who need access to secure maritime locations.

How long is a TWIC card good for?

A TWIC card is typically good for five years, but if you get a TWIC card at a reduced rate, the expiration date will depend on the expiration dates of your HME or FAST card.

Is TWIC a security clearance?

A TWIC card grants security clearance for secure maritime facilities or vessels, but not other types of protected government-related facilities.

How hard is it to get a TWIC card?

Getting a TWIC card is relatively simple. The process involves three steps: filling out an application, scheduling an appointment, and visiting a TWIC application center. You will need to bring documentation to the application center that proves your identity and citizenship, such as a passport. Then, you will be fingerprinted and have your photo taken for future identification. If approved, you will then likely wait 30-45 days before receiving your TWIC badge in the email.

How can I find the nearest TWIC enrollment center near me?

You can find the nearest TWIC enrollment center by utilizing the TSAs enrollment center locator tool. Simply type in your zip code and a list of the nearest enrollment centers will be displayed.