Yahoo Finance Travel Easier With TSA PreCheck or Global Entry
Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website.
Nothing puts a damper to the start of a family vacation as much as a long security line at the airport. It’s enough to make you forget, at least for awhile, about sunsets at the beach and the kids playing around the pool.
While there are new systems being tested that could eventually speed up the lines—including the use of computed tomography three-dimensional bag screening and biometric fingerprint identification—airlines say that for now, one way to ease the angst is to arrive 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one.
George Hobica, the president of travel site Airfarewatchdog.com, says there’s a better way: Dig into your wallet and pay for one of two security-clearance programs. That is supposed to let you clear security in about 5 minutes, according to the TSA and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
One option is to apply for TSA PreCheck. If you only travel within the U.S., TSA PreCheck lets you get through the security line faster than waiting in the regular line. It costs $85 for a five-year membership and you can only apply if you are a U.S. citizen and lawful permanent resident. To start the application process, fill out an online application and then visit an enrollment center. You’ll need proof of identity and citizenship status, such as an enhanced driver’s license or a passport
The other option, if you travel internationally or plan to make a trip outside the U.S. within the next five years, is to sign up for Global Entry. Global Entry includes PreCheck and it also provides expedited service through U.S. customs and immigration. The fee is $100 and you can apply if you are a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident or a citizen of a number of countries including the U.K., Germany, the Netherlands, Panama, South Korea and Mexico. Like PreCheck, you start the application process online and then visit an enrollment center for an interview. You’ll need a passport or a permanent resident card for proof of identity.
Both TSA PreCheck and Global Entry screen by checking your background and taking fingerprints. Once approved, you can skip the main security checkpoint at the airport and enter a separate, expedited line. An added bonus: You can keep your shoes on and your laptops and devices in your bags.
Before paying the fee for either service, check with your credit card issuer to see if your card already covers the cost. Both Citi Prestige and the American Express Platinum Card, for instance, cover the fee. Citi Prestige, though, charges an annual membership fee of $450. The American Express Platinum Card charges an annual fee of $550.
More from Consumer Reports:
Top pick tires for 2016
Best used cars for $25,000 and less
7 best mattresses for couples
Copyright © 2006-2017 Consumer Reports, Inc.
