The Difference Between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck®

For travelers seeking to streamline their airport experience, Global Entry and TSA PreCheck® offer valuable time-saving benefits. While both are Department of Homeland Security trusted traveler programs, they serve different purposes and cater to distinct travel needs. Understanding their key differences can help you choose the program that best fits your travel patterns. Both application fees are covered by many credit cards, if your cards don’t cover them today let us take a look and see if there is a good fit out there for you. Check out our personal credit card recommendation services!

TSA PreCheck®: Domestic Travel Benefits

TSA PreCheck®, managed by the Transportation Security Administration, focuses on expediting security screening for domestic flights departing from U.S. airports. For a fee of $78-85, members receive five years of access to dedicated security lanes at over 200 U.S. airports through more than 90 participating airlines.

The program allows travelers to move through security without removing shoes, belts, or light jackets. Additionally, laptops and TSA-approved liquids can remain in carry-on bags. This streamlined process results in significantly reduced wait times, with 99% of PreCheck passengers clearing security in under 10 minutes.

Global Entry: Comprehensive International Travel Benefits

Global Entry, operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, provides a more extensive set of benefits for international travelers. The $120 five-year membership includes all TSA PreCheck® privileges plus expedited customs screening when entering the United States. Members can bypass traditional customs lines by using automated kiosks at more than 75 airports, making international arrival processes substantially faster.

The program also offers expedited processing at land borders with Mexico and Canada, providing additional value for frequent cross-border travelers. While the application process is more rigorous, requiring a valid passport and an in-person interview, the comprehensive benefits often justify the extra effort for international travelers.

Making the Right Choice

The decision between these programs primarily depends on your travel patterns and needs. Consider choosing Global Entry if you:

• Travel internationally four or more times per year

• Value comprehensive benefits for both domestic and international travel

• Have easy access to enrollment centers for the required interview

• Already possess a valid passport

TSA PreCheck® may be more suitable if you:

• Primarily travel domestically

• Want a simpler application process

• Don't have immediate plans for international travel

• Prefer a lower-cost option

• Important Considerations

Several practical factors can influence your decision. Many premium travel credit cards offer statement credits that cover application fees for either program, though typically not both. For families, children under 12 can use TSA PreCheck® lanes when traveling with an enrolled adult. However, Global Entry requires individual enrollment for each family member, though applicants under 18 are free when a parent or guardian is a member.

Application processing times also differ significantly. TSA PreCheck® typically processes applications within 3-5 days, while Global Entry can take 4-6 months. Both programs require background checks and in-person visits, but Global Entry's interview requirement and limited enrollment locations make its application process more demanding.

Advisor Recap

While both programs offer valuable benefits, Global Entry provides the most comprehensive coverage for frequent travelers, particularly those who regularly cross international borders. Its inclusion of TSA PreCheck® benefits makes the additional $42 cost difference relatively minimal considering the added conveniences. However, for domestic travelers seeking a straightforward solution to airport security delays, TSA PreCheck® offers excellent value with minimal complexity.

Check to see if any of your current credit cards cover the cost of the application. If they don’t and you are thinking about applying for one of these programs now is also the perfect time to review your credit card options. Whichever program you choose, early application is key to ensure approval before your next trip.