The Big Deal About TSA PreCheck and Global Entry

Have you seen the signs at airports for TSA PreCheck and wondered if the benefits outweigh the effort to qualify? And how about Global Entry? Is it worth the trouble and expense?

In a word, Yes.

Here’s what they are, what they cost, how to get them and the benefits of each.

Trusted Traveler Programs: Global Entry

What does it cost and what are the benefits?

Global Entry costs $100 for a 5 year approval and provides expedited US customs screening to international travelers when they enter the US. This does not mean that US travelers have reciprocal benefits when entering other countries.

But, when coming home from a long trip, assuming you’re not smuggling any illegal substances or have violated US Customs requirements, you simply de-plane, follow the signs marked Global Entry, locate the Passport Kiosks, follow their prompts, get your ticket and breeze through to the exit check-out while the other passengers queue up in lines that can take hours to get through.

Hours. Especially on busy days with the new world of airport TSA and Customs and Border Patrol staff reductions. At this point, you’re jet-lagged and ready to be home. I’ve never had to wait at a kiosk and the process takes all of one minute.

It’s SO worth it.

To review application requirements, click here.

Currently, Global Entry applicants, renewals or first time Global Entry applicants whose applications have already been conditionally approved may also participate in the Enrollment on Arrival Program

No appointment is needed and this option may offer the fastest path to membership approval for individuals with upcoming international travel. Information can be found on the following website: Find a Global Entry EoA Location.

Trusted Traveler Program: TSA PreCheck

With TSA PreCheck you can skip the long lines during the security screening process.

My advice: ALWAYS CHECK TO MAKE SURE TSA PRECHECK IS PRINTED ON YOUR BOARDING PASS. You can add it at check in if its missing, which, for reasons I don’t understand, it often is. No check, no entry. Make sure it’s there.

Most applicants receive online approval notification within 3-5 days but, in my recent experience it may take a little longer in our post-Covid world since people are now beginning to resume travel and many let their status expire in the last two years. The TSA advises you to apply 60 days before you’re planning to fly, just to be on the safe side.

To qualify, after you’ve filled out your application, you’ll have to pass a background check and be fingerprinted.

What disqualifies you? Security violations or related airport offenses, on-board aircraft assault, threat, intimidation or interference with flight crew, actual or threat of physical or sexual assault of any aircraft passenger…etc. Here’s the link

Pretty much covers anyone you’d not be happy flying with anyway so let’s run them through a more thorough security check. Please.

Seniors do not automatically get PreCheck. But, the TSA will allow travelers 75 and older to access expedited screening which means you can keep a light jacket and shoes on.

Several airline mileage loyalty programs and hotel rewards programs will allow you to redeem miles for the cost of TSA PreCheck status but in most cases, it’s more efficient and cost-effective to pay the fee. Dozens of credit cards will reimburse card carriers for the cost of both TSA PreCheck and Global Entry fees. However, many charge annual fees in excess of the program charges so make sure you understand all of the qualifiers before you apply.

Renewal can also be managed online. Customer support is 24/7 so if you wake up at 2am with a hankering to complete the form and get this status, no problem.

Now find that “Travel Bucket List” and start making reservations!