Trusted Traveler Programs

It is no secret that even the most anticipated trip can still be stressful. The most stressful moments are often just getting there. As busy holiday or summer seasons approach, the congestion and the lines at the airports can seem intimidating. However, travelers can mitigate some of that stress by signing up for trusted travel programs such as Global Entry, NEXUS, CLEAR, and TSA PreCheck. These programs offer various benefits and conveniences, including expedited border clearance, streamlined security screening, and international travel convenience. Whether for frequent international travelers, cross-border commuters, or individuals seeking a smoother airport experience, these programs provide valuable enhancements to the travel journey, saving time and reducing stress.

1. Global Entry: Operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Global Entry is designed to expedite the entry process for pre-approved, low-risk travelers arriving in the United States. Members can bypass traditional passport control queues and use dedicated kiosks at select airports to complete immigration and customs declarations quickly. Global Entry also includes TSA PreCheck benefits, providing expedited security screening at participating U.S. airports. The program offers time savings, streamlined entry processes, and international travel convenience, making it particularly valuable for frequent international travelers seeking efficiency and convenience. CPB has just made it even easier to f
   
   
   
2. TSA PreCheck: TSA PreCheck is a trusted traveler program operated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States. It allows pre-approved travelers to undergo expedited security screening at participating airports. TSA PreCheck members benefit from dedicated security lanes where they can keep their shoes, belts, and light jackets on, and leave laptops and compliant liquids in their carry-on bags. This expedited screening process saves time and reduces hassle, making the airport experience more efficient and convenient for travelers.
   
   
   
3. NEXUS: NEXUS is a joint program between the United States and Canada, offering expedited processing for pre-approved travelers entering both countries. Participants enjoy benefits similar to Global Entry, including dedicated lanes at land border crossings, expedited airport screening through TSA PreCheck, and simplified customs and immigration processes. NEXUS is ideal for travelers who frequently cross the U.S.-Canada border by air, land, or sea, providing efficiency and convenience for both leisure and business travel.
   
   For Global Entry, TSA Pre-check and Nexus:
   
   
   • U.S. Citizens Learn and Apply –>HERE
   • Canadian Citizens Learn and Apply to Nexus–> HERE
     
     
4. CLEAR: Last is CLEAR. Unlike Global Entry and NEXUS, which primarily focus on expedited border and security clearance processes, CLEAR is a biometric identity verification program that accelerates the airport security screening process. Members undergo a one-time enrollment process where their biometric data, such as fingerprints and iris scans, is captured. At participating airports, members can use designated CLEAR lanes to verify their identity quickly, allowing them to bypass the standard document check queue. While CLEAR does not replace TSA screening, it complements TSA PreCheck by providing an additional layer of expedited identity verification, reducing wait times at security checkpoints. Individuals 18 years of age and older can enroll in CLEAR Plus. To enroll, you must have one of the following forms of photo identification:
   
   

   • U.S. Driver’s License
   • U.S. Passport
   • U.S. State Issued I.D.

   All forms of identification must be valid, unexpired, not amended, and have a photo. Children under 18 can use the CLEAR Lane for free when accompanies by a CLEAR Plus Member—no enrollment needed.

   Enroll in CLEAR –>HERE
   
   

Trusted travel programs offer unparalleled benefits for travelers eager to to make the increasingly difficult airport process, easier. These programs are invaluable as they offer time-saving convenience and enhancing the overall travel experience. By bypassing crowds and streamlining procedures, these programs ensure a seamless journey, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying their destinations and experiences.