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The major airport we live near happens to be one with reputable security lines (and not for good reasons). This sent me down a rabbit trail of TSA Precheck and Global Entry Research. What is it? And How do I get it?
TSA Precheck
To get TSA Precheck, you apply online https://www.tsa.gov/precheck and then go to an in person processing center to get fingerprinted, background checked, and pay your fee. (It was a super fast appointment, and they had many available within a week.) Once you complete these steps you will get your Known Traveler ID which you will pop into your airline reservations (this can be done retroactively if you already made the reservation). The agent who assisted me also recommended pre-loading it to all your airline accounts so it is there when you need it.
*UPDATED POLICY as of 5/2023 – This will then allow you and YOUR CHILDREN, as long as they are under 18 to go through the precheck line.
I love that you do not need to pay a separate pre-check fee for your kids.
Global Entry
Global Entry is a different beast. However, it includes TSA Precheck, so you get a two-for-one deal. If you have lots of international trips, I would recommend it, otherwise, I would pass it by. My husband travels internationally for work, so he won the Global Entry Golden Ticket. For global entry you will sign up online just like Precheck. The questionnaire is more in depth than TSA precheck so make sure you have some time to sit and fill it out. Once you complete your application, you will need an interview, likely at your nearest airport. For this, you have two options:
- Schedule an Interview – these have been consistently sitting at 6 months out. So when you see one, grab it. I would recommend trying to book it for after your next birthday if possible. Global Entry works for 5 years from your next birthday. If you sign-up after your birthday that gives you almost another full year.
- Wait and complete entry on arrival – when you arrive in the US from your international trip, follow the enrollment on arrival signs for those who have been conditionally approved. They will ask you some questions, take your picture and fingerprints and you’ll be on your way.
**Of note – each individual member of your family needs their own global entry – kids do not get grandfathered in like they do with TSA Pre-check.
So, how do I get Precheck or Global Entry for Free?
I’ve got you covered! All you need to do is pay your fee for global entry or precheck with these cards (these will only cover part of global entry, but all of the pre-check fee). Here are a list of credit cards that will cover $100 of your global entry or pre-check fees every 4 years:
- Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business
- Capital One Venture
- Capital One Venture X
- Bank of America Premium Rewards
- Chase Sapphire Reserve
- Capital One Spark Miles for Business
- Citi/AAadvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard
- Amex Platinum
At a tiny airport, these may not be as helpful, but in long customs lines and extended TSA wait times with kids, this was a no-brainer for our family. I am so excited to speed right through TSA, although I have been cautioned that my kids and I better not hold up the line. Wish me luck!
