If you travel frequently, you have undoubtedly wondered if applying for TSA PreCheck is worthwhile to avoid regular airport security lines. Similarly, those who travel abroad may also wonder if it is worth applying for Global Entry and getting access to kiosks upon their return to the States. But which program should you apply for if you travel both domestically and internationally? Do you need to apply for both? To assist you in choosing which Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) is best for you, let’s examine the topic – “TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry.”
A Quick Overview of the Trusted Traveler Program
TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and other federally trusted traveler programs allow you to use special airport security lanes. These often result in quicker and less invasive inspections. Applying for either option includes cost and the time and effort needed to finish the necessary interviews. However, some credit cards or frequent flyer programs will help you quickly enroll for the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck program. Applying might be worthwhile even if you only travel sometimes, mainly if you can use your credit card to get reimbursed.
What is TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck is part of a Trusted Traveler Program managed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) of the United States. This program allows passengers to enjoy a smoother and quicker screening process. Upon enrolling, you will undergo risk assessments that ensure you are a trusted traveler. Successfully passing the test will lead to the issue of a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that you can use while making flight reservations. But before this, you must complete an online application process and pass the in-person background check.
When you update your flight reservation with the received number, you will get the TSA PreCheck stamp of approval on it. This means you can enter the expedited airport security line on the day of departure. Just go and stand in the PreCheck queue to pass the screening process. And yes, the officials will not ask you to take off your shoes or jacket to pass the test. Not only that but the laptop and TSA-approved liquids can also stay packed in your carry-ons during the whole procedure.
Note – Remember that TSA PreCheck does not supersede airport security’s jurisdiction. If you’re wondering how early to leave for the airport, keep in mind that you may still be randomly selected for standard airport security screening. Therefore, always stay prepared and leave early for the airport, as you usually do.
Benefits of Enrolling for PreCheck
The expedited airport security lines are the main advantage of TSA PreCheck for the majority of travelers. However, this program offers many other benefits as well. However, having a specific security line is not the only benefit. You get to keep your shoes on and your bags packed while going through the screening process. Just a single lane eradicates the hassle you faced earlier with the standard screening process. So, it’s worth taking some time and applying for the TSA PreCheck and being one of the trusted travelers.
Availability of TSA PreCheck
Ninety airlines and more than 200 domestic airports provide TSA PreCheck facilities for passengers. You can head to the official website and look for TSA PreCheck® Airports and Airlines to check if your preferred airline or nearby airport offers the same service.
Your Eligibility for Enrollment
There is nothing fancy required to be a part of this program. The authorities have kept the eligibility criteria very simple. To apply for TSA PreCheck, you either have to be a citizen or a lawful permanent resident of the United States. That’s it! Nothing much is needed other than completing the application process and scheduling an in-person meeting.
The Joining Process for TSA PreCheck
The joining process is even more straightforward; it requires only two easy steps for you to complete the application process.
- Enter your essential personal information in the online application. You will be prompted via the online application for information such as your address and birthdate. It should take roughly five minutes to complete this stage.
- Make a 10-minute appointment at a TSA PreCheck enrollment center. During the in-person meeting, the officials will take your picture and fingerprints for biometric data collection, confirm your identity, do a background check, and take the payment.
Upon successful completion, you will receive a Known Traveler Knumver. To have “TSA PreCheck” appear on your boarding pass and gain access to the reserved lines, add this number to your airline tickets while making a reservation. You can also add this number to your profile on certain airlines, like Southwest, so that it will be applied automatically to your tickets.
Also Read: Does JFK Airport have a TSA Precheck?
The Fee for Enrolling
The enrollment period with TSA PreCheck is valid for five years. It works with two enrollment partners: 11 Telos and Idemis. Telos charges around $85, while Idemia charges $78 for first-time enrollment. Plus, when you want to renew the membership with either provider, it will cost you $70. In such a situation, having a credit card can prove very useful. Statement credit may cover the application fees for both programs if you hold a credit card with premium travel privileges.
What is Global Entry?
Global Entry is another U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program. This membership allows pre-approval for some passengers who qualify as low-risk travelers entering the country with expedited clearance. At certain airports, members use the Global Entry processing technology to enter the United States.
When flying back to the United States, travelers with a Global Entry membership are permitted to use the kiosk machine specially designed for this program. With this, they easily avoid filling out tedious customs paperwork and eliminate the need for an in-person interview. Travelers can make their customs declaration using the kiosk only, which uses fingerprint verification to check their identity.
This is worth noting that the TSA PreCheck membership is automatically included with the Global Entry program. So, whether you are returning to the United States from a trip overseas or flying domestically, travelers who have Global Entry can also benefit from a quicker screening process.
Benefits of Enrolling for Global Entry
After enrolling for the Global Entry, the main benefit you will be getting is the opportunity to use faster customer procedures upon returning home to the United States. This program is the best for travelers who frequently travel abroad and want to shorten their security screening process. Moreover, completing the Global Entry application process grants you access to two trusted traveler programs rather than just one. Yes, you read that right. This program incorporates TSA PreCheck as well!
Does Global Entry Offer TSA PreCheck?
So, if you are wondering whether you’ll be getting PreCheck with Global Entry, the answer is YES! You don’t have to enroll in both programs. Passengers with Global Entry permits are, therefore, allowed to use special PreCheck lanes.
You get reimbursed for both the program fees with many credit cards that cover them. And since the cost is eliminated here, you might as well choose Global Entry because it comes with TSA PreCheck benefits. However, if you are paying the fee out of your pocket, you may be forced to pick between the two.
Eligibility for Global Entry & Application Process
Certain foreign nationals and lawful permanent residents of the United States are eligible for the Global Entry application. Similar to TSA PreCheck, the application process includes filling out an online form, paying a fee, and providing biometric data in person for background checks.
In contrast to PreCheck, the in-person interview round takes place mostly at airports, implying fewer locations and appointments. Once authorized, you will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) immediately and a plastic Global Entry ID card a few days later.
The Joining Fee
The Global Entry will cost you $100 annually for the first five years after enrollment. There are many statement credit cards that cover the application fee for this program. Some of them include Capital One and Chase.
Side by Side Comparison: TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry
Compared to Global Entry, TSA PreCheck is a little less expensive and simpler to obtain. On the other hand, Global Entry provides more extensive advantages for both domestic and foreign travel to the United States. Both provide a more seamless airport experience and quicker security checks.
| Category | TSA PreCheck | Global Entry |
| Benefits | Faster airport security checks at more than 200 major airports in the United States. Keep your shoes and a belt on throughout the screening process. Keep your laptops and liquids in your bag. | Comprises faster customs processing for entering the United States. Includes TSA PreCheck as well. Reduce wait times by using computerized kiosks. Eliminate paperwork at the door, and have some credit cards cover application expenses. |
| Cost | $78 for five years, with a renewal fee of $70. | 100$ for the first five years of enrollment. |
| Application Process | The application process, background checks, and interviews are conducted at more than 500 enrollment centers. | About 116 enrolment centers conduct applications, background checks, and interviews for the applicants. |
| Credit Cards Covering Application Fees | Yes | Yes |
What’s the Best Program for You?
Typically, TSA PreCheck is best for domestic travel, whereas Global Entry makes more sense for overseas travel. If you are already a member of the latter, you need not acquire PreCheck because it is already included. Thus, it is obvious to get a Global Entry if you already have a passport and can pay the application fee.
However, as TSA PreCheck processing takes a lot less time than Global Entry, it can be simpler to obtain if you primarily travel within domestic boundaries. If you travel abroad four or more times a year, TSA itself advises you to sign up for Global Entry.
Remember that Global Entry merely allows you to enter the United States more quickly. Therefore, there is no advantage to traveling to other countries, like from Colombia to Peru or France to Nigeria.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you often travel to international cities, at least four times a year, then consider applying for the Global Entry Program. Otherwise, go for the TSA PreCheck application,
The only downside to Global Entry is that the application process is quite lengthy and there are fewer enrollment centers.
Yes. Global Entry costs $100 to $120 for five years. It is costlier than the TSA PreCheck application fee. However, there are statement credit cards that can cover the cost for you.
No. If you have to get Global Entry separately. It also includes the benefits of TSA PreCheck.
The officials grant a Known Traveler Number to most candidates in 3-4 working days. However, it can take longer than that in special cases.
The staff approves about 80% of the applications within two weeks. Whereas, some applications can take longer than that, up to a year as well.
It can be difficult as there are a high number of travelers applying for it, and the limited number of enrollment centers can delay the process.
Yes. Travelers with Global Entry tend to skip customs formalities while entering the United States.
Those who provide false information in the application process, have criminal records, are under investigation, have violated customs or immigration laws, and are inadmissible to the U.S. cannot get Global Entry.
Yes. When you apply for Amex Platinum, it covers the application fees for the Global Entry.
Countries like Argentina, Bahrain, Brazil, Colombia, Croatia, Germany, India, New Zealand, etc., accept Global Entry.
Yes. TSA PreCheck is available internationally when you fly from the United States to a foreign city.
The officials will go back and check your 10 – 20 years of previous records to complete your background check.
You cannot upgrade your TSA PreCheck membership to Global Entry. You will have to complete the application process separately for the latter.
The PreCheck officials will check your previous records from several years ago. If any felonies or criminal offenses show up, they’ll disqualify you from the process right away.