Get Global Trusted Traveler Right
Before you apply, clarify which Trusted Traveler Program fits your itinerary. Global Entry offers expedited customs clearance upon re-entering the U.S., while TSA PreCheck focuses on domestic security lanes. If you travel internationally, Global Entry is the superior choice because it includes TSA PreCheck benefits. SENTRI and NEXUS serve specific land-border crossings with Canada and Mexico, so select the program that matches your primary entry point.
You will need a valid passport and a government-issued photo ID. Non-U.S. citizens must provide proof of legal permanent residence or valid visa status. The application requires a non-refundable fee—$100 for Global Entry and $85 for TSA PreCheck. This fee covers a background check and a mandatory in-person interview. Plan for the interview to take 10–15 minutes, but wait times for slots can stretch months, so apply early.
Your Known Traveler Number (KTN) is the key to unlocking expedited processing. Once approved, add this number to every airline reservation. Without it, the system cannot verify your status at the checkpoint. You can find your KTN in your CBP Trusted Traveler Programs account or on your approval letter. Keep this number handy for all future bookings to ensure seamless processing at security and customs.
Work through the steps
Getting your Trusted Traveler status starts with a single online application. You choose the program that fits your travel habits, pay the fee, and schedule an interview. Once approved, your KTN activates automatically. Use this number on every flight booking to ensure your benefits apply.
1. Choose the right program
Global Entry covers international arrivals and includes TSA PreCheck. If you only fly domestically, TSA PreCheck is the simpler, cheaper option. SENTRI and NEXUS serve specific border crossings. Pick the one that matches your primary route.
2. Create your online account
Visit the Trusted Traveler Programs website to start your application. You will need a valid passport or permanent resident card. Fill in every field carefully; typos in your name or birth date can delay approval or cause denial at the border.
Pay the non-refundable application fee. Global Entry costs $100, while TSA PreCheck is $78. The fee covers a five-year membership. Submitting the application triggers the background check process immediately.
After submission, you can book an interview slot. Wait times vary by enrollment center. If you are in a hurry, look for "conditional approval" slots, which sometimes open up when applicants drop out. You must bring your passport and one other ID to this meeting.
Bring your documents to the center. An officer will verify your identity and take your photo. For Global Entry, you may complete a brief kiosk check-in at the airport instead of a full booth interview upon your first return flight.
Once approved, log in to your Trusted Traveler account to find your Known Traveler Number. Add this number to your airline profile and every new reservation. The TSA PreCheck or Global Entry indicator should appear on your boarding pass within 72 hours of booking.
Fix common mistakes that delay border clearance
Trusted traveler programs like Global Entry and TSA PreCheck offer significant time savings, but they require precise data entry. A single error in your application can trigger a manual review, costing you days or weeks of delays. Even after approval, travelers often make operational errors at the airport that negate the benefits of their status.
The most frequent application error is mismatched personal data. Your KTN must match the name on your passport exactly, including middle names and suffixes. If your passport has a middle name that is missing from your airline reservation, the system will not recognize your status. Always double-check the spelling on your booking against your government ID before you leave for the airport.
Another common mistake is assuming your status is automatic. Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are separate programs with different enrollment processes. While Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, you must still enter your KTN into every airline reservation. If you book through a third-party site that does not pass the KTN to the airline, you will not see the PreCheck indicator on your boarding pass.
At the airport, many travelers forget to present their physical trusted traveler card or passport when prompted. Officers need to verify your identity against your electronic record. If you rely solely on a digital copy of your membership, you may be denied expedited access. Keep your physical card in your wallet at all times.
Global trusted traveler: what to check next
Before committing to a trusted traveler program, it helps to understand the specific trade-offs between domestic and international benefits, as well as the administrative overhead involved.
Which is better: TSA PreCheck or Global Entry?
TSA PreCheck ($78.50 for 5 years) is strictly for domestic security screening, letting you keep shoes and laptops in your bag. Global Entry ($100 for 5 years) includes TSA PreCheck and adds expedited customs clearance when entering the U.S. For most frequent travelers, Global Entry offers better value since it covers both scenarios.
What is trusted traveler Global Entry?
Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to use automated kiosks for expedited clearance upon arrival from international flights. It reduces wait times at primary inspection by replacing the traditional officer interview with a self-service kiosk process, provided your fingerprints and photo are already on file.
How do I find out what my KTN number is?
Your KTN is assigned after your application is approved. You can find it in the confirmation email from the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website or by logging into your account at ttp.dhs.gov. It is also printed on your Global Entry card, though the card itself is not required for entry.
What is the downside of Global Entry?
The main drawbacks are the upfront cost, the requirement for an in-person interview, and the risk of denial. Unlike TSA PreCheck, which can sometimes be granted automatically, Global Entry requires a formal CBP interview at an enrollment center, which can be difficult to schedule in high-traffic areas. Additionally, any criminal history or customs violation can result in a permanent ban from the program.
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