TSA PreCheck vs Global Entry (2026)
Both programs speed up airport security, but they serve different purposes. Here's which one makes sense for your travel style.
Quick Comparison
| Program | Cost | Valid | What It Does |
|---|---|---|---|
| TSA PreCheck | $78 (5 years) | 5 years | Expedited domestic security lane — no removing shoes, laptops, or liquids |
| Global Entry | $120 (5 years) | 5 years | PreCheck included + automated customs kiosks when returning from international trips |
| CLEAR | $189/year | 1 year | Biometric lane bypass at 50+ US airports — skip the ID check line, not security screening |
| NEXUS | $50 (5 years) | 5 years | US/Canada border + Global Entry equivalent + PreCheck included |
Which Should You Get?
- Fly mostly domestic: TSA PreCheck at $78 is the better value. The expedited lane makes a meaningful difference at busy airports like ORD, LAX, and JFK.
- Fly internationally (even occasionally): Get Global Entry. It includes PreCheck and saves 45–60 minutes at US customs kiosks vs the standard line. The extra $42 over 5 years (less than $9/year) is clearly worth it for one international trip.
- Travel between US and Canada frequently: NEXUS is the best deal at $50 and includes Global Entry equivalent benefits plus dedicated Canada–US border crossing lanes.
- CLEAR + PreCheck or Global Entry: The combination is increasingly popular. CLEAR bypasses the ID check queue; PreCheck skips the screening queue. Together they make security nearly instant at airports where both operate.
Is My Credit Card Reimbursing the Fee?
Most premium travel credit cards reimburse Global Entry every 4–5 years: Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Capital One Venture X, Citi Prestige, United Club Infinite, and many others. If you have any of these cards, your Global Entry application ($120) is effectively free.
Application Process
- Apply online at the CBP Trusted Traveler Programs portal (TTP) for Global Entry, or the TSA website for PreCheck.
- Complete the online questionnaire (background check, travel history, criminal record).
- Schedule and attend an in-person interview at an enrollment center (airports and CBP offices). Wait times can be 2–6 weeks depending on location.
- Receive your Known Traveler Number (KTN) and add it to every airline booking to activate PreCheck.
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