Known Traveler Trusted Traveler
Known Traveler Trusted Traveler

Are you tired of long waits at airport security or border crossings? Do you wish there was a way to save time and breeze through these processes? Look no further! With Trusted Traveler Programs offered by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and private companies like Clear, you can expedite your journey and travel like a pro. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the details of each program, the benefits, and help you decide which one is the perfect fit for your travel style and needs.  We’ll also talk about how you might be able to get these benefits for free.

1. TSA PreCheck: The Speedy Solution for Domestic Travelers

What is TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck is an expedited security screening program for travelers flying from US airports for domestic or international travel. Members can enjoy a separate, faster security line at the airport, keeping their shoes, light jackets, belts, and liquids in their bags, and laptops in their cases.

Eligibility

U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and lawful permanent residents are eligible for TSA PreCheck.

How It Works

With TSA PreCheck, you’ll gain access to a separate security line at participating airports. Show your boarding pass and identification, and you’re good to go – no need to remove your shoes, belt, light jacket, laptop, or liquids (provided they meet the 3.4-ounce limit and are stored in a quart-sized, transparent bag).  If you do plan on any international travel you may want to look into Global Entry as the fee for Global Entry includes TSA Precheck, for only a little bit more money you get both although the interview process can be a little more tricky to schedule and complete. 

Sign-Up Process

  1. Fill out the online application.
  2. If your application is conditionally approved, visit a TSA PreCheck airport enrollment center to provide documentation for a background check and have your fingerprints taken. You can schedule an appointment or walk in.
  3. Pay the non-refundable $85 fee.
  4. Expect written notification within two to three weeks after your appointment. (Even post covid we’ve seen that 

Availability

TSA PreCheck is available at over 200 airports in the United States. Use the TSA PreCheck schedule to check availability at your chosen airport.

2. Global Entry: Your Passport to Expedited International Travel (Includes TSA Precheck)

What is Global Entry?

Global Entry is a program that speeds up the customs clearance process for pre-approved travelers entering the United States. Operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, it allows members to skip the customs line and use a designated Global Entry kiosk at over 75 airports.

Eligibility

U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, and citizens of certain other countries can apply for Global Entry. Children can also apply with parental permission. All applicants must pass a rigorous background check and in-person interview.

How Global Entry Works

Upon arrival in the U.S., head to a Global Entry kiosk, scan your fingerprints, passport, or U.S. permanent resident card, and complete a customs declaration. Receive a receipt and proceed to baggage claim.  As an added bonus, with Global Entry you automatically also receive TSA precheck for domestic travel.

Sign-Up Process

  1. Create a Trusted Traveler Programs account, complete the application, and pay the $100 non-refundable fee for a 5-year membership.
  2. Once conditionally approved, schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center.
  3. Bring valid passport(s) and one other form of identification. Lawful permanent residents must have a machine-readable permanent resident card.

3. NEXUS: The Ultimate Choice for Frequent U.S.-Canada Travelers

What is NEXUS?

NEXUS is a program that offers expedited processing for pre-screened travelers when entering the United States and Canada by air, land, or sea. Members are granted a radio frequency identification (RFID) card to use when crossing borders.

Eligibility

U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, Canadian citizens, Canadian lawful permanent residents, and Mexican nationals who are members of Mexico’s trusted traveler program, Viajero Confiable, may apply for NEXUS.

How NEXUS Works

When driving across the border, use the designated NEXUS lane. For air travel into Canada, insert your card into the NEXUS kiosk and scan your irises. When flying into the United States, use the Global Entry kiosks. NEXUS membership also grants access to TSA PreCheck benefits.

Sign-Up Process

  1. Complete the application on the Trusted Traveler Programs page and pay the $50 non-refundable fee (no fee for children).
  2. After receiving conditional approval, schedule an interview at a NEXUS enrollment center. Both the United States and Canada will assess your risk level.
  3. Have your iris scanned at a designated Canadian airport or enrollment center to use NEXUS kiosks for entering Canada. The NEXUS membership is valid for 5 years.

4. SENTRI: The Border-Crossing Savior for Regular U.S.-Mexico Travelers

What is SENTRI?

SENTRI is a trusted traveler program that offers expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers when entering the United States from Mexico or Canada. Members can use dedicated processing lanes at land border crossings and Global Entry kiosks for air travel.

Eligibility

There are no citizenship or age requirements for SENTRI, but minors must have parental consent.

How SENTRI Works

SENTRI members can use dedicated processing lanes when crossing the Mexican border by land, the NEXUS lane when entering the United States from Canada by land, and Global Entry kiosks when entering the United States by air. An RFID-enabled SENTRI card automatically displays your information to Border Patrol officers when crossing. SENTRI membership also includes TSA PreCheck access.

Sign-Up Process

  1. Complete the application on the Trusted Traveler Programs page and pay the non-refundable $122.25 fee (may be less per person for families with children).
  2. After conditional approval, schedule an interview at a SENTRI Enrollment Center.
  3. Bring valid passport(s), one other form of identification, vehicle registration, and proof of U.S. auto insurance. Lawful permanent residents must present their permanent resident card.

5. CLEAR: The Private Identity-Verification Shortcut

What is CLEAR?

CLEAR is a private identity-verification service that enables members to quickly move through security at over 50 airports, stadiums, and other venues in the United States.

Eligibility

U.S. residents aged 18 and older with a valid photo ID are eligible. Children can use CLEAR for free when accompanied by an adult member.

How CLEAR Works

Approach the designated CLEAR lane, where a staffer will help you scan your boarding pass and confirm your identity with your fingerprints or irises. Proceed directly to the physical screening process. If you have both TSA PreCheck and CLEAR, your security experience will be expedited even further.

Sign-Up Process

You can sign up at an airport kiosk or begin the process online and complete it at the airport. Verify your identity and provide a valid photo ID (U.S. driver’s license, passport, passport card, U.S.-issued Permanent Resident Card, state-issued ID, or U.S. military ID). Your fingerprints and iris scan will be added to your account. CLEAR costs $15 per month.

6. Mobile Passport Control (MPC) 

Mobile Passport Control (MPC) is a FREE app that allows eligible travelers to submit their passport and customs declaration information through their smartphone or other mobile device before arriving at a U.S. port of entry. This streamlines the traveler’s entry process into the United States by reducing passport control inspection time and overall wait time.

To use MPC, travelers must:

  • Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
  • Have a valid passport
  • Be traveling to the United States from a participating country
  • Have a smartphone or other mobile device that can connect to the internet

Once the traveler has submitted their information through the app, they will receive a Mobile Passport Control (MPC) barcode. When they arrive at the port of entry, they can proceed to the MPC lane and show their passport and MPC barcode to a CBP officer. The CBP officer will scan the barcode and complete the inspection.

MPC offers several benefits, including:

  • Shorter wait times
  • More efficient processing
  • Less congestion
  • The ability to use a dedicated MPC lane

However, there are also some potential drawbacks to using MPC, including:

  • The app may not be available in all countries
  • The app may not be compatible with all mobile devices
  • The app may not be available in all languages

Overall, MPC is a convenient and efficient way to enter the United States. If you are eligible to use MPC, I encourage you to give it a try.

How to get Reimbursed for a Known Traveler Program

There are many credit cards that reimburse card holders for signing up for known traveler programs, such as TSA PreCheck and Global Entry. Some of the most popular cards that offer this benefit include:

  • Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Chase Sapphire Reserve® credit cardOpens in a new windowChase Credit Cards – Chase BankChase Sapphire Reserve® credit card

  • The Platinum Card® from American Express

Platinum Card® from American Express credit cardOpens in a new windowForbesPlatinum Card® from American Express credit card

  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit CardOpens in a new windowCapital OneCapital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

  • Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

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  • Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard credit cardOpens in a new windowCiti® / AAdvantage – American AirlinesCiti® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard credit card

  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express CardOpens in a new windowAmerican ExpressDelta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

  • HSBC Premier World Mastercard Credit Card

HSBC Premier World Mastercard Credit CardOpens in a new windowInvestopediaHSBC Premier World Mastercard Credit Card

  • IHG® Rewards Premier Credit Card

IHG® Rewards Premier Credit CardOpens in a new windowChase Credit Cards – Chase BankIHG® Rewards Premier Credit Card

  • Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® CardOpens in a new windowAmerican ExpressMarriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

These cards typically offer a statement credit of up to $100 every four years to cover the cost of the application fee. In addition to reimbursing card holders for known traveler programs, these cards also offer other travel benefits, such as travel rewards, airport lounge access, and travel insurance.

It is important to note that not all credit cards that offer a statement credit for known traveler programs are created equal. Some cards have higher annual fees than others, and some cards offer more travel benefits than others. It is important to compare different cards before choosing one that is right for you.

Making the Final Decision: Which Trusted Traveler Program is Right for You?

Now that you’re familiar with the various Trusted Traveler Programs, it’s time to choose the one that best suits your travel habits and needs. Bon Voyage!

Trusted Traveler Programs: Choosing the One for You