Skip The Security Lines? What??

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Skipping the security lines at the airport is no longer a dream to be hoped for.  It is a reality and it’s easier than you might think!  Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are two ways you can put the long security lines behind you and decrease the stress in your travels.

The Benefits:  Once approved for TSA PreCheck you can keep your shoes on, leave your liquids in your bag, and keep your laptop stored.  In most airports there is a separate line and the wait is significantly shorter.  If you only want the TSA PreCheck there is a fee of $85.00.  A great deal considering it lasts for 5 years.  One side benefit is the card works as a second form of federal identification.

How It Works:  The process of getting the TSA PreCheck is rather simple.  You will need your passport in hand when you fill out the form.  They will want to know every country you have entered in the past 5 years.  You will need to answer some questions and submit the form.  As long as you haven’t committed any crimes or immigration limitations it’s quite simple to get approved.  Once you have been approved you will have to schedule an appointment for an interview.  The interview lasts only about 15 minutes and confirms all the information you submitted on-line.  You will receive a card in the mail a two weeks following the interview.  Most of the time you will not need the card but rather the Known Traveler ID number in the top left hand corner.  Be certain to enter this number whenever booking a flight.  Without that number on your boarding pass you can’t use the TSA PreCheck Line, thus wasting your efforts.

Why Use Global Entry:  Global Entry is the international version of the TSA PreCheck.  If you apply for Global Entry you qualify for TSA PreCheck and the fee for Global Entry is $100.00 for 5 years.  Basically for $15.00 more you get the benefits of both.  Global Entry allows you to skip most of the hassles of going through customs upon returning from an international trip.  Even if you only travel internationally on an occasional basis it is well worth your time and money to get Global Entry.  The procedure is the same for both TSA PreCheck and Global Entry.

Want more detail?  Here is a great article outlining the entire process:  http://www.travelandleisure.com/articles/how-to-get-global-entry-tsa-precheck