TSA Pre-Check vs. Global Entry - Which is right for me?

So, you’re ready to book your next trip – great! However, as excited as you are to reach your destination, chances are you are much less excited about long airport security lines, shuffling documents, and, if traveling internationally, the stress of re-entering the U.S. on your way home. These sentiments are common amongst travelers and avoiding these things is a great reason to look into Trusted Traveler programs provided by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). These programs offer benefits that will help you breeze through security and customs, making your travel experience quicker and easier.

In this post we will explore the two most popular DHS Trusted Traveler programs - TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry - and help you decide which program is best for you.

Let’s start with the basics: Eligibility and Cost of TSA Pre-Check vs. Global Entry

Luckily, both TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry have fairly basic eligibility requirements and are very affordable. To qualify for TSA Pre-Check, you must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. lawful permanent resident. The Global Entry program has a wider range of eligibility and is open to U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, Mexican nationals, and select foreign nationals including citizens of Argentina, the United Kingdom, South Korea, and more.

Cost-wise, both programs are affordable. TSA Pre-Check requires a $78 new enrollment fee, covering 5 years of membership. A 5-year renewal costs $70. Global Entry is $100 for a 5-year membership. Additionally, a number of credit cards and frequent flyer programs will cover the cost of Trusted Traveler programs. TSA has compiled a list of cards and programs that provide this service.

Benefits of TSA Pre-Check vs. Global Entry

Both TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry will allow you to breeze through security, however there are added benefits to each program that will help you decide which may be right for you.

Application process and required documents for TSA Pre-Check & Global Entry

One of the biggest components to consider when deciding between the TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry programs is the application process. Simply put, applying for and acquiring a TSA Pre-Check membership usually takes about 2-3 weeks, while doing the same for a Global Entry membership can take 4-6 months. Here’s what you need to know to prepare yourself for the application process:

TSA Pre-Check:

• Fill out an online application – usually takes 5 minutes or less

• Schedule an in-person enrollment appointment at one of 400+ enrollment centers

• At your enrollment appointment, provide fingerprints, show your citizenship/identity documents, and pay your enrollment fee

• Required documents include a valid U.S. government-issued photo ID and proof of citizenship (passport only OR driver’s license and birth certificate)

Global Entry:

• Fill out an online application and wait for your conditional approval

• Once your application is conditionally approved, an interview must be completed in one of two ways:

  • 1) Enrollment on Arrival – this option is recommended for travelers whose Global Entry applications have been conditionally approved AND who will be flying internationally into the U.S. within the next 6 months. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection provides more information on this option.

  • 2) Schedule an interview at an Enrollment Center – this option is recommended for travelers whose Global Entry applications have been conditionally approved AND who will NOT be flying internationally into the U.S. within the next 6 months. However, note that Enrollment Center locations are limited and appointment availability can be weeks, or even months, out.

• Required documents include a valid passport OR a U.S. I-551 Lawful Permanent Resident Card and documents proving evidence of residency (i.e. utility bill, rental statement, etc.)

In conclusion, which program is right for you?

The two biggest factors to consider when deciding between membership in the TSA Pre-Check or Global Entry programs are, 1) are you a domestic or international traveler, and, 2) how much time do you have to dedicate to the application process? Overall, we recommend the Global Entry program, as it provides all of the expedited security benefits included in the TSA Pre-Check program (NOTE: children CANNOT accompany a parent/guardian with Global Entry, they must have their own membership). However, this program does require some planning and the application process is a time commitment. If you only plan on traveling domestically, or if you travel internationally less than a couple times a year, the TSA Pre-Check program is a great option that requires much less of a time commitment to sign up for.

Have additional questions? Let one of our travel experts help you out!