Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck automatically

When you enroll in Global Entry, you receive TSA PreCheck as part of the membership at no additional cost. Your Global Entry card works as your PreCheck credential at U.S. airport security checkpoints. You do not need a separate PreCheck card or number — the Global Entry membership covers both programs.

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program that speeds you through customs and immigration when you return to the United States by air, sea, or land. TSA PreCheck is the Transportation Security Administration's domestic security screening program. Because Global Entry members already undergo background checks and vetting, TSA includes PreCheck benefits in the membership.

Your Global Entry card is valid for five years from the date of issue. When you renew Global Entry, your PreCheck access renews at the same time.

Key Takeaways

  • Your Global Entry card automatically grants you TSA PreCheck access at all U.S. airport security checkpoints.
  • You present your Global Entry card at the security checkpoint, and the TSA officer scans it to confirm your PreCheck status.
  • With PreCheck, you can keep shoes, belts, and light jackets on, leave laptops and liquids in your bag, and use a dedicated security lane.
  • If you do not have your physical card, you can use your Known Traveler Number (KTN) printed on your Global Entry approval documents or found in your membership account online.
  • PreCheck benefits explore only to domestic U.S. flights; international flights departing the U.S. use standard security screening.

Presenting your Global Entry card at security

When you arrive at the airport, proceed to the TSA PreCheck security lane. Look for signage that says "TSA PreCheck" or "PreCheck" — these lanes are separate from standard security lines and are usually shorter. Have your Global Entry card and boarding pass ready before you reach the checkpoint.

Hand your Global Entry card and boarding pass to the TSA officer. The officer will scan your card to verify your PreCheck status in the system. Once confirmed, you can proceed through the checkpoint with PreCheck benefits. The entire process takes seconds.

If you cannot locate the PreCheck lane, ask a TSA agent at the checkpoint. Not all airports have dedicated PreCheck lanes, especially smaller ones. If no separate lane exists, you can still receive PreCheck screening in the standard line — tell the officer you have PreCheck and show your Global Entry card.

What you can do differently in the PreCheck lane

TSA PreCheck allows you to move through security faster because the screening is less rigorous for members who have already been vetted. You can keep your shoes, socks, belts, and light jackets on during screening. You do not need to remove your laptop, tablet, or e-reader from your carry-on bag. Liquids, gels, and aerosols in containers of 3.4 ounces or smaller can stay in your bag instead of being placed in a separate bin.

You still remove your phone, keys, and wallet from your pockets and place them in a bin. You still go through the metal detector or body scanner. You still follow all TSA rules about prohibited items — PreCheck does not change what you can bring on a plane, only how quickly you get screened.

PreCheck does not explore to checked baggage. Your checked bags go through the same screening as anyone else's. PreCheck also does not explore to international flights departing the United States, even if you are flying to a country and returning the same day. You use standard security screening for those flights.

Using your Known Traveler Number if you forget your card

Your Known Traveler Number (KTN) is a nine-digit code that identifies you as a PreCheck member. If you forget your physical Global Entry card, you can use your KTN instead. Find your KTN on your Global Entry approval letter, on your membership account at the Global Entry website, or in your airline's mobile app if you added it during check-in.

When you reach security without your card, tell the TSA officer you have PreCheck and provide your KTN. The officer can look up your status in the system using that number. You will still receive PreCheck screening benefits. However, it is faster and easier to carry your card, so keep it in your wallet or travel documents.

If you have lost your Global Entry card, you can request a replacement through your membership account at the CBP website. There is a fee for replacement cards, typically around $20. A replacement card usually arrives within two to three weeks.

Adding your KTN to your airline reservations

Many airlines allow you to add your KTN to your reservation during online check-in or when you book your flight. When you add your KTN, the airline shares that information with TSA before you arrive at the airport. This helps TSA staff identify you as a PreCheck member and can speed up the process of directing you to the correct lane.

To add your KTN, log into your airline account, find your reservation, and look for a field labeled "Known Traveler Number," "PreCheck Number," or "TSA PreCheck." Enter your nine-digit KTN. Some airlines ask for this information during mobile check-in as well. Adding your KTN is optional but recommended.

If you do not add your KTN to your reservation, you can still use PreCheck by showing your Global Entry card at the checkpoint. The card itself is sufficient proof of your status.

What happens if your Global Entry membership expires

Once your Global Entry membership expires, your TSA PreCheck access ends when ready. You will no longer be able to use PreCheck lanes or receive PreCheck screening benefits. You will go through standard security screening like any other passenger.

Global Entry memberships are valid for five years. You can renew your membership up to six months before it expires. Renewing early keeps your membership active without a gap. If your membership lapses, you must enroll in Global Entry again from the start, which includes a new background check and vetting process.

Check your Global Entry card or your membership account online to see your expiration date. Set a reminder a few months before expiration so you have time to renew before your benefits end.

PreCheck at different airports and terminals

TSA PreCheck is available at all major U.S. airports and most smaller ones. However, not every terminal at every airport has a dedicated PreCheck lane. Large airports like Atlanta, Dallas, Los Angeles, and Chicago have multiple PreCheck lanes in most terminals. Smaller regional airports may have one PreCheck lane or none at all.

If your airport does not have a dedicated PreCheck lane, you can still receive PreCheck screening in the standard security line. Inform the TSA officer that you have PreCheck and show your Global Entry card. The officer will direct you through the appropriate screening process.

International terminals sometimes have different security procedures than domestic terminals. If you are flying internationally, check with your airline or the airport website to confirm where PreCheck screening is available. Remember that PreCheck applies only to domestic flights, so you will use standard screening for international departures regardless of which terminal you are in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Global Entry card for PreCheck on flights to Canada or Mexico?

No. TSA PreCheck applies only to domestic U.S. flights. When you fly from the United States to Canada, Mexico, or any other country, you go through standard security screening even with your Global Entry card. However, when you return to the United States, you can use Global Entry to speed through customs and immigration.

What if the TSA officer says my card is not scanning?

Tell the officer your Known Traveler Number and provide your KTN verbally. The officer can look up your PreCheck status in the system without scanning the card. If your card is damaged or the magnetic strip is worn, request a replacement through your Global Entry account. In the meantime, your KTN works just as well.

Do I need to show my Global Entry card every time I fly?

Yes. You must show your Global Entry card or provide your KTN at every security checkpoint to receive PreCheck screening. TSA does not automatically know you have PreCheck unless you present proof. If you forget your card and do not provide your KTN, you will go through standard security screening.

Can my family members use my Global Entry card for PreCheck?

No. Your Global Entry card is for your use only. Each family member needs their own Global Entry membership to receive PreCheck benefits. Children under 16 can be added to a parent's account at a reduced cost, and they receive their own card and KTN.

Will PreCheck make me miss my flight if the line is unexpectedly long?

PreCheck lanes are typically much shorter than standard security lines, but wait times vary by airport, time of day, and season. During peak travel times, even PreCheck lines can be busy. Arrive at the airport with the same amount of time you normally would — PreCheck is a convenience, not a may provide of speed.