Global Entry vs TSA PreCheck: Which Should You Choose?

You're tired of long airport lines and want to join a trusted traveler program. But should you get TSA PreCheck or Global Entry? The answer depends on your travel habits—and one choice gives you way more value for just $22 extra.

TSA PreCheck: The Domestic Speed Pass

What you get: Faster security lines at 200+ US airports. Keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on. Leave laptops and liquids in your bag.

Cost: $78 for 5 years ($15.60/year)

Best for: People who only travel domestically or take 1-2 international trips per year.

The reality: PreCheck lines can still be 10-15 minutes during peak times at busy airports like LAX or JFK.

Global Entry: The International Traveler's Dream

What you get: Everything TSA PreCheck includes, PLUS expedited US customs when returning from abroad via automated kiosks.

Cost: $100 for 5 years ($20/year)

Best for: Anyone who travels internationally more than once every few years.

The game-changer: Skip the customs line entirely. Walk straight to the Global Entry kiosk, scan your passport, answer a few questions, and you're done in under 2 minutes.

Ready to Apply for Global Entry?

The hardest part isn't the application—it's finding an interview appointment. Our scanner monitors availability 24/7 so you don't have to.

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The Math: When Global Entry Pays Off

Extra cost for Global Entry: Just $22 more than PreCheck over 5 years

Time saved per international trip: 15-45 minutes (sometimes more during peak travel)

Break-even point: If you take just ONE international trip in 5 years, Global Entry pays for itself in time saved.

Application Process Differences

TSA PreCheck: Online application + background check + 10-minute in-person appointment at 500+ locations

Global Entry: Online application + background check + interview at 100+ enrollment centers (mostly airports and border crossings)

The catch: Global Entry interviews are much harder to book. Some locations have 6+ month waits.

Other Perks to Consider

Global Entry also includes:

  • NEXUS benefits (faster Canada border crossings)
  • SENTRI benefits (faster Mexico border crossings)
  • Mobile Passport app access (backup option)
  • Some credit cards reimburse the fee

Our Recommendation

Choose Global Entry if: You travel internationally at all, even occasionally. The extra $22 is worth it for the flexibility and time savings.

Choose TSA PreCheck if: You absolutely never travel internationally and want the fastest application process.

Bottom line: For most people, Global Entry is the smarter choice. You get everything PreCheck offers plus international benefits for just $4.40 more per year.

Skip the Appointment Hunt

Don't let appointment availability delay your Global Entry application. Get notified the moment interview slots open up near you.

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Thousands of travelers have secured appointments faster with automated scanning