That depends. How much do you love walking across dirty airport floors in your socks?
But seriously, I wasn’t sure these programs were worth the hassle either. Then I got a credit card that covered the application fee as a perk, and I haven’t once missed the feeling of slogging through the slow line at airport security as I breeze through the TSA PreCheck lane.
PreCheck, which eases domestic travel, and Global Entry, which covers international travel, are both government-operated Trusted Traveler Programs. Basically, the feds run background checks on applicants and issue Known Traveler Numbers to those who pass. The privileges are valid for 5 years.
In the case of PreCheck, that code lets you speed through security checkpoints at more than 200 domestic airports, usually allowing you to use shorter lines, keep your shoes on, and leave liquids and electronics in your bag. In fact, 99% of PreCheckers spend 10 minutes or less at security, according to the TSA. (Your airline must participate in the program, too. But all major U.S. carriers do.) TSA PreCheck costs $78.
For $100, Global Entry status holders bypass lengthy immigration lines when returning home from foreign countries and also enjoy PreCheck benefits.
While both PreCheck and Global Entry require travelers to apply online and then interview in person, it can be far easier to schedule an appointment for PreCheck. A recent scan of a dozen enrollment centers in Los Angeles County, for example, revealed the longest wait for an interview was 3 weeks, and most sites had next-day availability.
Global Entry applications, however, can take about 4–6 months to be processed. Once preapproved, travelers can complete the in-person step either at one of the designated enrollment centers around the U.S. or as they re-enter the U.S. at dozens of airports. (I did so at Boston Logan, and it took about 5 minutes.) As of this year, international travelers at Dulles International can do the same before their departure.
Travelers should also be aware of 2 other niche Trusted Traveler Programs. SENTRI eases land-border crossings from Mexico by car and in some places by foot. NEXUS covers air, land, and sea crossings from Canada. Both privileges include PreCheck status.
As a frequent international traveler, I didn’t hesitate to apply for Global Entry. Much harder is the decision to leave behind my travel companions who don’t have PreCheck when I zip through the security line. Thankfully, I always have plenty of extra time at the gate to get over it.
