No TSA Precheck line at airport...but eligible. Now what?

[Autum1031]

I'm flying out of a small airport that usually does not have a dedicated line for TSA Precheck. (Only when they are really busy). I'm eligible. If I have to use the regular line, do I also have to remove shoes, belt, laptop, etc despite my TSA Precheck status? Or can I skip all of that?

I don't mind waiting in a (very small) line. Would just like to avoid the hassle of removing everything for security.

[revrandy]

I encountered the same thing recently. When they checked my ID they handed me a card which allowed me to bypass most of the inane rules and pretend it was like a precheck lane. No strip-search machine with my hands in the air like a common criminal, belt and shoes could stay on. The only thing that differed was my laptop had to come out of its case.

[porterhouse]

The other stuff is definitely an annoyance if the PreCheck lane is closed, but the most important thing for me is to avoid the scanner. I know doctors who refuse them and opt for a pat down.