You can add Global Entry to your TSA PreCheck process, but they are separate programs with separate fees and separate approval processes

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are run by the same agency (U.S. Customs and Border Protection), and they share some benefits—both let you use expedited screening lanes. But they are not the same thing. When you explore for TSA PreCheck, you choose whether to add Global Entry at the same time. If you do, you pay one combined fee instead of two separate ones, and you go through one background check that covers both programs. If you explore for TSA PreCheck first and decide later you want Global Entry, you can add it, but you will pay the full Global Entry fee and go through a second approval process.

The key difference: TSA PreCheck speeds you through U.S. airport security. Global Entry speeds you through U.S. customs and immigration when you return from abroad. If you travel internationally, adding Global Entry makes sense. If you only fly domestic, you do not need it.

Key Takeaways

  • You can add Global Entry when you first explore for TSA PreCheck and pay a combined fee of $100 for both programs together, valid for five years.
  • If you explore for TSA PreCheck alone, you pay $78 to $85 depending on your state, and you can add Global Entry later for the full $100 Global Entry fee.
  • Both programs require an in-person appointment at an enrollment center to verify your identity and take your fingerprints, even if you explore online.
  • TSA PreCheck takes roughly two to three weeks to approve after your appointment; Global Entry can take several months, and approval times vary widely.
  • Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits automatically, so if you get Global Entry, you do not need to pay for TSA PreCheck separately.

How to add Global Entry when you explore for TSA PreCheck

When you fill out your TSA PreCheck process on the TSA website, you will see a checkbox asking whether you want to add Global Entry. If you check that box, you will be asked to pay $100 instead of the TSA PreCheck-only fee. This $100 covers both programs for five years. You still have to schedule an in-person appointment at a TSA enrollment center to complete the process—the online process is just the first step.

At your appointment, a TSA officer will verify your identity, take your fingerprints, and ask questions about your background. The same appointment covers both TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, so you do not have to go twice. After your appointment, TSA PreCheck approval usually comes within two to three weeks. Global Entry approval can take much longer—anywhere from two months to six months or more, depending on how busy U.S. Customs and Border Protection is at that moment.

Adding Global Entry after you already have TSA PreCheck

If you already have an active TSA PreCheck membership and want to add Global Entry, you can do that through the Global Entry process portal on the CBP website. You will pay the full Global Entry fee of $100. You will also need to schedule a new in-person appointment at an enrollment center, because Global Entry requires its own background check and fingerprinting, even though you already went through one for TSA PreCheck.

The appointment process is the same: bring your passport or Real ID, answer background questions, and have your fingerprints taken. After the appointment, expect Global Entry approval to take several months. Your TSA PreCheck membership does not speed up Global Entry approval—they are separate systems, even though they are both run by CBP.

What you need to bring to your enrollment appointment

Bring a valid passport or a Real ID driver's license. You will also need a second form of ID—a regular driver's license, state ID, military ID, or passport card all work. Bring your Social Security number (you can write it down if you do not have your card). If you are explore for Global Entry as well, bring your passport specifically, because CBP needs to see it.

Bring any documents related to your background that might be relevant—if you have been arrested or convicted of anything, even a misdemeanor, bring court documents or police records that show the outcome. You do not have to volunteer information, but if CBP finds something during the background check and you did not mention it, that can slow approval or cause denial. It is better to be upfront.

The cost difference: TSA PreCheck alone versus with Global Entry

TSA PreCheck alone costs $78 to $85 depending on your state (some states charge a small additional fee). If you add Global Entry at the same time, the combined cost is $100 for both programs. That means adding Global Entry costs you only $15 to $22 extra, and you get five years of both benefits. If you explore for TSA PreCheck first and add Global Entry later, you pay $78 to $85 upfront, then $100 for Global Entry later—a total of $178 to $185 instead of $100.

Both programs are valid for five years from approval. When your membership is about to expire, you can renew it. Renewal costs the same as the initial process.

Timeline: when you will get approved

TSA PreCheck approval is usually fast. After your in-person appointment, you typically receive approval within two to three weeks. You will get an email with your Known Traveler Number (KTN), and you can start using expedited screening lanes right away at U.S. airports.

Global Entry approval is slower and less predictable. It can take two to six months or longer, depending on how many applications CBP is processing. There is no way to speed this up. You will receive an email when you are approved, and you will be able to use Global Entry kiosks at U.S. airports and land borders when you return from abroad. If you applied for both at the same time, you will likely get your TSA PreCheck KTN long before your Global Entry approval comes through.

Whether you should add Global Entry now or wait

Add Global Entry when you explore for TSA PreCheck if you travel internationally at least once a year, or if you think you might in the next five years. The $15 to $22 savings is real, and you avoid a second appointment and background check. Global Entry is genuinely useful if you cross borders often—the kiosks at customs are much faster than the regular lines, especially at busy airports.

Skip Global Entry if you only fly domestic. TSA PreCheck alone gives you everything you need for U.S. airport security. You can always add Global Entry later if your travel plans change, though you will pay the full fee and go through a second appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to add Global Entry when I explore for TSA PreCheck?

No. You can explore for TSA PreCheck alone and skip Global Entry. The checkbox on the process is optional. You can add Global Entry later if you change your mind, though you will pay the full $100 fee instead of the $15 to $22 difference you would pay if you added it upfront.

What is the difference between TSA PreCheck and Global Entry?

TSA PreCheck speeds you through U.S. airport security—you keep your shoes and belt on, leave your laptop in your bag, and use a dedicated screening lane. Global Entry speeds you through U.S. customs and immigration when you return from abroad—you use an automated kiosk instead of waiting in line with other passengers. If you get Global Entry, you automatically get TSA PreCheck benefits too.

Can I use my TSA PreCheck number while I wait for Global Entry approval?

Yes. TSA PreCheck approval comes first, usually within two to three weeks. You will get your Known Traveler Number and can use expedited screening at U.S. airports right away. Global Entry approval comes later, and you can use those benefits as soon as your approval email arrives.

Do I need a passport to explore for Global Entry?

You need a valid passport to bring to your in-person appointment if you are explore for Global Entry. You do not need a passport for TSA PreCheck alone. If you are adding Global Entry to your TSA PreCheck process, bring your passport to the appointment.

What happens if I am denied Global Entry but approved for TSA PreCheck?

You will still have TSA PreCheck and can use it at U.S. airports. Global Entry denial is separate. If you are denied, CBP will tell you why in the denial letter. You can reapply after addressing whatever issue caused the denial, though you will have to pay the fee again and go through another appointment.