TSA PreCheck vs Global Entry - which one and how to apply

from tsa.gov and cbp.gov directly, not a credit card blog trying to sell you a card. current as of Sep 2026.

Never miss an update

This list changes over time. Get a short email when it does.

At most one short email a week. Unfollow in one click.

Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck automatically

the fact that ends most of these arguments before they start

TSA PreCheck only speeds up security for flights leaving the US

Global Entry also speeds up customs when you re-enter the US

under 4 international trips a year, TSA's own guidance says PreCheck is enough

4+ international trips a year, get Global Entry instead

check the date on your last trip before you talk yourself out of it. it adds up faster than you think

PreCheck step 1: apply online, about 5 minutes

PreCheck step 2: enrollment center visit for fingerprints and a photo, about 10 minutes

bring the right ID or they send you home. watched it happen to the guy ahead of me

PreCheck costs $78 to $85 depending on the provider you pick

Global Entry step 1: apply and pay $120 through the TTP site, needs a login.gov account first

Global Entry step 2: background check, TSA says usually about 2 weeks, can run much longer

mine took 3 weeks. a coworker's took 8 months. no pattern to it

Global Entry step 3: in-person interview, or skip it with Enrollment on Arrival at some airports

gate-checked once, never again, so I always confirm the enrollment location before I fly out for the interview

Or start a list of your own. Free, it takes a minute.

Related lists