Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck: Understanding the Differences and Benefits

You know the feeling: you get to the airport, and you are running behind schedule, and then you see the line at security, and anxiety sets in. Will I make my flight? How long will it take? Which line is the fastest? Do I have holes in my socks?  Well…maybe you don’t worry about holes in your socks. Do you worry about your bare feet on dirty airport floors?

If only you had TSA PreCheck, you would walk with those smug people breezing past TSA. Why have you waited? Now, picture that same fast line going through customs after a long international flight.  

What have you been doing?

What is Global Entry?

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers arriving in the United States. Members enter the country through automatic kiosks at select airports instead of going through traditional customs lines.

Benefits of Global Entry:

  • Expedited customs clearance when entering the U.S.
  • Access to dedicated Global Entry kiosks at major U.S. airports
  • Includes TSA PreCheck benefits for domestic flights
  • Faster re-entry from international travel
  • Reduced wait times at customs and immigration

What Global Entry Does NOT Provide:

  • Does not guarantee expedited entry into foreign countries (though some offer reciprocal benefits)
  • Does not exempt travelers from additional security screenings if flagged
  • Does not apply to land or sea border crossings (though NEXUS or SENTRI might be better options for Canada or Mexico)

Global Entry: Trusted Traveler Program: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry

 

What is TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck is a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) program that allows pre-approved travelers to use a dedicated security screening lane at U.S. airports, making the airport experience faster and more convenient.

Benefits of TSA PreCheck:

  • Expedited security screening at over 200 U.S. airports
  • Shorter security lines
  • No need to remove shoes, laptops, belts, or light jackets
  • Available for domestic and some international flights departing from U.S. airports

What TSA PreCheck Does NOT Provide:

  • Does not offer expedited customs clearance when returning from international destinations
  • Only applies to participating airlines and U.S. airports
  • Does not guarantee faster security every time (some airports may still require random checks)

TSA PreCheck: https://www.tsa.gov/precheck

 

 

How to Apply for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck

 

Program Application Process Cost Processing Time Validity
Global Entry Apply online via the CBP Trusted Traveler Programs website, complete an in-person interview at an enrollment center $100 4-6 months (varies) 5 years
TSA PreCheck Apply online via the TSA website, complete an in-person background check and fingerprinting $78-$85 3-5 weeks 5 years

Best Way to Obtain These Credentials:

  1. Decide which program is best for you – If you travel internationally, Global Entry is the better option as it includes TSA PreCheck. If you primarily travel domestically, TSA PreCheck alone may suffice.
  2. Apply online through the CBP Trusted Traveler Programs website for Global Entry or the TSA website for TSA PreCheck.
  3. Schedule an in-person appointment for fingerprinting, a background check, and an interview. Global Entry interviews are typically done at airports or enrollment centers, whereas TSA PreCheck appointments are held at designated application centers.
  4. Wait for approval – TSA PreCheck typically takes a few weeks, whereas Global Entry can take several months due to background checks and interview wait times.

Which Should You Get?

  • If you travel internationally, get Global Entry because it includes TSA PreCheck.
  • If you only travel domestically, TSA PreCheck is enough.
  • Many credit cards (such as Chase Sapphire Reserve or Amex Platinum) offer reimbursement for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees.

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How Do I Use These Global Entry and TSA PreCheck

Add Your Known Traveler Number (KTN) to Every Flight

Once approved for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, you’ll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN). Make sure to:

  • Add it to your frequent flyer accounts with airlines so it’s automatically applied.
  • Enter it every time you book a ticket to ensure you get PreCheck benefits.
  • If it’s missing on a boarding pass, ask the airline agent to reissue it.

Use the Fast Track for Maximum Benefit

  • Global Entry: Always look for Global Entry kiosks upon arrival in the U.S. to bypass long customs lines. Some airports now use facial recognition, making the process even faster.
  • TSA PreCheck: Look for dedicated TSA PreCheck security lanes when flying out of U.S. airports. You’ll avoid taking off shoes, belts, and jackets, which speeds up security.

Pro Tip: Some smaller airports may not have TSA PreCheck lanes—if that’s the case, you’ll have to go through standard security. However, you will still be given PreCheck benefits.

Leverage Credit Card Reimbursements

Many premium travel credit cards cover the cost of Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four to five years. Some of the top options include:

  • Chase Sapphire Reserve
  • The Platinum Card® from American Express
  • Capital One Venture X
  • Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard

If you have one of these cards, use it to pay for the application fee, and you’ll get an automatic statement credit.

Extra Travel Tips to Save Time

Book Flights at Off-Peak Times – Even with expedited security, morning rush hours at airports can slow you down.

Use Mobile Passport as a Backup – If Global Entry kiosks are down, the Mobile Passport app (free) can help speed up customs.

Choose Airports with Global Entry Enrollment on Arrival – Some international airports allow you to complete your Global Entry interview when returning from a trip, skipping the long appointment wait times.

Stay Ahead of Expiration Dates

  • Both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are valid for 5 years.
  • Renew at least 6 months in advance to avoid gaps in benefits.

Global Entry renewals sometimes don’t require another interview—but plan ahead in case

Consider CLEAR for an Even Faster Experience

  • CLEAR ($189/year, often discounted through credit cards) is a separate service that uses biometric scans to let you skip the ID check at TSA security.
  • It works in addition to TSA PreCheck for the fastest security process.
  • Available at major U.S. airports and stadiums.

Pro Tip.     

Best Combo: Global Entry + TSA PreCheck + CLEAR = The fastest airport experience possible.

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