What is TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck is a trusted traveler program that gives you access to expedited airport security lines within the United States. It is designed for domestic travel within the U.S.A.
With TSA PreCheck, you typically:
- Keep your shoes on
- Leave laptops in your bag
- Keep belts and light jackets on
- Move through shorter security lines
What Is Global Entry?
Global Entry is a program run by U.S. Customs and Border Protection that helps travelers re-enter the United States faster after international trips. Instead of waiting in long customs lines, approved travelers can use designated kiosks or expedited entry lanes. Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck so if you’re approved for Global Entry, you automatically receive TSA PreCheck benefits as well.
Benefits
- Faster airport security
- Shorter lines
- Less hassle removing items
- Available at most major U.S. airports
- Faster customs processing when returning to the U.S. (Global Entry)
- Saves significant time before and after flights
Cost
TSA PreCheck costs around $78–$85 while Global Entry costs $120. Both are valid for 5 years. Some travel credit cards reimburse the application fee as a card benefit. Some cards that offer this benefit include:
- Chase Sapphire Reserve
- Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
- The Platinum Card® from American Express
How to Get TSA PreCheck or Global Entry
TSA PreCheck
- Complete an online application and pay the application fee
- Schedule an in-person appointment
- Provide identification and fingerprints
- Wait for approval
Global Entry
- Complete an online application and pay the application fee
- Wait for conditional approval
- Schedule an interview with Customs and Border Protection
- Complete fingerprinting and verification
Once approved, you will be issued a Known Traveler Number (KTN). When booking a flight, you will add this KTN to your flight reservation. You will see “TSA Pre” printed on your boarding pass. You can also add your KTN to a flight you already booked.
In conclusion, when deciding which you should choose, here is the simple answer:
- Mainly domestic travel → TSA PreCheck
- International travel even once or twice a year → Global Entry
