Get Global Entry ($120 for 5 years) if you ever fly internationally — it includes TSA PreCheck for free. Get TSA PreCheck alone ($78 for 5 years) only if you exclusively fly domestic.
If you fly more than a few times a year inside the US — or ever fly back into the US from abroad — a trusted-traveler program will pay for itself in saved time. The question is which one.
TSA PreCheck — The Basics
- Cost: $78 for 5 years ($70 renewal online).
- Benefit: Expedited security at over 200 US airports — keep your shoes, belt, and laptop in your bag.
- Eligibility: US citizens, US nationals, US lawful permanent residents.
- Enrollment: Online application + 10-minute in-person appointment (fingerprints + photo).
Global Entry — The Basics
- Cost: $120 for 5 years.
- Benefit: Expedited US customs & immigration on arrival from abroad — plus TSA PreCheck is included.
- Eligibility: US citizens, US lawful permanent residents, and citizens of certain partner countries.
- Enrollment: Online application + interview at a Global Entry enrollment center (or "Enrollment on Arrival" at many US international airports).
Which Should You Get?
| If you... | Get... |
|---|---|
| Fly internationally even once every 2–3 years | Global Entry |
| Only fly inside the US | TSA PreCheck |
| Are a non-US citizen on a US visa | TSA PreCheck (Global Entry eligibility depends on country) |
Pro Tip: Many Credit Cards Reimburse the Fee
Premium travel cards (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Capital One Venture X, several airline co-brand cards) reimburse the $78 or $120 application fee every 4–5 years as a statement credit. Effectively free.
What About CLEAR?
CLEAR ($199/year) is a separate biometric service that lets you skip the ID-check line, then merges you into either the PreCheck or standard security line. It's a complement to PreCheck/Global Entry, not a replacement.