What is redress number?

A Redress Number is a unique code issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to individuals who have experienced difficulties during air travel due to being misidentified as someone on a watch list.

Here's some key information:

• Purpose: The primary purpose of a Redress Number is to help alleviate issues with misidentification. It's used to differentiate you from individuals with similar names who may be on government watch lists (like the No Fly List).

• Who needs one?: People who consistently experience delays or extra screening at airports, or are repeatedly flagged as potential matches to individuals on watch lists, might benefit from obtaining a Redress Number.

• How to obtain one: You can apply for a Redress Number through the DHS Traveler Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP).

• Benefits: A Redress Number allows you to provide this code when booking flights and during check-in. This helps the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and airlines accurately verify your identity and hopefully reduce instances of misidentification.

• Limitations: It's important to note that a Redress Number doesn't guarantee seamless travel every time, but it significantly increases the chances of avoiding delays caused by watch list matching errors.