The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has begun the initial enrollment for the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) for the ports of Newport News VA, Panama City FL, San Diego CA, Gulfport MS, Key West FL, Traverse City MI, and Bangor ME, according to information published in the Federal Register.
TWIC enrollment begins in Newport News and Panama City March 12, 2008; San Diego March 13, 2008; Gulfport and Key West March 19, 2008; Traverse City March 20, 2008; and Bangor March 26, 2008.
The TSA program requires a background check for anyone who has unescorted access to secure areas of port facilities and vessels. The TWIC credential is valid for five years and requires a fee of $132.50. However, workers with current, comparable background checks, including a hazardous materials endorsement on a commercial driver license, Merchant Mariners document, or Free and Secure Trade (FAST) credential, will pay a discounted fee of $105.25.
Other ports conducting the program announced earlier can be found online at the TSA Web site tsagov.