You’re standing in yet another endless airport security line, watching the clock tick away precious minutes before your flight. Sound familiar? If you’ve ever wondered whether those expedited security screening programs are worth the investment, you’re not alone. Millions of travelers face the same dilemma every year: TSA PreCheck or Global Entry?
The truth is, both programs can dramatically cut your airport wait times, but choosing the right one depends on your travel habits, budget, and specific needs. Let’s dive into the real-world differences between these trusted traveler programs and see which one actually saves you more time at busy airports like JFK and LAX.
Understanding the Basics: TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry
Before we get into the nitty-gritty details, let’s establish what each program actually does.
What is TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck® provides expedited security screening benefits for flights departing from U.S. Airports. When you have TSA PreCheck, you get to use dedicated security lanes that are typically shorter and move faster than regular lines.
Here’s what makes TSA PreCheck convenient:
- Keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on
- Leave laptops and liquids in your carry-on bag
- Access to 200+ airports nationwide
- Valid for five years after approval
What is Global Entry?
Global Entry provides expedited U.S. customs screening for international air travelers when entering the United States. Global Entry members also receive TSA PreCheck® benefits as part of their membership.
The key advantages of Global Entry include:
- All TSA PreCheck benefits for domestic flights
- Expedited customs processing when returning from international trips
- Access to dedicated Global Entry kiosks at major airports
- Works at 77+ airports worldwide’
The Big Question: Do I Need Global Entry for Domestic Flights?
This is probably the most common question frequent domestic travelers ask. The short answer? Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, but TSA PreCheck does not include Global Entry.
If you’re primarily flying within the United States, TSA PreCheck alone will handle your domestic flight security needs perfectly. However, While Global Entry is more expensive, it’s the better choice for international travelers.
Think of it this way: Global Entry is like getting a premium package that includes everything TSA PreCheck offers, plus international benefits. So even for domestic flights, Global Entry holders get the same fast-track security experience.
Cost Comparison: Which Program Offers Better Value?
Let’s talk money. Budget plays a huge role in deciding between these programs.
TSA PreCheck Pricing
- Initial application: $77.95 – $85 ($68.95 – $70 online renewal), depending on application servicer.
- Renewal: $68.95 to $70 (online) or $78 (in-person)
- Duration: 5 years
Global Entry Pricing
- Initial application: $120 for five years.
- Renewal: $100 (no interview required in most cases)
- Duration: 5 years
Here’s the math: Global Entry costs just $42 more than TSA PreCheck over five years, but you get significantly more benefits. Given that Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck for only a modestly higher price, it’s often the smarter investment.
Free Options Through Credit Cards
Many travel credit cards offer statement credits for these programs:
- TSA PreCheck credits typically range from $78-$85
- Global Entry credits usually cover the full $120 fee
- Most cards offer this benefit once every 4-5 years
If you have a premium travel credit card, you might be able to get either program essentially for free.
Wait Time Analysis: JFK vs. LAX in 2025
Now for the real-world data you came for. How much time do these programs actually save at major airports?
Current Wait Times at JFK Airport
Based on recent data from 2025:
Regular Security Lines:
- Peak hours (6 AM – 9 AM): 35-45 minutes
- Midday (10 AM – 3 PM): 20-30 minutes
- Evening rush (4 PM – 7 PM): 30-40 minutes
TSA PreCheck Lines:
- Peak hours: 8-12 minutes
- Midday: 5-8 minutes
- Evening rush: 10-15 minutes
Global Entry (International Arrivals):
- At JFK Airport, the customs wait time is three minutes for Global Entry holders
- Regular customs: 25-45 minutes during peak periods
Current Wait Times at LAX Airport
TSA PreCheck averages 12 minutes at LAX, making it one of the more efficient major airports.
Regular Security Lines:
- Peak hours: 40-50 minutes
- Midday: 25-35 minutes
- Evening rush: 35-45 minutes
TSA PreCheck Lines:
- Peak hours: 10-15 minutes
- Midday: 5-10 minutes
- Evening rush: 12-18 minutes
Global Entry Benefits:
- International arrivals: 3-8 minutes vs. 30-60 minutes in regular lines
- Domestic security: Same TSA PreCheck benefits as above
Top 10 U.S. Airports: Wait Time Comparison
Here’s current airport security wait times data for major U.S. airports:
- Atlanta (ATL) – TSA PreCheck: 8-15 minutes | Regular: 35-50 minutes
- Los Angeles (LAX) – TSA PreCheck: 10-15 minutes | Regular: 40-50 minutes
- Chicago O’Hare (ORD) – TSA PreCheck: 12-18 minutes | Regular: 30-45 minutes
- Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) – TSA PreCheck: 8-12 minutes | Regular: 25-40 minutes
- New York JFK – TSA PreCheck: 8-15 minutes | Regular: 35-45 minutes
- San Francisco (SFO) – TSA PreCheck: 10-16 minutes | Regular: 30-45 minutes
- Seattle (SEA) – TSA PreCheck: 6-12 minutes | Regular: 25-35 minutes
- Las Vegas (LAS) – TSA PreCheck: 5-10 minutes | Regular: 20-35 minutes
- Miami (MIA) – TSA PreCheck: 12-20 minutes | Regular: 40-55 minutes
- Denver (DEN) – TSA PreCheck: 8-14 minutes | Regular: 25-40 minutes
Note: These times reflect 2025 data and can vary based on season, time of day, and special events.
Application Process: What to Expect
TSA PreCheck Application
The TSA PreCheck process is relatively straightforward:
- Online application (15-20 minutes)
- Schedule appointment at 500+ enrollment centers
- In-person visit (about 10 minutes for fingerprinting and background check)
- Wait for approval (typically 3-5 days)
Global Entry Application
Global Entry requires more steps:
- Online application (30-45 minutes)
- Background check processing (4-6 months)
- Conditional approval notification
- Interview scheduling at 116 enrollment centers
- In-person interview (10-15 minutes)
- Final approval (same day if interview goes well)
The Global Entry process takes longer, but The TSA recommends Global Entry for people who travel abroad about four or more times a year.
Which Program Should You Choose?
Choose TSA PreCheck if:
- You fly domestically 3+ times per year
- You rarely travel internationally
- You don’t have a passport
- You want the fastest application process
- You live far from Global Entry enrollment centers
Choose Global Entry if:
- You travel internationally even once per year
- You want maximum flexibility
- You already have a passport
- You don’t mind a longer application process
- You live near a major airport with enrollment centers
If you travel internationally four or more times a year, consider enrolling in Global Entry instead of TSA PreCheck®.
Real-World Scenarios: Time Savings Calculator
Let’s put this into perspective with real examples:
Scenario 1: Business Traveler (12 domestic flights/year)
- Time saved with TSA PreCheck: 6 hours annually
- Time saved with Global Entry: 6 hours annually (same domestic benefits)
- Winner: TSA PreCheck (lower cost, same benefit)
Scenario 2: International Traveler (8 flights/year, 4 international)
- Time saved with TSA PreCheck: 4 hours on domestic flights
- Time saved with Global Entry: 4 hours domestic + 3 hours international = 7 hours total
- Winner: Global Entry (more comprehensive coverage)
Scenario 3: Vacation Traveler (4 flights/year, 2 international)
- Time saved with TSA PreCheck: 2 hours annually
- Time saved with Global Entry: 2 hours domestic + 1.5 hours international = 3.5 hours total
- Winner: Global Entry (especially if you have a credit card covering the fee)
Additional Benefits to Consider
TSA PreCheck Extras
- Children 12 and under can accompany you through PreCheck lanes for free
- Children 13-17 can join if they have the PreCheck indicator on their boarding pass
- Available at 90+ airlines
Global Entry Extras
- Expedited border crossing at land borders with Mexico and Canada
- Access to NEXUS and SENTRI benefits in some cases
- 24-month renewal grace period (vs. 6 months for TSA PreCheck)
- International recognition and reciprocity agreements
Making the Smart Choice for 2025
Here’s the bottom line: if you’re asking “do I need Global Entry for domestic flights?” the answer depends on your bigger travel picture. Because Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits, it isn’t necessary to have both.
For most travelers, Global Entry offers the best value proposition. Yes, it costs $42 more over five years, but the added flexibility and international benefits make it worthwhile even if you only take one international trip during your membership period.
The airport wait times at major hubs like JFK and LAX show consistent 20-30 minute savings with either program during peak hours. When you multiply that by multiple trips per year, the time savings become substantial.
The Verdict: Global Entry Wins for Most Travelers
Unless you’re absolutely certain you’ll never leave the United States, Global Entry is the smarter investment. The minimal price difference, combined with the comprehensive benefits, makes it the clear winner for 2025.
Remember, with many credit cards offering reimbursement for these programs, you might not pay anything out of pocket anyway. In that case, Global Entry becomes a no-brainer choice.
Ready to skip those long security lines? Start your application today and join the millions of travelers who’ve already discovered the freedom of expedited airport security. Your future self will thank you the next time you’re walking past that endless line of frustrated travelers while you breeze through security in under 10 minutes.
Time is money, and these programs give you back both.