What is another name for TSA PreCheck?

Beyond TSA PreCheck: Understanding the DHS’s Expedited Screening Options

TSA PreCheck is a well-known program offering expedited security screening at U.S. airports. But while the name is familiar, many travelers aren’t aware of its close relationship to other programs designed to streamline the airport experience. One such program, and arguably the most frequently asked-about alternative, is Global Entry.

Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are often mistakenly used interchangeably, but while they share similarities, they are distinct programs under the umbrella of the Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The key difference lies in their scope: TSA PreCheck focuses solely on airport security screening, while Global Entry encompasses both expedited airport security and expedited customs and immigration processing upon return to the United States.

Think of it this way: TSA PreCheck is a subset of the benefits offered by Global Entry. While TSA PreCheck allows eligible travelers to bypass certain security checkpoints at the airport (meaning you can often keep your shoes and belt on, and your laptop and liquids in your bag), Global Entry provides those same benefits plus a streamlined process for clearing customs and immigration upon arrival in the U.S. after international travel. This means less time waiting in line at immigration and customs booths, accelerating your journey from the gate to your final destination.

Therefore, there isn’t a single “other name” for TSA PreCheck. However, Global Entry is the closest equivalent, offering all the advantages of TSA PreCheck and more for those who frequently travel internationally. If you only travel domestically, TSA PreCheck is sufficient. But if international travel is part of your routine, Global Entry is the more comprehensive and arguably more valuable option, effectively serving as an expanded version of TSA PreCheck’s expedited security screening. Both programs, though, ultimately aim to achieve the same goal: reducing stress and improving the overall travel experience for pre-vetted, low-risk travelers.