Enhanced TSA Perks for Military Personnel: Complimentary TSA PreCheck Program
TSA PreCheck and Global Entry: Free for Active-Duty Military Members
Active-duty military members can now enjoy the benefits of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry at no cost, as part of a policy to honor uniformed service members. Here's what you need to know about these programs.
TSA PreCheck: A Speedier Airport Security Experience
TSA PreCheck is a program administered by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that allows eligible travellers to speed through airport security. With TSA PreCheck, service members can keep their shoes on, leave their laptops in their bags, and keep liquids in their luggage without having to worry about digging them out.
The line for TSA PreCheck is usually much shorter and proceeds more quickly than regular security. This program is available at 200+ airports and 85+ participating airlines, making it a must-have for the savvy airport traveller, especially for travellers with kids under 12.
Since spring 2023, children 17 and under who are flying on the same reservation as a TSA-approved adult may also use the TSA PreCheck line.
How to Get TSA PreCheck as an Active-Duty Military Member
To get TSA PreCheck, active-duty military members should submit their application, confirm their active-duty status with their military ID, and they will receive TSA PreCheck without paying the enrollment fee, along with access to expedited screening lanes at many airports.
The process involves applying through the TSA PreCheck application process as usual, either online or in person at an enrollment center. Service members will need to provide their military identification during the application process. They will then attend a TSA appointment where biometric data and background checks are conducted.
Global Entry: A Faster Customs Experience
Global Entry is a program offered by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that allows travellers returning from abroad to speed through customs instead of having to wait in lines. With Global Entry, travellers can use automated kiosks to complete their customs declaration and be on their way.
Global Entry comes with the added benefit of TSA PreCheck.
How to Get Global Entry
To get Global Entry, you'll first need to create a Trusted Traveler Program account via the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) website, complete the application for Global Entry, and go to an appointment to complete enrollment.
Some credit cards offer a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit. These credits can be used to get Global Entry (and thus TSA PreCheck) for free. The Platinum Card from American Express offers a Global Entry credit of up to $120, while the Chase Sapphire Reserve offers a TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or NEXUS credit.
Other Benefits for Military Members
As a military member, there are many benefits to take advantage of, especially when flying. In addition to TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, military members can also enjoy easy airport access with the USO airport lounge.
Global Entry membership is good for 5 years, after which you'll need to renew. However, it's important to note that once you've received that DD214, veterans are no longer eligible to use the TSA PreCheck for U.S. Armed Forces.
For full enrollment details and eligibility confirmation, military members should visit TSA’s official military TSA PreCheck page at www.tsa.gov/military or contact the TSA directly.
For travellers waiting for their Global Entry membership to be approved, the CBP's Mobile Passport Control app is a good option. This free application offered by Customs and Border Protection allows travellers to fill out their personal information prior to passport control, bypassing the snaking lines of folks waiting for kiosks.
In summary, active-duty military members should submit their TSA PreCheck application, confirm their active-duty status with military ID, and they will receive TSA PreCheck without paying the enrollment fee, along with access to expedited screening lanes at many airports. Global Entry membership is also available to military members, but it's not automatically granted and is not free. To learn more about Global Entry and how to apply, visit the CBP's website.
- Active-duty military members can utilize TSA PreCheck and Global Entry to speed through airport security and customs, gaining benefits such as keeping shoes on, leaving laptops in bags, and bypassing long lines.
- For savvy travelers, enrolling in TSA PreCheck (free for active-duty military) and Global Entry (available for military members with an application and fee) offers a more efficient and relaxed airport experience.
- Outside of airport travel, military members can also access the USO airport lounge for easy airport access, and for those waiting for Global Entry approval, the CBP's Mobile Passport Control app can help bypass lines at passport control.