The ongoing partial government shutdown may lead to travel disruptions, but TSA PreCheck can still help you avoid slow security lines — at least for now.
The shutdown affects funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Because the DHS oversees the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), travelers are likely to face delays and longer wait times moving through security during the government shutdown.
One way to avoid potential delays is to enroll in TSA PreCheck. These expedited security lanes are still open at airports across the United States. However, international travelers won’t be as lucky. The DHS has suspended the Customs and Border Protection’s Global Entry service — which could slow down entry back into the U.S. after a trip abroad.
If you’re traveling over the next several days, here’s what to know about using TSA PreCheck and Global Entry during the government shutdown.
As of Feb. 22, TSA PreCheck “remains operational with no change for the traveling public.”
However, the DHS leaves open the possibility of closing the service at a future point during the shutdown: “As staffing constraints arise, TSA will evaluate on a case-by-case basis and adjust operations accordingly.”
During extended government shutdowns, long TSA wait times and delays are a big concern for travelers. While TSA agents are required to work during shutdowns, they’re also working without pay, which can create staffing constraints and mounting delays. On top of the shutdown, winter weather is restricting travel across the Northeast U.S. and leading to additional flight delays and cancellations.
If you don’t have TSA PreCheck, make sure you build in extra time between arriving at the airport and your flight’s departure to avoid missing your flight due to long security lines. Even if you are enrolled in TSA PreCheck, it’s still smart to arrive early and check travel alerts for your upcoming travel.
Though the DHS is continuing to operate TSA PreCheck lanes, it suspended all Global Entry processing at participating airports starting this week as part of its effort to “conserve resources.”
This means international travelers should expect delays when returning to the U.S. throughout the government shutdown. If you typically use Global Entry when traveling abroad and have an upcoming trip, prepare to spend more time in regular processing lines at customs upon re-entry.
Geoff Freeman, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, said in a statement that, while the organization is glad the DHS has kept TSA PreCheck operational, it is “urging the same for Global Entry.”
“These Trusted Traveler Programs strengthen aviation security and improve screening efficiency. They are funded by user fees, and there is no reason at this time for them to be suspended.” Both TSA PreCheck and Global Entry continued to operate during past government shutdowns, including the record-long shutdown last year.
TSA PreCheck and Global Entry can both minimize the time you spend at the airport, but they serve two very different functions. The best choice for you depends on how you typically travel.
TSA PreCheck helps you move through security more quickly at participating airports throughout the country. Airports have dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes, which are often significantly shorter than general security lines, and the screening process doesn’t require you to remove your shoes or belts.
PreCheck is available at more than 200 airports in the U.S. and with over 90 participating airlines. You can use it when you’re at the airport for domestic flights or when you leave a U.S. airport for an international destination. The program typically costs up to $85 for five years of access.
Global Entry, on the other hand, is most useful for frequent international travelers. Global Entry grants you expedited entry back into the U.S. from other countries. You’ll have shorter wait times through customs and won’t have to go through processing lines or fill out paperwork. Global Entry is available at major U.S. airports and has a non-refundable $120 fee for five years of access.
Compared to PreCheck, Global Entry can take longer to enroll in, since you’ll need to do an in-person interview at an enrollment center. But once you enroll in Global Entry, you’ll also have access to TSA PreCheck.
Read more: How to use your credit card for international travel
During a government shutdown, you should always be prepared for delays and longer lines at the airport. But using TSA PreCheck is a great way to expedite the security process and get to your destination more quickly.
If you’re traveling soon, consider TSA PreCheck to help avoid some of the disruptions you might face. You can even offset the cost using a travel credit card with fee credits for either TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.
Here are a few of our top picks for cards with TSA PreCheck benefits:
Get a statement credit of up to $120 every four years as reimbursement for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fees charged to your card.
Read our full Chase Sapphire Reserve review
Get up to $120 in statement credits when you use your Venture card for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.
Read our full review of the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
United flyers with this airline card can get a statement credit worth up to $120 every four years for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fees.
Read our full United Explorer Card review
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