TSA Orientation: What to Expect on Your First Day and How to Pass

Created in 2001, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is responsible for protecting the country's transportation systems. It ensures freedom of movement by maintaining airports, highways, railroads, and more.

The TSA is an agency that forms part of the United States of Homeland Security (DHS).

There are several roles within the agency, from administrator to analyst, HR specialist to security officer. All of the people working at the TSA, of which there are around 60,000, play their part in keeping the country’s transportation network running and safe from harm.

Before successful applicants can begin their career at the TSA, they must pass an orientation. At this stage, your job offer is still provisional and depends on you passing TSA training.

The TSA Orientation College is in Glynco, Georgia, although recent years have seen candidates take their training online. The details of your orientation will be sent to you so pay close attention to the instructions.

In this article, you will find everything you need to know about the TSA orientation process. You’ll also find information about what to expect, and bring, on the day, as well as answers to frequently asked questions.

What Is the TSA Orientation Day?

The TSA orientation day process enables the agency to recruit the best and brightest candidates for what can be demanding roles. TSA roles come with a lot of responsibility, so it is crucial that prospective hires have the necessary capabilities to handle the job.

The length of the TSA orientation process can vary with each intake. In the past, it has taken place over two to four days.

During your training, you are likely to listen to lectures, take part in group discussions, and complete assessments.

On TSA training day one, you will spend time getting acclimated to the TSA Academy and learn about the training that lies ahead.

What to Expect on Your First Day of TSA Orientation 

On the first day of your TSA Officer orientation, you are likely to feel both excited and nervous. It is important to remember that you have already achieved so much to get to this point! You should be proud of your progress so far.

Understanding what is included in your first day at TSA Academy can help settle your nerves and make you feel more confident in your abilities.

Check-In and Registration

First up for the TSA Academy first day activities is check-in and registration. This will include filling out paperwork and verifying your identification and personal information.

As you are checking in, you will be introduced to the staff and facilities in the TSA Academy.

While registering, the academy personnel will explain what is expected of you during your TSA orientation day.

Introduction to TSA Policies and Procedures

If you are to work at the TSA, you will need to adhere to the agency’s missions and values. Your training will cover the TSA’s goals and beliefs, but it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with them before your orientation.

The TSA’s mission is simple:

‘Protect the nation's transportation systems to ensure freedom of movement for people and commerce.’

As one of the most important agencies in the United States, the TSA values three core qualities above all else. These are integrity, respect, and commitment.

To be successful in your orientation and proceed to a role with the TSA, you should consider how your character aligns with these values.

Tour of the Academy

When you arrive at the TSA Academy in Georgia, you will be introduced to the place that will be your home for the next few days. Before you undertake your training, you will be given a guided tour of the campus.

Your tour guide will show you the areas you will be using, such as dormitories, classrooms, and training facilities.

Some of the other key locations you will be shown are the cafeteria, fitness center, and training rooms.

By training at the TSA Academy, you will be able to immerse yourself in the experience and prepare for a role with the agency.

TSA Orientation Activities

The purpose of the TSA new hire orientation is to assess whether you have the skills and knowledge required to succeed in a role with the agency.

Once you have registered and filled out the correct federal forms, you will begin developmental sessions and activities.

At the end of your training, you will take a TSA Orientation test. This assessment is to check that you have learned the required skills and knowledge during the course.

Classroom Sessions

During your TSA training, you will attend presentations on the agency’s history, objectives, and security protocols.

The TSA was created as a response to the terrorist attack on September 11th, 2001. If you are to succeed in securing a role with the TSA, it is crucial you understand the work they do to protect America’s transportation system.

You will attend lectures and discussions, and complete tests and exercises, on topics such as:

• Detecting terrorist threats
• TSA screening policies
• Effective communication
• Checking travel documents
• Handling sensitive information
• Critical thinking

One of the key parts of TSA Academy training is the ‘A Day in the Life’ session. In this activity, a current TSA Officer will come and talk about their typical day working for the agency.

The TSA Officer will share their daily routine, how they deal with any issues, and what motivates them to help protect the country’s transportation system and its passengers. Understanding what a usual day looks like for a TSA Officer can help you visualize how your role will fit in with the agency’s missions.

Meeting Fellow Recruits

As a prospective new TSA hire, you will be joined by a group of peers in the same position.

Attending the TSA Academy can help you feel more confident, as you will interact with a community of fellow candidates. Having this shared experience with a group of others will foster a sense of camaraderie.

One of the necessary skills for a role with the TSA is teamwork. Your ability to work in a team and communicate effectively will be assessed with group exercises. 

Important Paperwork and Requirements

To enable your TSA training to get off to a smooth start, make sure you understand what to bring with you.

Before you can begin your training, you will need to complete and sign the following forms:

• Declaration for Federal Employment (OF-306)
• Employment Eligibility Verification (Form I-9)
• OGE Form 450 or OGE Form 278 (if applicable)
• Documents that can verify your citizenship and employment eligibility. These must be valid and in date

Working at the TSA can be a highly demanding job. For this reason, you will need to be in good physical health.

The TSA also has a zero-tolerance drug policy for all applicants and employees.

As part of your orientation, you are likely to undergo a medical screening to ensure you are a good match for a role in the TSA. The medical screening is a three-stage process consisting of a hearing test, drug test, and physical exam.

Before you begin your orientation, you will receive an email with all of the information you need. This will include a dress code that you must adhere to on the first day of training.

The dress code is typically business casual and consists of a white shirt, black trousers, and black closed-toe shoes.

If you do not arrive at orientation wearing the correct attire, you may be dismissed. It is crucial that you follow these instructions carefully.

What to Bring on Your First Day of TSA Orientation 

The first day of orientation is your introduction to life as a TSA employee. It is important to make a good impression by being fully prepared.

When packing your items for your academy stay, remember to include your government-issued ID, personal documents, and a notebook to write down important or useful information.

To help your first day go smoothly, make sure you plan your route in advance. Aim to arrive early to settle any pre-training nerves.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I arrive for TSA orientation?

You should arrive at least 15 minutes early to ensure you have enough time for registration.

What do I need to bring with me to the TSA Academy for orientation?

You will need to bring your government ID and relevant documentation. Be sure to check your welcome email for full details of what to bring.

Is TSA orientation paid?

The TSA orientation is paid. Payment will be made once you are hired at the end of the process.

What can I expect from the TSA's training program after orientation?

After orientation, there will be further training. This will include lectures and group discussions.

Final Thoughts

While TSA training can sound intimidating, you need to remember that you have already come so far. Your application has impressed the recruiters, and this is the final stage of the TSA hiring process. Passing the orientation will lead to what you have worked so hard for: becoming a TSA employee.

Doing well in the orientation is the key to secure a job offer. To succeed, remember to stay engaged, positive, and proactive throughout the orientation process.

The first day of TSA training is an exciting time for you. View it as your chance to show why you are a great fit for the agency. As long as you stay enthusiastic and actively listen, this can be the beginning of a thrilling career in the TSA.