TSA PreCheck, Global Entry,
NEXUS, SENTRI or CLEAR+

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What Is the Difference Between TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and CLEAR+?

TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and CLEAR+ can help U.S. travelers move through airport security, customs, or border checkpoints more quickly. However, each program expedites a different part of the travel process. The best option depends on whether you primarily travel within the United States, fly internationally, or frequently cross the Canadian or Mexican border.

Learn More About US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Trusted Traveler Programs

Here is an easy breakdown of TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and CLEAR+.

1. What is TSA PreCheck?

Purpose of TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck provides expedited airport security screening for eligible travelers departing from participating U.S. airports. It can be used for domestic flights and international flights leaving the United States on participating airlines. It does not provide expedited customs or immigration processing when returning from another country.

Learn More About TSA PreCheck

Benefits of TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck is available at more than 200 airports and with more than 90 participating airlines. Members typically use dedicated screening lanes and can usually leave laptops, approved 3-1-1 liquids, and food inside their carry-on bags while keeping belts and light jackets on. Because travelers generally may now keep their shoes on at domestic TSA checkpoints, this is no longer a benefit exclusive to TSA PreCheck.

TSA PreCheck can reduce the amount of time and preparation required at airport security. However, expedited screening is not guaranteed on every trip because TSA uses unpredictable security measures. The TSA PreCheck indicator must appear on the traveler’s boarding pass to use the expedited screening lane.

Who is Eligible for TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck enrollment is available to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and lawful permanent residents. Travelers must pass a background check and complete an in-person enrollment appointment. Certain eligible members of Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI can receive TSA PreCheck benefits without purchasing a separate membership.

Best for: U.S. travelers who primarily take domestic flights
Valid for: 5 years
Cost: $76.75 to $85 for a new enrollment, depending on the authorized enrollment provider
How to enroll: Apply through TSA PreCheck, select CLEAR, IDEMIA, or Telos as the enrollment provider, and complete an in-person appointment
Estimated processing time: Most applicants receive a Known Traveler Number in 3 to 5 days, although some applications can take up to 60 days

2. What is Global Entry?

Purpose of Global Entry

Global Entry expedites U.S. customs and immigration processing for preapproved, low-risk travelers returning to the United States after international travel. It is particularly useful for U.S. travelers who take several international trips each year. Global Entry does not eliminate customs requirements, and members must still declare items and follow all U.S. entry rules.

Benefits of Global Entry

Global Entry members can use expedited processing at participating U.S. airports and certain land-border locations. The program includes TSA PreCheck eligibility, providing benefits when departing from U.S. airports and when returning from international trips. Most eligible Global Entry members do not need to purchase a separate TSA PreCheck membership.

Global Entry members may still be selected for additional screening or examination. Travelers must also maintain accurate passport and account information to continue using their benefits. The program does not guarantee faster processing at every airport or border crossing.

Who is Eligible for Global Entry?

U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents may apply for Global Entry. U.S. nationals may also be eligible under current program rules. Applicants must pass a background check and complete an interview with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Applicants of every age need their own Global Entry membership. Applicants under 18 do not pay the application fee when a parent or legal guardian is already a member or applies at the same time. A parent or legal guardian must provide consent for a minor to participate.

Best for: U.S. travelers who frequently travel internationally
Valid for: 5 years
Cost: $120
How to enroll: Apply through the Trusted Traveler Programs system, complete the background check, and attend an interview after receiving conditional approval
Estimated processing time: Most applications are reviewed within 2 weeks, but some can take 12 months or longer. Interview availability can extend the total enrollment time.

3. What is NEXUS?

Purpose of NEXUS

NEXUS expedites border processing for preapproved, low-risk travelers entering the United States and Canada. It provides benefits for eligible travel by air, land, and boat at participating locations. The program is jointly administered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Canada Border Services Agency.

Benefits of NEXUS

NEXUS members can use dedicated lanes at participating northern land-border crossings. They can also use NEXUS kiosks or eGates when entering Canada by air and Global Entry processing when entering the United States at eligible locations. Members may receive expedited marine reporting benefits when traveling between the two countries by boat.

U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents enrolled in NEXUS are eligible for TSA PreCheck benefits. This makes NEXUS a comprehensive option for eligible U.S. travelers who regularly visit Canada and also fly from U.S. airports. Travelers who rarely visit Canada are more likely to benefit from Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.

Who is Eligible for NEXUS?

U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents may apply for NEXUS. Applicants must be admissible to both the United States and Canada and pass security assessments conducted by both countries. The application process includes interviews with U.S. and Canadian border authorities.

Best for: U.S. travelers who frequently visit Canada
Valid for: 5 years
Cost: $120 for adults; applicants under 18 are free
How to enroll: Apply through the Trusted Traveler Programs system and complete the required U.S. and Canadian interview process after conditional approval
Estimated processing time: A properly completed application may be processed within 30 business days, but new applicants may encounter a significant backlog. Interview scheduling is not included in that estimate.

4. What is SENTRI?

Purpose of SENTRI

SENTRI, or Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection, expedites entry into the United States for preapproved, low-risk travelers. Its primary benefit is access to dedicated SENTRI lanes at participating southern land-border ports. It is designed for travelers who frequently enter the United States from Mexico by land.

Benefits of SENTRI

SENTRI members can use dedicated processing lanes at participating southern land-border crossings. They may also use NEXUS lanes when entering the United States from Canada by land. Eligible members can use Global Entry processing when entering the United States by air.

U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents enrolled in SENTRI are eligible for TSA PreCheck benefits. Members should enter their PASS ID in the Known Traveler Number field when booking a flight. The TSA PreCheck indicator must appear on the boarding pass to receive expedited airport screening.

Who is Eligible for SENTRI?

U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents may apply for SENTRI. Applicants must undergo a background check and attend an in-person interview with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Each traveler needs an individual membership, including children.

Applicants under 18 need consent from a parent or legal guardian. They do not pay the application fee when a parent or legal guardian is already a member or applies at the same time. Vehicle information may also need to be registered before using certain SENTRI lanes.

Best for: U.S. travelers who frequently enter the United States from Mexico by land
Valid for: 5 years
Cost: $120 for adults; qualifying applicants under 18 are free
How to enroll: Apply through the Trusted Traveler Programs system and attend an interview at a SENTRI enrollment center after conditional approval
Estimated processing time: Processing varies considerably, and applications requiring manual review may take 12 to 24 months

5. What is CLEAR+^®?

Purpose of CLEAR+

Streamline the airport security process by using biometric technology, such as fingerprint or iris scans, to verify identity. This program is run by a private company.

Benefits of CLEAR+

CLEAR+ members use designated lanes at participating U.S. airports and verify their identity through CLEAR’s face-first technology. Depending on the airport, members proceed from a CLEAR Pod or eGate to TSA baggage and physical screening. CLEAR+ may reduce the time spent waiting for a TSA officer to check identification.

CLEAR+ can be combined with TSA PreCheck. Travelers who belong to both programs can use CLEAR+ for identity verification and TSA PreCheck for expedited baggage and physical-screening procedures when both services are available. A CLEAR+ membership alone does not provide TSA PreCheck benefits.

Who is Eligible for CLEAR+?

Adults age 18 and older can enroll with an eligible, valid photo ID. Accepted documents include a REAL ID-compliant U.S. driver’s license, a qualifying state identification card, or a valid U.S. passport. Children age 17 and younger can accompany a CLEAR+ member through the CLEAR+ lane for free without enrolling.

Best for: U.S. travelers who want faster identity verification at participating airports
Valid for: An annual membership
Cost: $219 per year at the standard rate
How to enroll: Enroll through CLEAR+ or complete enrollment at a participating airport
Estimated processing time: Airport enrollment generally takes a few minutes, and members can begin using CLEAR+ after enrollment is completed

Key Differences Between TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and CLEAR+

Each program expedites a different part of the travel process. TSA PreCheck changes the airport security-screening experience, while Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI expedite specific customs or border processes. CLEAR+ verifies a traveler’s identity before TSA screening but does not replace TSA PreCheck or provide customs benefits.

TSA PreCheck: Expedited airport security screening for flights departing participating U.S. airports
Global Entry: Expedited entry into the United States after international travel, with TSA PreCheck eligibility included
NEXUS: Expedited travel between the United States and Canada by air, land, and boat at participating locations
SENTRI: Expedited entry into the United States through participating southern land-border lanes
CLEAR+: Faster biometric identity verification at participating U.S. airport security checkpoints

Scope of Benefits

TSA PreCheck focuses on airport security screening, while Global Entry focuses on U.S. customs and immigration processing after international travel. NEXUS provides additional benefits for travel between the United States and Canada, while SENTRI primarily serves travelers entering the United States from Mexico by land. CLEAR+ expedites identity verification before TSA screening and can complement TSA PreCheck.

Geographic Coverage

TSA PreCheck is available at more than 200 participating airports, while CLEAR+ operates at a smaller network of U.S. airports. Global Entry is available at major U.S. airports and certain land-border locations. NEXUS focuses on the U.S.-Canada border, while SENTRI focuses primarily on participating ports along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Application Process

TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI require government security vetting. Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI require an interview after conditional approval, while TSA PreCheck requires an in-person enrollment appointment for document verification, fingerprints, and a photograph. CLEAR+ is operated by a private company and does not use the lengthy government background-check process required by Trusted Traveler Programs.

Cost, Duration, and Approval Time for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and CLEAR+

Program	Cost	Membership Term	Typical Processing Time	Best For	Provided By
TSA PreCheck	$76.75 to $85, depending on the enrollment provider	5 years	Most applicants receive a Known Traveler Number within 3 to 5 days, but some applications take up to 60 days	U.S. travelers who primarily take domestic flights	Transportation Security Administration through authorized enrollment providers
Global Entry	$120	5 years	Most applications are reviewed within 2 weeks, but some take 12 months or longer; interview availability may add time	U.S. travelers who frequently travel internationally	U.S. Customs and Border Protection
NEXUS	$120 for adults; applicants under 18 are free	5 years	A completed application may be processed within 30 business days, but backlogs and interview availability may add time	U.S. travelers who frequently visit Canada	U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Canada Border Services Agency
SENTRI	$120 for adults; qualifying applicants under 18 are free	5 years	Processing varies; applications requiring manual review may take 12 to 24 months	U.S. travelers who frequently enter the United States from Mexico by land	U.S. Customs and Border Protection
CLEAR+	$219 per year at the standard rate	1 year	Enrollment generally takes a few minutes and benefits can be used after enrollment is completed	U.S. travelers who want faster identity verification at participating airports	CLEAR, a private company

Most U.S. travelers do not need to pay separately for TSA PreCheck if they already have Global Entry and are eligible for its TSA PreCheck benefit. CLEAR+ can provide an additional identity-verification benefit, but it does not replace TSA screening or international border processing. Travelers should confirm that their preferred airports or border crossings participate before applying.

FAQs About TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, and CLEAR+

How do I apply for TSA PreCheck?

Begin at the official TSA PreCheck website and select CLEAR, IDEMIA, or Telos as your authorized enrollment provider. Complete the online application and visit an enrollment center, where the provider will verify your documents, take your fingerprints and photograph, and collect payment. If approved, you will receive a Known Traveler Number to add to airline reservations.

How much does the TSA PreCheck cost?

As of August, 2026, a new five-year TSA PreCheck enrollment costs between $76.75 and $85, depending on the authorized provider. Renewal prices also vary by provider and by whether the renewal is completed online or in person. Check the official TSA website for current prices before paying.

How do I apply for Global Entry?

Create an account through the official Trusted Traveler Programs system, submit an application, and pay the nonrefundable fee. U.S. Customs and Border Protection will conduct a background check and issue conditional approval if the initial review is successful. You must then complete an interview at an enrollment center or through an available Enrollment on Arrival or Enrollment on Departure option.

How do I apply for NEXUS?

Apply online through the Trusted Traveler Programs system and pay the nonrefundable fee if one is required for your age. Both the United States and Canada must approve the application, and the process includes interviews with both countries’ border authorities. Interview procedures and appointment availability vary by location.

How do I apply for SENTRI?

Create a Trusted Traveler Programs account and submit a separate SENTRI application for each traveler, regardless of age. After conditional approval, schedule an interview at an available SENTRI enrollment center and bring the required identity, residency, and vehicle documents. Approval is not guaranteed, and application fees are generally nonrefundable.

Do I need an interview to enroll in CLEAR+?

CLEAR+ does not require the government background-check interview used for Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI. Enrollment involves confirming an eligible identity document and completing facial biometric enrollment online or at a participating airport. Airport enrollment generally takes only a few minutes.

What is the difference between NEXUS and Global Entry?

Global Entry primarily expedites entry into the United States after international travel. NEXUS covers eligible travel between the United States and Canada and offers benefits at participating air, land, and marine locations in both countries. NEXUS requires approval from both U.S. and Canadian authorities, so its enrollment process can be more involved.

Is NEXUS or CLEAR+ faster to obtain?

CLEAR+ is usually faster because enrollment can often be completed at a participating airport in a few minutes. NEXUS requires security reviews by both the United States and Canada, followed by an interview, and appointment backlogs may extend the process. The programs offer different benefits, so enrollment speed should not be the only consideration.

Can I use CLEAR+ and TSA PreCheck together?

Yes, travelers who belong to both programs can use CLEAR+ for identity verification and TSA PreCheck for expedited physical and baggage screening when both services are available. Your boarding pass must display the TSA PreCheck indicator to receive TSA PreCheck screening procedures. CLEAR+ membership alone does not provide TSA PreCheck benefits.

Do I need both TSA PreCheck and Global Entry?

Most eligible Global Entry members do not need a separate TSA PreCheck membership because Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck eligibility. Travelers should enter their Global Entry PASS ID as the Known Traveler Number in airline reservations. Someone who rarely travels internationally may prefer TSA PreCheck because it has a lower application fee and a simpler enrollment process.

Which program is best for most U.S. travelers?

TSA PreCheck is generally the most practical option for travelers who primarily fly within the United States. Global Entry is usually the better value for frequent international travelers because it includes TSA PreCheck eligibility. NEXUS and SENTRI are more specialized options for travelers who regularly cross the Canadian or Mexican border.

Program fees, locations, eligibility requirements, and processing times were verified in August 2026 and may change. Travelers should confirm current information on the official TSA, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Canada Border Services Agency, and CLEAR websites before applying.