Does Global Entry Include TSA PreCheck?
7 Min Read | Published: May 23, 2025
This article contains general information and is not intended to provide information that is specific to American Express products and services. Similar products and services offered by different companies will have different features and you should always read about product details before acquiring any financial product.
Find out whether Global Entry membership includes TSA PreCheck benefits, how to apply, how much each program costs, and the key differences between the two.
At-A-Glance
- Global Entry and TSA PreCheck® are two Trusted Traveler Programs offered by the Department of Homeland Security.
- Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, but the reverse is not true.
- Some credit cards, including the Platinum Card by American Express, issue a statement credit when a Card Member pays for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck using the Card.
Global Entry and TSA PreCheck® are both Trusted Traveler Programs through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), but their benefits differ. TSA PreCheck is a benefit for domestic travelers as it provides expedited security screening benefits for flights that are taking off from U.S. Airports. Global Entry supports passengers entering the U.S. through expedited U.S. customs screening. Here’s what you need to know about how Global Entry and TSA PreCheck work and how they differ.
Does Global Entry Include TSA PreCheck?
Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits. So, if you have Global Entry, you don’t need to also apply for TSA PreCheck.1
However, simply having TSA PreCheck does not include Global Entry. You’ll need to apply for the Global Entry program separately.
Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck
There are a number of key differences between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, as outlined in the table below.
| Global Entry | TSA PreCheck |
|---|---|
| $120 for five years (non-refundable, even if the application is denied)2 | $76.75 - $85, depending on provider3 |
| Application fees may be covered by some credit cards. | Application fees may be covered by some credit cards. |
| Expedited U.S. customs screening for international air travelers entering the U.S. | Expedited security screening benefits for flights departing from U.S. airports. |
| May be best for travelers who fly internationally four or more times a year. | May be best for travelers who take less than four international trips a year. |
Credit Cards That Offer Global Entry or TSA PreCheck
There are several credit cards that provide reimbursement or a statement credit for either Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. Here’s a look at some of those Cards and the additional benefits you may receive as a Card Member:
The Platinum Card®
The Platinum Card offers over $1,500 in value in statement credits, including a statement credit for either Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.4
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve
The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card offers benefits for those who frequently fly Delta, as well as a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck statement credit.5
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant®
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card can elevate your travel and dining experience at hotels while offering a number of benefits along the way, including a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck statement credit.6
How to Apply for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck
If you’re a frequent flyer looking to expedite your airport travel, here’s what you need to know about applying for the programs.
Applying for TSA PreCheck
Follow these simple steps to apply for TSA PreCheck:
- Select from several enrollment providers, choosing an option that has a physical location nearby.
- Complete the online application in as little as five minutes.
- Go in person to your enrollment provider’s office to complete your application by undergoing fingerprinting, document and photo capture, and payment.
- If approved, you’ll receive your Known Traveler Number (KTN), which you can then use when you book upcoming flights to save time in security.
According to the TSA, most applicants receive notice of approval within 3-5 days, but some can take up to 60 days.7
Did you know?
The TSA PreCheck program surpassed 20 million members in 2024. Members who use TSA PreCheck lanes benefit from wait times that are typically under 10 minutes, can wear their shoes, belts, and light jackets through screening, and aren’t required to remove laptops or liquids from carry-on bags.8
Applying for Global Entry
Before applying for Global Entry, it’s important that you check the eligibility criteria, especially if you’re a non-U.S. resident. You’ll also want to compare Global Entry vs. SENTRI and similar programs to see what’s the most appropriate choice for your travel needs. If you’re eligible, follow these steps to apply.
- Create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account through the Department of Homeland Security.
- Log into your account to complete the application and submit the $120 non-refundable fee. Customs and Border Protection will review your application and offer conditional approval if you’re cleared for the next step.
- Schedule an interview at the nearest Global Entry Enrollment Center.
- During your interview, you’ll provide your passport and driver’s license or other identification card. Your application will be processed after the interview, and you’ll receive an approval decision.
According to Customs and Border Protection, 80% of applications are approved within 2 weeks, while some can take up to 12 months or longer to be processed.9
Frequently Asked Questions
There are potential downsides to Global Entry, including the non-refundable application fee and the interview and background check process. However, for frequent international travelers, expedited customs screening can be worth it.
Since Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, you don’t need to renew TSA PreCheck if you have an active Global Entry membership.
While you may not be able to get TSA PreCheck free, you can receive reimbursement or statement credit when you pay using certain credit cards. Check the terms on your credit card to see how long it takes to receive reimbursement and if it will be applied as a statement credit.
The Takeaway
Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, so if you’re a traveler with Global Entry, you can also benefit from expedited security screening on domestic flights. When deciding between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, it’s important to consider the number of international trips you take each year. Then, consider paying for your application using a credit card that offers reimbursement for application fees.
1 “What is the difference between Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® and the other Trusted Traveler programs?,” Transportation Security Administration
2,9 “How to Apply for Global Entry,” U.S. Customs and Border Protection
3 “TSA PreCheck®,” Transportation Security Administration
4 For more on Rates and Fees for The Platinum Card, click here.
5 For more on Rates and Fees for the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card, click here.
6 For more on Rates and Fees for the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card, click here.
7 “TSA PreCheck® FAQ,” Transportation Security Administration
8 “TSA PreCheck® reaches milestone with 20 million members,” Transportation Security Administration
Brooke Joly is a writer on a mission to unravel the mysteries of personal finance and make them accessible to the everyday reader. When she’s not behind the keyboard, you can find her enjoying the outdoors in Charleston, SC.
All Credit Intel content is written by freelance authors and commissioned and paid for by American Express.
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