If you have flown in the last few years, you may have noticed the signs at the airport for TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry. These are two completely different programs with the Global Entry program actually being run by Customs and Border Patrol. While in California recently for work as well as family fun, it seemed like a good idea to plan out an appointment for Global Entry to make my international travel a little easier. Hopefully if some of you travel, being aware of this process will make your lives a little easier.

To begin you need to visit this website, register, and then fill out an application. Once you submit the application you have to wait for an email alerting you that you have a message in the center on the GOES website. If your application is accepted, you are invited to make an interview appointment at one of the offices located around the country. Shockingly, there was not a Customs and Border Patrol office in Iowa so I planned to visit the one in LAX. This is a time intensive process so if there is not an office in your state, fill out the application a few months ahead of when you will be near one.

Arriving for the appointment is a simple check in at the desk, then waiting for your name to be called for your time slot. I checked in fifteen minutes early to be on the safe side. The interview was painless, they do the background check from your application ahead of time, then get your fingerprints via a scanner which you will use when entering the country each time. Although the TSA is not associated with Global Entry, they do use the background check from the Global Entry application so using your Known Traveler ID on your flights may increase your chances of TSA Pre-Check status. Hope some of you find this helpful, safe travels!