Can a TWIC be issued with a criminal record?

It is possible to be issued a TWIC card depending on the circumstances of the conviction. According to the TSA, an individual who was “convicted of certain crimes will be ineligible for a TWIC.”

“Permanent Disqualifying Offenses” means conviction of certain felonies is an automatic disqualifier regardless of when it happened and there is no eligibility for a waiver. Such offenses include espionage, sedition, treason, federal terrorism, unlawful possession and transportation of hazardous materials or explosives, murder and certain RICO violations.

“Interim Disqualifying Offenses” allow the applicant to apply for a waiver. They include certain felonies if the person was convicted, pled guilty or no contest, found not guilty by reason of insanity within seven years of the TWIC application or if the person was released from prison within five years of the application. These offenses include firearms violations, extortion, bribery, fraud, smuggling and robbery.

For a complete list of disqualifying offenses, visit the TSA website here.