What each program actually gives you
TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveler Program run by the TSA that marks your boarding pass with "TSA PreCheck" so you can use PreCheck lanes at participating US airports. You keep shoes, belts, and light jackets on, leave laptops and compliant liquids in your bag, and typically wait minutes instead of the main-line backlog.
TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveler Program run by the TSA that marks your boarding pass with "TSA PreCheck" so you can use PreCheck lanes at participating US airports. You keep shoes, belts, and light jackets on, leave laptops and compliant liquids in your bag, and typically wait minutes instead of the main-line backlog.
Global Entry is a US Customs and Border Protection program. Approved members use automated kiosks at US entry points, skipping the main immigration queue. Enrollment automatically registers you for TSA PreCheck, so you get both benefits with one application — the reason most frequent travelers choose Global Entry over PreCheck alone.
Application process and timeline
Both programs require online pre-enrollment, a background check, and an in-person interview. Global Entry interviews happen at enrollment centers — often at major airports — and wait times vary from a few weeks to several months depending on location. Some travelers schedule interviews on arrival at certain airports after an international flight.
Both programs require online pre-enrollment, a background check, and an in-person interview. Global Entry interviews happen at enrollment centers — often at major airports — and wait times vary from a few weeks to several months depending on location. Some travelers schedule interviews on arrival at certain airports after an international flight.
TSA PreCheck interviews are shorter and available at more locations, including standalone enrollment offices. Children 12 and under can use PreCheck lanes with a participating parent; Global Entry has separate rules for minors. Renewals are online for many members and cost the same five-year fee.
Credit cards that cover the fee
A long list of premium US travel cards offer a statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fees every four to five years. The Amex Platinum, Chase Sapphire Reserve, and several airline premium cards include this perk — but only for the primary cardholder unless noted otherwise.
A long list of premium US travel cards offer a statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fees every four to five years. The Amex Platinum, Chase Sapphire Reserve, and several airline premium cards include this perk — but only for the primary cardholder unless noted otherwise.
Claim the credit when you pay the application or renewal fee with the eligible card. The credit usually posts automatically within a billing cycle or two. If you already have PreCheck and upgrade to Global Entry, confirm your card covers the Global Entry fee specifically — policies differ.
Clear, NEXUS, and other programs
Clear is a separate paid service ($189/year) that verifies identity via biometrics at select airports. It does not replace PreCheck — many members carry both because Clear speeds the ID check while PreCheck speeds the screening lane. Clear credits appear on some premium cards separately from Global Entry.
Clear is a separate paid service ($189/year) that verifies identity via biometrics at select airports. It does not replace PreCheck — many members carry both because Clear speeds the ID check while PreCheck speeds the screening lane. Clear credits appear on some premium cards separately from Global Entry.
NEXUS ($50 for five years) covers expedited land and air border crossing between the US and Canada plus PreCheck. SENTRI is the US–Mexico equivalent. US citizens and lawful permanent residents qualify for Global Entry; green card holders can apply for PreCheck directly without Global Entry in some cases.