If you’re someone who flies often or simply dislikes waiting in long security lines, signing up for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck can be a real game changer. Earlier this year, I got my Global Entry card, and Crystal signed up for TSA PreCheck. But what’s the difference between these two programs?
TSA PreCheck: The Basics
TSA PreCheck is a program that allows passengers to enjoy expedited screening at airport security checkpoints. This means you can keep your shoes, light outerwear, and belt on, and your laptop and compliant liquids can stay in your carry-on bag. TSA PreCheck lines are typically much shorter than the regular ones.
I recently experienced this firsthand when I was running late for my flight and got stuck in LA traffic. Thankfully, the TSA PreCheck line had only five people ahead of me, while the regular line had at least fifty. It saved me a lot of time!
The cost for TSA PreCheck is $85, and you can apply online here.
Global Entry: The Premium Option
Global Entry gives you all the benefits of TSA PreCheck, plus expedited screening at U.S. Customs. This is a major time-saver, especially for those returning from international trips. I used to dread the long lines at Customs, often spending 45 minutes to an hour waiting. But on a recent trip from Hong Kong, I used the Global Entry kiosk and breezed through in under ten minutes! There were no lines, and I was the only one at the kiosk.
Global Entry costs $100, and you can apply online here. It’s a small price to pay when you consider how much time you save at both security and customs.
Which One Should You Choose?
Now that we know the differences, which program is best for you? If you travel internationally, we recommend opting for Global Entry. For just $15 more than TSA PreCheck, you get all the TSA PreCheck benefits and the ability to skip those lengthy customs lines. And remember, the Global Entry card is valid for five years, so even if you don’t plan on international travel this year, you might in the near future.
Apply for Free with Your Credit Card
Some credit card companies offer reimbursement for the cost of Global Entry or TSA PreCheck as a statement credit. Crystal and I both took advantage of this benefit, meaning we didn’t have to pay anything out-of-pocket for our applications. When you use your credit card to pay for the application, the statement credit will be automatically applied—no need to call your credit card company.
Step-By-Step Process: How to Apply
Here’s how to get started:
- Check for Card Benefits: First, see if your credit card offers a statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.
- Submit Your Application: Head online and fill out the application form for your chosen program.
- Wait for Approval: After submitting, you’ll receive an email with approval details. If approved, you’ll be asked to schedule an in-person interview at your nearest airport.
- Interview: Show up to your interview on time. It’s quick—mine took less than 30 minutes.
- Approval Email: After the interview, you’ll get an email confirming whether you passed or not. If you pass, you’ll receive your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck card in the mail.
- Activate Your Card: Follow the instructions provided to activate your card online.
Are There Free Alternatives? Yes—Mobile Passport
If you don’t have a credit card that reimburses the application fee, there’s a free alternative called Mobile Passport. You’ve probably seen signs for it at select international airports. I decided to try it out during a recent trip, and it worked like a charm.
To use Mobile Passport, simply download the app, input your personal details and passport information, then answer the standard immigration questions. After that, you can skip the regular lines and use the dedicated Mobile Passport line, which is typically much shorter.
You can learn more about Mobile Passport in this detailed article, “Why Mobile Passport Is the Best-Kept Secret Among International Travelers”.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether you choose TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or Mobile Passport depends on your travel habits. If you’re a frequent international traveler, Global Entry is the best option, giving you both TSA PreCheck and the ability to breeze through customs. If you don’t fly overseas often, TSA PreCheck is still an excellent choice for quicker airport security. And if you’re looking for a free alternative, Mobile Passport can be a great solution for cutting down your time in line.
So why wait in long lines when you don’t have to? Sign up for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, or try Mobile Passport, and start enjoying a smoother travel experience today!