TSA Pre-Check, and Global Entry, what does each mean and why should I apply?

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​Traveling for most people is fun, but for some, the hassle of the airport makes it, not the best experience.  A way to make the airport process easier is to have enrolled in TSA Pre-Check or Global Entry.  Both of these programs offer a faster airport check-in.

​TSA Pre-check provides low-risk travelers ease through airport security checkpoints with the following benefits:
 
•    No need to remove your Shoes
•    No need to take out your Liquids and gels from your carry-on
•    Can leave your Laptop in your bag
•    Can keep on a Light outerwear/jacket
•    No need to remove Belts

The TSA Pre-check is ideal for anyone traveling within the United States.  Most of the major airport offer a separate security check in line for Pre-Check travelers.  As the popularity of TSA Pre-Check gets wider, the lines in the busiest airports across the country will become slower and longer when it is peak travel time.  As of October, the TSA reported that 97% of TSA Pre-Check Travelers waited less than 5 minutes t the security checkpoints.  For more information on TSA Pre-Check visit www.tsa.gov.  

The best option for travelers that travel to international destinations is to apply for Global Entry which provides you with a Known Traveler Number that is used for the TSA Pre-Check when traveling within the United States.  The Global Entry program is a US Customs and Border Patrol program that offers expedited screening procedures when arriving back into the United States.   When a traveler enters the US from another country, travelers check into a Global Entry Kiosk, where they scan their passport and fingerprints and complete the customs declaration.  The Kiosk supplies the traveler with the transaction receipt that is provided to the immigration representative upon check out.  The procedure is fast and efficient without the need to stand in the long line at customs and immigration.   The US Customs and Border Patrol are expanding the Kiosks throughout the United States for faster reentry into the US.   
​I am a Global Entry program member and it is a quick and efficient process when coming back home from an international destination.  When you look at the long line of your fellow travelers that just deplaned, you will be very happy you are in the fast lane.  For more information or to apply, click here.