As travel is now at the forefront of everyone's mind, after so long at home, it is time to chat about TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry, two trusted traveler programs. On my recent trip out west, I found TSA PreCheck® invaluable. It sure was nice to be in the short security line and not have to take off my shoes, take out my laptop, and take apart my luggage for them to review. Even if you travel only once or twice a year, either TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry is well worth the price in your time and stress level. Global Entry is more important when traveling internationally. Sadly, not all countries recognize this but for those trips where you are able to utilize it, your return journey will be much less stressful.
TSA PreCheck®
As long as you have no disqualifying offenses on your record, i.e. treason, murder, espionage, or on a terrorist list, you will be eligible for TSA PreCheck®. You will not have to take off your shoes, belt, light jacket, and will not have to remove your laptop or liquid items. You can still be subject to being searched if asked by security. The cost was $85 for 5 years. I flew from Nashville and returned from Las Vegas this past month. My TSA security line was no longer than 2 people. Sweet!!! You can apply at: https://www.tsa.gov/precheck
Once you complete the application, pay the fee, attend your interview, and all is okay, you will receive your approval along with your Known Traveler Number. This number is to be entered in your airline reservation when booking flights. So be sure to advise your travel advisor and include in any frequent flyer program information.
Global Entry
The best option for those who travel outside the United States is Global Entry at a cost of $100 for 5 years. It is very similar to TSA PreCheck®. Again, citizens of certain countries, including the United States, are eligible, provided you are deemed "low risk" and do not have any customs violations or convictions on your record. This comes in handy when returning to the United States, giving you expedited re-entry after your trip overseas. Generally, you will skip the long lines, go directly to a kiosk where you will scan your passport, do fingerprints, and answer security questions. Once you receive a printed receipt, you will hand it over to the customs agent, in a much shorter line, and be on your way. When applying for Global Entry you also receive TSA PreCheck®. You can apply at: https://www.cdp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry/how-apply. Just like the TSA PreCheck®, after your successful interview and approval, you will receive a Global Entry Card. When I need to reapply this is the option I am going with.
Please note that either option can take several months. Sometimes you get really lucky and it happens quickly but other times not so quickly. Also note, if traveling with children under 12, for using TSA PreCheck®, they can go through the expedited line with a parent who is approved. Once the child is 13 or older, they will need their own Known Traveler Number to proceed through the TSA PreCheck® line. There is no minimum age requirement for Global Entry but every member of the party must be a member of the program to benefit.
Take the time and money to invest in either TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry so you can enjoy traveling through the airport at your pace not the pace of long lines. Much more detailed information is located at https://www.tsa.gov/precheck and https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry/how-apply
Happy Travels!!! Be safe and continue to dream!
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