TSA Precheck, Global Entry and Known Traveler Number – Everything You Need to Know

We recently had a great exchange on the Out the Gate Travel What’s App group chat about TSA Precheck versus Global Entry. This interesting conversation spurred me to write about these Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) and what I learned to inform other travelers (and future travelers). Additional programs include Nexus and Senti, but we will focus on the two aforementioned TTPs.

First, let’s discuss the definitions and the differences. It seems that travelers are often confused about which programs to apply for and the benefits they provide.

TSA PreCheck® Application Program is primarily for domestic travel and expedites security screenings for flights departing from 200+ U.S. airports. Enrollment providers include IDEMIA, Telos or Clear. The number will have 9-10 digits and start with TT, TE or AC (respectively) depending on which enrollment provider used. TSA PreCheck allows members to go through airport security without removing liquids, laptops, shoes, belts, or light outerwear.

Global Entry is a program that allows its members expedited U.S. customs screening when traveling internationally. It also allows you to re-enter the United States more quickly and the program includes TSA PreCheck. Global Entry refers to the Known Traveler Number (KTN) as PASSID. Once approved, you'll be able to use automated kiosks at select airports, bypassing the traditional customs lines.

A Known Traveler Number is a membership number that identifies a member of a TTP, such as Global Entry. You can find your KTN on the back of your Global Entry card, on the TSA or TTP websites. It is important to enter your number when making your reservation so that it appears on your boarding pass. If you forget to enter it, you may not receive your TTP benefits for that given trip.

A Redress Number is used to correct misidentifications that may lead to security issues for certain travelers. Redress numbers are given to individuals who were falsely identified as posing a threat to transportation security or public safety when flying. You can have both a KTN and a redress number.

NOTE: CLEAR is a private company that identifies you by scanning your eyes and fingerprints. It works in conjunction with TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, but a CLEAR membership alone does not contain TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. You have to apply for those independently, or you can bundle your membership with TSA PreCheck only. Once scanned, you are escorted to the front of either the general or TSA PreCheck airport security line, depending on whether or not you also have TSA PreCheck status. Clear also lets you cut the security line at several stadiums.

CLEAR is about $78, and $199 if bundled with TSA PreCheck. Also, airline frequent flyer programs often offer complimentary membership for CLEAR. How to get a Clear membership through airline loyalty.

Background checks are necessary for all TTPs.

A Few Differences Between the TTPs:

Global Entry includes TSA Precheck, but TSA Precheck does not include Global Entry.
Global Entry debuted in 2008, TSA has been around since 2001.
TSA PreCheck is run by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (Department of Homeland Security-DHS), while Global Entry is run by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
A KTN is a nine-digit number that identifies a member of a TTP and usually begins with 15, 98 or 99. For Global Entry members, the KTN is the Customs and Border Protection PASSID.
Global Entry members receive expedited entry into the United States (for land borders as well like Canada and Mexico). TSA PreCheck is for domestic travel use.
Global Entry is about $40 more expensive than TSA Precheck with TSA PreCheck starting at $77. Both last for five years.
41TSA PreCheck has over 600 enrollment centers (you can walk-in during business hours without an appointment), while Global Entry has over 100. Global Entry enrollment requires a valid passport and an interview.
You cannot switch or upgrade between programs. You must enroll with Global Entry as a new applicant and pay their enrollment fee.
It can take four to six months (sometimes longer) for application approval for Global Entry.
For Global Entry, you cannot book an appointment until your application is approved.
You can renew your TSA PreCheck membership anytime within six months of expiration. You can renew your Global Entry application anytime within one year of expiration. Submit your renewal before the expiration date to receive a 24-month grace period and continue using your benefits while the renewal is processed. If you apply after the expiration date, you will lose your benefits as you await approval.
Global Entry does not work in all countries, only those countries that participate in the program.
TSA PreCheck status is available for free to U.S. armed forces service members, including those serving in the Coast Guard, Reserves and National Guard.

When you check-in, be sure that your boarding pass has the TSA PreCheck symbol.

Tip: Add your KTN to your airline frequent flyer account so that it’s automatically applied to all your future reservations with that airline. Your number will be embedded in the bar code of the boarding pass.

Upon returning to the U.S., you can use an airport kiosk that is usually faster than the customs inspection lines. A new app has also launched that allows passengers arriving at participating airports to snap a selfie and bypass the kiosk as well.

Other Global Entry partner countries include Argentina, Bahrain, Brazil, Colombia, Croatia, the Dominican Republic, Germany, India, Mexico, the Netherlands, Panama, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom.

Eligibility for Global Entry:

U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, and select foreign nationals are eligible to apply for Global Entry. Mexican nationals and citizens of Argentina, India, Colombia, United Kingdom, Germany, Panama, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland and Taiwan are eligible for membership.

FACT: As of October 2024, 99% of TSA PreCheck passengers waited less than 10 minutes in line, according to the TSA.

Credit Cards to Cover Application Fee:

Many credit cards reimburse you for the application fee for TTPs. These are usually issued as a statement credit that can be used once every few years to cover the cost of reapplication. Here is a list of the best credit cards that pay for TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry.

Kids under 18 are free of charge with a parent member.

Steps to Take to Apply for Global Entry:

Submit an application
Wait for application approval
Book an appointment
Attend Interview
Wait for approval
Government issues your KTN

Tip: Book your appointment at an airport location mid-morning Tuesday to Thursday.

You can also complete your interview after an international flight before you leave the airport if your application has been approved. This is called Enrollment on Arrival (EoA). There are also EoA centers at international airports in Aruba, Bermuda, Canada, Ireland, the Bahamas and UAE with limited hours.

Background checks review your record as far back as 20 years. If you have kept your record clean for the past ten years, then you should be approved for Global Entry membership.

Note: 80% of applications are approved within 2 weeks, but some can take up to 12 months.

Reasons for Denial:

Here are some possible reasons you may be denied for Global Entry approval:

From a history of undeclared items or trying to bypass airport security
DUI conviction
Disrespect from the interviewer
Lying about the declared information in your application
A history of unfavorable information from other governments

You will receive a letter explaining why you have been denied. Fees are non-refundable even if your application is denied.