It is undeniable that serving your country comes with a long list of sacrifices, but it also comes with some unknown benefits. Take, for example, free TSA Precheck status.

As the nation’s military prepares to embark on holiday travel—unless you’re deployed (again)—U.S. service members and DoD civilians should note they’re eligible for a program that allows them to skip some of the longest lines when traveling.

Veterans, family members and military retirees are unfortunately ineligible for this program.

But for anyone still wearing a uniform, here's how you can cash in on it:

Service members have a 10-digit DoD ID. If you don’t know it, don’t panic; take a peek on the back of your military ID. When buying a plane ticket, you should input it online. This works for both official and personal travel, like leave.

When you make flight arrangements online, there’s a box for the Known Traveler Number (KTN). That’s where you should enter your DoD ID number.

This benefit will allow you to bypass all the hustle and bustle. You won’t have to remove your shoes, empty a bag, or fiddle with putting your belt back on quickly.

Any service member of any component and students enrolled at the service academies are automatically registered for this benefit, which starts at $85, but now you know how to take advantage of it — happy and safe traveling.

DoD civilians can opt in by clicking here.

Want to get more connected to the great stories and resources Connecting Vets has to offer? Click here and sign up for our weekly newsletter.