Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck: Which is better?

If you travel often for work, you’ve probably thought about ways to spend less time waiting in airport security lines. Two trusted traveler programs promise faster and easier airport screening. But which one is right for you? 

To help you compare Global Entry versus TSA PreCheck, we’ll walk through each program's offerings and costs. We’ll also explain how long Global Entry and TSA PreCheck statuses last and which makes more sense depending on how and where you travel.

What’s Global Entry, and how does it work? 

If you often travel internationally, Global Entry could save you time at the airport, especially when you’re in a rush to catch a connecting flight. Here’s what it is and how the process works.

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program designed to speed up re-entering the United States after traveling abroad. Members can use automated kiosks at major airports instead of waiting in line for customs officers.

Real-life example: Imagine you’re returning to the U.S. from a business trip to Germany. One of your flights was overbooked, so you need to be first at the gate to catch it. You recently obtained a Global Entry membership, so you skip the long customs lines and head straight to the kiosk. From there, you just scan your passport and fingerprints, and you're on your way in minutes.

What’s TSA PreCheck, and how does it work? 

TSA PreCheck is tailored for domestic travelers who want to skip the hassle at airport security. It’s a program from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that gives travelers access to a faster security lane at over 200 U.S. airports. You don’t need to travel in first or business class to use this program.

PreCheck lets you avoid waiting in long airport security lines. Laptops and liquids can stay in your bag, and you don’t have to take off your shoes or go through a full-body scanner.

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Real-life example: You’re on a long-haul flight from New York City to San Francisco for a conference with two laptops and an iPad. You’re short on time, but since you have TSA PreCheck, you walk straight to the front of a dedicated security line. You get to keep your shoes on and your electronics in the bag—you even have time to grab a coffee while your colleagues wait in the standard line. 

Key characteristics of Global Entry and TSA PreCheck 

To help you make the most informed decision, let’s examine each program's specific details, from eligibility to costs.

TSA PreCheck characteristics 

TSA PreCheck offers convenience for U.S. travelers who value speed and simplicity at airport security. Here are the details you should know.

TSA PreCheck availability and eligibility 

TSA PreCheck is available to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. It’s ideal for people who frequently travel domestically within the United States.

TSA PreCheck application process

You apply online, schedule an appointment at an enrollment center, and complete a fingerprint-based background check. The process is usually fast—most applicants receive approval within a few days to weeks.

TSA PreCheck cost

In 2025, the TSA PreCheck application fee is $78. Renewing costs the same, but some people qualify for discounted rates online. Some credit card companies will also take care of the fee for you.

TSA renewal period 

Membership lasts for five years and can be renewed online.

Global Entry characteristics

Global Entry is designed for travelers returning to the U.S. from abroad and includes the benefits of TSA PreCheck. Here’s what you need to qualify, apply, and get approved.

Global Entry availability and eligibility

Global Entry is available to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and citizens of certain countries, like the UK, Germany, and South Korea. To qualify, you must have a valid passport and no disqualifying criminal convictions.

Global Entry application process

After filling out the Global Entry application on the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website, you’ll wait for conditional approval, then attend an in-person interview. Some travelers are able to finalize enrollment at designated airports when returning to the U.S. from another country.

Global Entry renewal period 

Like TSA PreCheck, Global Entry membership lasts five years. You can renew your membership online, but you may have to complete another interview.

Global Entry cost

The application fee for 2025 is $100. Like PreCheck, it’s non-refundable even if you’re denied.

Global Entry credit card reimbursement 

Certain travel credit cards, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Capital One Venture Rewards, reimburse the application fee for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck (but not both). If you qualify, choose the higher-value option: Global Entry.

Differences between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck

Before choosing a program, it helps to compare them side-by-side. This chart outlines the key differences in purpose, cost, and who each one is designed for.

How to choose the best option as a business traveler

Here’s a simple way to figure out which program is better for you if you travel for work:

• Choose TSA PreCheck if you primarily fly within the U.S. and want to breeze through domestic airport security lines.
• Choose Global Entry if you travel internationally at least once a year. You’ll get all the TSA PreCheck benefits plus faster re-entry to the U.S.

A business consultant who travels to different U.S. states weekly but rarely leaves the country might only need TSA PreCheck, while a sales manager who flies to Canada or Europe a few times a year will benefit more from Global Entry.

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FAQs

Does Global Entry include TSA PreCheck?

Yes, Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits. When you sign up for Global Entry, you automatically receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN), which qualifies you for TSA PreCheck lanes at U.S. airports. There’s no need to submit a separate application for PreCheck if you’re signing up for Global Entry.

What happens if I miss my Global Entry or TSA PreCheck interview?

If you miss your scheduled interview, don’t panic—you’re not automatically disqualified. For TSA PreCheck, you can log into the enrollment website and reschedule your appointment. It’s usually easy to find another slot, especially if you’re location-flexible. For Global Entry, you’ll need to log into your Trusted Travel Program (TTP) account and select a new interview time. 

Repeatedly no-showing might affect your eligibility. And since Global Entry enrollment centers are often booked weeks or even months in advance, missing an appointment could significantly delay approval.

Can I use Global Entry or TSA PreCheck with my family or kids?

Yes, with a few caveats. With TSA PreCheck, children 12 and under can go through the PreCheck lane with an approved parent or guardian, even if the child isn’t enrolled. Once they turn 13, they’ll need their own membership. 

For Global Entry, every person in your travel party, no matter their age, must have their own membership, including infants and toddlers. The application and interview process are the same, but the interview is usually shorter for kids—just be prepared to book appointments for each family member and bring all relevant documents. If you’re only traveling within the U.S., TSA PreCheck may be enough for families with younger children.

Do I need a Known Traveler Number (KTN) when booking a flight?

Your Known Traveler Number (KTN) is the key to accessing the benefits of either TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. You need to enter it every time you book a flight to trigger the system to recognize your status. Most airline profiles let you save your KTN so it’s automatically connected to your plane ticket, but if you’re using a new airline, booking tool, or third-party site, double-check that your KTN shows on your boarding pass.

Are Global Entry and TSA PreCheck available at every airport?

Not quite, but they’re widely available. More than 200 airports across the U.S. offer TSA PreCheck, and most major airlines participate in the program, but some smaller regional airports may not have dedicated PreCheck lanes. Check the TSA website to see if your usual airports support it. 

Global Entry kiosks are located at most major U.S. international airports, but if you frequently fly into smaller or less-trafficked locations, there may not be a kiosk available. In those cases, you’ll have to go through standard customs. Another thing to note is that not all enrollment centers offer both programs, and availability for interview appointments can vary.