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 Tampa FL, Cincinnati OH, Richmond CA, and South Louisiana LA, according to information published in the Federal Register February 15.
TWIC enrollment begins in Tampa February 21 and in Cincinnati, Richmond, and South Louisiana February 22.
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 at the TSA Web site.