TSA PreCheck Vs. Global Entry: What's The Better Choice?

Tired of long airport lines? TSA PreCheck and Global Entry both expedite travel, but they serve different purposes. If you're unsure which one fits your routine better, this guide breaks down the differences to help you make an informed decision, based on how and where you travel most often.

Understanding The Basics: What Do These Programs Do?

Let's start simple. TSA PreCheck is designed to make security screening faster at U.S. airports. You can keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on. Laptops and liquids should remain in your bag. The lines are usually much shorter and move faster. It's available at more than 200 airports with over 90 participating airlines.

Global Entry, on the other hand, is a more extensive program. It includes all the benefits of TSA PreCheck, but also speeds up customs and immigration for international travellers returning to the U.S. Instead of filling out paper forms and waiting in long customs lines, Global Entry users go to a kiosk, scan their passport and fingerprints, and proceed quickly.

At a glance, Global Entry offers more — but that doesn't mean it's the right choice for everyone.

Comparing Costs, Validity, And Approval Time

Cost is the first deciding factor for many travellers. TSA PreCheck costs $78 and is valid for five years. Global Entry is $100 and is valid for five years. That's only a $22 difference. Since Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, it appears to be a better deal.

However, there's a catch: Global Entry has a more stringent approval process. The application requires an in-person interview at select enrollment centres, which are often located near major international airports. The wait time for interviews can stretch to weeks or even months, especially in busy seasons.

TSA PreCheck's process is usually faster. It also requires an in-person appointment, but there are more enrollment centres, including some pop-up locations in shopping centres and Staples stores. The appointment is quick, and many applicants get approved within a few days.

So, if you're planning an international trip and don't mind the longer wait, Global Entry is a stronger long-term option. If you need to get through security quickly for a domestic flight, TSA PreCheck helps you do so faster.

TSA Precheck Vs Global Entry: Which One Saves More Time?

Here's the practical part: time saved. If you only fly within the U.S., Global Entry's international perks don't do much for you. TSA PreCheck lines are significantly shorter than regular security lines, and you don't have to unpack your electronics or follow the tedious rules for liquids. That's a massive relief if you're flying from a busy hub like LAX, JFK, or O'Hare.

But if you ever fly internationally, Global Entry becomes a game-changer. Getting off a long-haul flight is already exhausting. With Global Entry, you skip the immigration line entirely. While other passengers are still in line, you could already be grabbing your luggage or heading home.

Think of it this way: TSA PreCheck speeds up your departure, while Global Entry handles your return. Depending on how often you do either, one program will outweigh the other.

Who Should Get TSA Precheck?

TSA PreCheck is ideal for domestic flyers who want to avoid Stress and expedite their passage through U.S. airport security. If you fly even two or three times a year, the time savings add up. It's beneficial for business travellers, parents with kids, and anyone who hates repacking their laptop every time they fly.

You'll often spend less than 5 minutes in line at most airports. Some regular PreCheck users report that they arrive at the airport just an hour before departure — and still have time to grab a cup of coffee.

Another point to consider: many travel-focused credit cards cover the application fee for TSA PreCheck. That brings your actual cost to zero, making it a no-brainer for occasional domestic travellers.

Who Should Get Global Entry?

If your passport gets regular stamps, Global Entry is the clear winner. Even if you take just one or two international trips a year, the convenience of skipping customs can save a lot of time and frustration.

It’s especially worth it if you return to the U.S. through large international airports like Atlanta, New York, or Miami — these often have long wait times at passport control. A Global Entry user might clear customs in 3 minutes, while others are stuck for 30 minutes or more.

Another big plus: many premium travel credit cards also reimburse the Global Entry fee. So if your card covers it, there's no reason not to opt for the more comprehensive option.

Still, there's one thing to keep in mind: if your nearest enrollment centre is hours away or all appointment slots are booked, you might be stuck waiting weeks just for the interview.

Family Travel: What About Kids?

This is where it gets a bit tricky. TSA PreCheck allows kids 12 and under to use the lane with a parent or guardian who has PreCheck. You don’t need to apply separately for them.

Global Entry doesn't work the same way. Every traveller, regardless of age, needs their own approved membership. That means applying, scheduling an interview, and being approved — even for toddlers. For families who travel internationally, the upfront hassle is higher, but long-term convenience might still make it worthwhile.

Ease Of Renewal And Membership Updates

Both programs last for five years and can be renewed online. However, the renewal timelines and processing speeds differ. TSA PreCheck renewals are often approved almost instantly if there are no changes in your record.

Global Entry renewals can take longer and may still require an in-person interview if your information has changed or your travel patterns raise flags. Some users report waiting months for re-approval, so it’s best to renew at least 6 months before your expiry date.

Making Your Choice Based On Travel Style

TSA PreCheck vs Global Entry comes down to your travel lifestyle. Frequent flyers who value speed, flexibility, and convenience should view these programs as investments in their time. One caters to local trips, the other supports global movement. Pick based on where your trips take you, and how soon you need that approval.