TSA PreCheck vs Global Entry: Which One Do You Actually Need?
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Information sourced as of February 2026. The fees, processing times and program rules below were current when this guide was published and match our companion PDF. Government fees and requirements change, so confirm current details at the official links at the end of this guide before you apply.
The short answer
If you travel internationally even once a year, get Global Entry. It costs $120 and it already includes TSA PreCheck, so you get airport security benefits and customs benefits for one fee.
If you only fly domestically, get TSA PreCheck. It costs $78 to $85, the application is faster, and it does exactly what you need at the security checkpoint.
Do not buy both. Global Entry already includes PreCheck. This is the single most expensive mistake people make with these programs.
TSA PreCheck vs Global Entry at a glance
Both programs belong to the Department of Homeland Security’s Trusted Traveler network, but they solve different problems. Here is how they compare side by side.
| TSA PreCheck | Global Entry | |
|---|---|---|
| What it speeds up | Domestic airport security | International customs plus domestic security |
| Run by | Transportation Security Administration (TSA) | Customs and Border Protection (CBP) |
| At security | Dedicated PreCheck lane. Shoes on, belt on, laptop stays packed | Same PreCheck lane benefits |
| At customs | No benefit | Global Entry Mobile App. Skip the standard customs line |
| Includes the other? | No | Yes. Global Entry includes PreCheck |
| New enrollment | $78 to $85 | $120 |
| Renewal | $59 to $80 | $120 |
| Membership length | 5 years | 5 years |
| Application | Online plus a 10 minute enrollment appointment | Online, background check, then an in person interview |
| Processing time | 3 to 5 days typical | 2 weeks to several months |
The key fact most people miss is at the bottom of that table. Global Entry automatically includes TSA PreCheck. You do not need to pay for both.
Who can apply
Eligibility is the same for both programs. You can apply if you are a United States citizen, a United States national, or a lawful permanent resident, meaning a green card holder.
Both programs require a completed online application, a background check, in person biometric collection covering fingerprints and a photo, and no disqualifying criminal history. The background check is more thorough for Global Entry.
What about children?
For TSA PreCheck, children 12 and under can use the PreCheck lane with an enrolled parent and need no membership of their own. Children 13 to 17 may use the lane depending on airline policy.
For Global Entry, children under 18 enroll free when a parent holds Global Entry or applies at the same time. Each child still needs their own application and their own interview.
What if you are not a citizen or green card holder?
Some countries have reciprocal agreements. Citizens of select countries, including Canada, Germany, the Netherlands and South Korea among others, may qualify for Global Entry under bilateral trusted traveler arrangements. Check ttp.dhs.gov for the current list of eligible nationalities.
What they cost
TSA PreCheck costs $78 to $85 for new enrollment, and the exact figure varies by which approved provider you use. The three TSA authorized providers are IDEMIA, CLEAR and Telos. Renewal runs $59 to $80, and online renewals are generally cheaper.
Global Entry costs $120 to enroll and $120 to renew.
So Global Entry costs $35 to $42 more than PreCheck. For that difference you get customs benefits on top of everything PreCheck already offers. If you travel internationally even once, you will likely recover that difference the first time you skip a customs line.
An important note on renewals. You can renew both programs up to 12 months before expiration, and your current membership does not lapse while your renewal is processing. Do not wait until it expires.
Credit cards that cover the fee
Many premium travel credit cards reimburse the application fee as a statement credit, which means you can effectively pay nothing out of pocket. Cards that commonly offer this include American Express Platinum, American Express Gold, Chase Sapphire Reserve, Capital One Venture X, Citi Prestige, and a number of airline and hotel co branded cards.
You pay the application fee with your eligible card and the credit typically posts within one to two billing cycles. There is no claim form and nothing to upload.
One tip worth knowing: if your card covers Global Entry at $120, use it for Global Entry rather than PreCheck. You get more program for the same reimbursement.
Benefits and caps change, so check your card’s current terms at the issuer’s website before you apply.
How to apply for TSA PreCheck
The PreCheck process is straightforward and fast.
- Apply online. Go to tsa.gov/precheck and choose one of the three authorized enrollment providers. The online application takes about five minutes.
- Schedule your enrollment appointment. Book a 10 minute in person appointment near you. Locations include many airports, shopping centers and UPS stores.
- Bring your documents. You need a valid passport or a REAL ID compliant driver’s license, plus a second form of identification such as a credit card or birth certificate. Check your provider’s specific requirements first.
- Complete biometrics. Staff verify your documents, scan your fingerprints and take your photo. The appointment takes about 10 minutes.
- Receive your Known Traveler Number. Most applicants get their Known Traveler Number, or KTN, within three to five days.
If you do not have a REAL ID compliant license yet, our Real ID guide covers what qualifies and how to get one.
How to apply for Global Entry
Global Entry has a longer but clearly defined process.
- Create an account and apply at ttp.dhs.gov, and pay the $120 fee.
- Wait for conditional approval. Customs and Border Protection reviews your background, which takes two weeks to several months.
- Schedule your interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center through ttp.dhs.gov.
- Attend the interview. Fingerprints, a photo and questions. Most applicants are approved on the spot.
- Use your membership. Download the Global Entry app and move through customs.
If interview appointments are scarce in your area, Enrollment on Arrival lets you complete a walk in interview after an international flight. Check ttp.dhs.gov for participating locations. Our complete Global Entry guide walks through the full application, and our interview preparation guide covers what officers actually ask.
Five mistakes to avoid
- Paying for both programs. Global Entry already includes PreCheck. Do not pay twice.
- Forgetting to add your Known Traveler Number to airline reservations. PreCheck only appears on your boarding pass if your KTN is on file. Add it to every airline profile manually.
- Choosing PreCheck when you travel internationally. If you go abroad even once a year, Global Entry is the better value.
- Not checking your credit card benefits first. Many cards reimburse the $120 fee automatically.
- Waiting too long to apply for Global Entry. Apply three to six months ahead. Background checks and interviews take time.
How to decide
Do you travel internationally at least once a year? If yes, get Global Entry. You get customs benefits and TSA PreCheck for one fee, and the $35 to $42 premium pays for itself quickly. If no, get TSA PreCheck. It is a faster application, it costs less, and it does exactly what you need at the checkpoint.
Already have TSA PreCheck and thinking about upgrading? You cannot transfer an existing PreCheck membership. You apply for Global Entry separately. Once approved, your Global Entry Known Traveler Number replaces your PreCheck number, and a new five year clock starts from your Global Entry approval date.
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Frequently asked questions
Does Global Entry include TSA PreCheck?
Yes. Global Entry membership includes TSA PreCheck benefits at no extra cost. You do not need to apply or pay for PreCheck separately.
Which is better, TSA PreCheck or Global Entry?
Global Entry is better value if you travel internationally at least once a year, because it costs only $35 to $42 more and includes everything PreCheck offers plus customs benefits. TSA PreCheck is the better choice if you fly only within the United States.
How much does TSA PreCheck cost?
New enrollment is $78 to $85 depending on which approved provider you use, and renewal is $59 to $80. Online renewals are generally cheaper.
How much does Global Entry cost?
Global Entry costs $120 for a five year membership, and $120 to renew.
How long does approval take?
Most TSA PreCheck applicants receive their Known Traveler Number within three to five days. Global Entry takes longer, from two weeks to several months, because it includes a background check and an in person interview.
Do children need their own membership?
For TSA PreCheck, children 12 and under can use the PreCheck lane with an enrolled parent and need no membership. Children 13 to 17 may use the lane depending on airline policy. For Global Entry, children under 18 enroll free when a parent is enrolled, but each child still needs their own application and interview.
Can I upgrade from TSA PreCheck to Global Entry?
Not by transferring. You apply for Global Entry as a separate application. Once approved, your Global Entry Known Traveler Number replaces your PreCheck number and a new five year term begins.
When should I renew?
You can renew either program up to 12 months before expiration, and your membership does not lapse while the renewal is processing. Do not wait until it expires.
Official resources
- TSA PreCheck: tsa.gov/precheck
- Global Entry portal: ttp.dhs.gov
- CBP Global Entry information: cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry
- Enrollment on Arrival: cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry/enrollment-arrival
- Ask TSA: tsa.gov/contact/ask-tsa
- CBP INFO Center: help.cbp.gov
Details as of February 2026. Fees and program rules change, so verify at the official government sites above before applying. GovClarity is not a government agency.
