Do You Need TSA PreCheck If You Have Global Entry?

You don't need TSA PreCheck separately if you have Global Entry

Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck as part of its benefits. When you enroll in Global Entry, you automatically receive TSA PreCheck privileges at U.S. airport security checkpoints. You will not need to pay for or maintain a separate TSA PreCheck membership.

Global Entry is the more comprehensive program. It covers expedited security screening when you return to the United States by air, sea, or land, plus the TSA PreCheck benefit for domestic flights. If you only fly domestically and never cross a border, TSA PreCheck alone is the less expensive option. But if you travel internationally at all, Global Entry gives you both programs for one enrollment fee.

Key Takeaways

Global Entry membership automatically includes TSA PreCheck, so you receive both benefits with a single enrollment.
You pay one fee for Global Entry (currently $100 for five years) and get TSA PreCheck included at no additional cost.
TSA PreCheck alone costs $78 to $85 for five years and covers only domestic airport security lines.
If you travel internationally, Global Entry is the better value because it covers both international re-entry and domestic flights.
Your Global Entry card and Known Traveler Number (KTN) work for both programs at U.S. airports.

How Global Entry and TSA PreCheck overlap

Both programs let you move through airport security faster by using dedicated lanes. With either one, you keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on; leave your laptop and liquids in your bag; and go through expedited screening. The main difference is where each program works.

TSA PreCheck works only at U.S. domestic airport security checkpoints. Global Entry covers that same domestic benefit, but adds expedited processing when you return to the United States through an airport, seaport, or land border crossing. If you hold Global Entry, you use the same Known Traveler Number (KTN) for both your domestic flights and your international re-entry.

When to choose TSA PreCheck alone

TSA PreCheck makes sense if you fly domestically within the United States but never travel internationally. The program costs less than Global Entry and covers everything you need for domestic trips. You enroll through the TSA website, provide your information, and attend a brief appointment at an enrollment center.

TSA PreCheck is also the right choice if you travel internationally but do not want to pay for Global Entry's additional benefits. Some travelers prefer to keep their international re-entry straightforward or use a different trusted traveler program. TSA PreCheck remains available as a standalone option for those situations.

When Global Entry is the better value

If you travel internationally even occasionally, Global Entry usually costs less over five years than paying for both programs separately. Global Entry runs $100 for five years. If you bought TSA PreCheck ($78 to $85 for five years) and then needed expedited re-entry benefits, you would pay extra for a separate program like Trusted Traveler or NEXUS. Global Entry bundles both into one fee.

Global Entry also includes benefits beyond TSA PreCheck. You can use automated kiosks at U.S. airports when returning from international flights, which speeds up customs and immigration processing. You get the same expedited treatment at land borders and some seaports. For frequent international travelers, these features alone often justify the enrollment cost.

How to enroll and use your benefits

To enroll in Global Entry, visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website and create an account. You will answer background questions, pay the $100 fee, and schedule an in-person appointment at a Global Entry enrollment center. The appointment takes about 15 minutes and includes fingerprinting and a brief interview.

Once approved, you receive a Global Entry card and a Known Traveler Number (KTN). Use your KTN when booking flights, and the airline will add it to your reservation. At the airport, look for the TSA PreCheck lane or Global Entry kiosk, depending on whether you are departing domestically or returning from an international trip. Your card and KTN work for both purposes automatically.

What happens if your Global Entry expires

Global Entry membership lasts five years from your approval date. When it expires, your TSA PreCheck benefit expires with it. You will no longer have access to expedited security lanes or Global Entry kiosks at customs.

You can renew Global Entry through the CBP website starting 180 days before your card expires. Renewal costs $100 and usually requires only an online update of your information, though CBP may ask you to attend another in-person appointment. If you let your membership lapse, you will need to enroll again from the beginning and pay the full fee.

Other trusted traveler programs and how they compare

The U.S. government offers several trusted traveler programs beyond Global Entry and TSA PreCheck. NEXUS covers expedited processing at U.S.-Canada borders and includes TSA PreCheck. SENTRI covers the U.S.-Mexico border and includes TSA PreCheck. Trusted Traveler covers sea travel and includes TSA PreCheck.

If you travel frequently to a specific country or border, one of these programs might offer better value than Global Entry. However, Global Entry remains the broadest option because it covers all U.S. borders and airports. You can hold multiple trusted traveler memberships at once if your travel patterns warrant it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Global Entry card for TSA PreCheck at the airport?

Yes. Your Global Entry card and Known Traveler Number work for TSA PreCheck at domestic airport security checkpoints. You do not need a separate card or number. When you book a flight, add your KTN to your reservation, and the airline will flag your boarding pass for the TSA PreCheck lane.

What if I have TSA PreCheck and want to upgrade to Global Entry?

You can enroll in Global Entry separately. Your TSA PreCheck membership does not transfer or credit toward Global Entry. However, you can hold both memberships at the same time if you want to keep your TSA PreCheck active while waiting for Global Entry approval. Most travelers straightforward enroll in Global Entry and let their TSA PreCheck expire when it comes due.

Does Global Entry work on international flights departing the U.S.?

Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, so yes, you use the expedited security lane when departing on an international flight. However, Global Entry's main benefit is expedited re-entry when you return to the United States. For outbound international flights, you are using the TSA PreCheck portion of your membership.

What if I travel to countries that are not part of Global Entry?

Global Entry covers your re-entry to the United States from any country. You use the expedited customs kiosk or lane when you land back in the U.S., regardless of where you traveled. The program does not provide benefits in foreign airports or at foreign customs checkpoints.

Can I get TSA PreCheck reimbursed if I enroll in Global Entry?

No. TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are separate enrollments with separate fees. If you hold an active TSA PreCheck membership when you enroll in Global Entry, you will have both memberships running until each one expires. You will not receive a refund or credit for the remaining time on your TSA PreCheck.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.