All You Need To Know About TWIC Card In Trucking

A huge amount of United States export and import goods arrive and departure the country over the maritime ports.

The truck driving industry plays a big part in the process.

Trucks are the only vehicles responsible for delivering those goods in and out of the country.

In spite of their status, entry to those ports is not easy for truckers, and they need to pass strict security measures before entering.

What is a TWIC Card?

TWIC stands for Transportation Worker Identification Credential.

This national ID card is obligatory by the Maritime Transportation Security Act for all workforces who needs entry to secure areas of the country’s ports, vessels, and maritime areas.

The TSA security orders each truck driver to own this card if they wish to continue with their freight distribution.

So, TWIC card allows truck drivers to transport freight to ports, government ports or government maritime facilities.

TWIC Card in Trucking

TWIC CARD REQUIREMENTS

The primary qualifications that each truck driver needs to possess before applying for TWIC card are:

Resident of the United States
Lawful Permanent Resident
Non-Immigrant Alien

Steps to get a Twic Card

The process of getting a TWIC card is considered a long process.

It is estimated that takes between 6-8 weeks.

First, the driver needs to complete the online application or start the entire process in person at an application center.

At the TWIC application center, the applicant needs to provide the required documentation, and take a facial photo and fingerprints.

Then the driver will be asked to pay a non-refundable fee.

TSA usually provides a response within 30-45 days of getting the information.

If there were some difficulties during the enrollment, the response can take longer.

Truck drivers can always check their status online.

The Cost of twic card

The application fee for a new TWIC card is $125.25.

The new applicant’s reduced rate is $105.25 and the cost of a replacement card is $60.

The reduced fee applies to those drivers that have also a Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) or a Free and Secure Trade (FAST) card.

The TWIC card is valid for 5 years.

For TWIC card renewal, the applicant must go through the whole process again.

Trucking Maritime Facility TWIC card

Conclusion

The TWIC card is considered a huge asset for truck drivers and it can expand their job opportunities.