Trusted Traveler Programs — Which One Is Right for You?

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection offers several Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) for pre-approved, low-risk travelers. Each program has different benefits, eligibility requirements, and costs. Here's how they compare.

Global Entry

Best for: International air travelers

Expedited clearance when arriving in the United States from abroad. Use automated kiosks at major airports to skip the customs line. Includes TSA PreCheck.

Cost: $100 for 5 years
Eligibility: U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and citizens of select countries
Includes: TSA PreCheck

Get Global Entry Alerts

SENTRI

Best for: Frequent US-Mexico border crossers

Dedicated lanes at US-Mexico land border crossings for pre-approved travelers. The most comprehensive program — includes Global Entry and TSA PreCheck benefits.

Cost: $120.50 for 5 years
Eligibility: U.S. citizens, permanent residents, Mexican nationals
Includes: Global Entry + TSA PreCheck

Get SENTRI Alerts

NEXUS

Best for: Frequent US-Canada border crossers

Expedited processing at US-Canada land border crossings, NEXUS kiosks at Canadian airports, and Global Entry kiosks at U.S. airports. Best value — lowest cost with the most cross-border benefits.

Cost: $120 for 5 years
Eligibility: U.S. and Canadian citizens/permanent residents
Includes: Global Entry + TSA PreCheck

Get NEXUS Alerts

FAST (Free and Secure Trade)

Best for: Commercial truck drivers

Expedited border crossing for pre-approved commercial drivers at US-Canada and US-Mexico borders. Available in two variants depending on which border you cross.

Cost: $50 for 5 years
Eligibility: Commercial drivers who are citizens/residents of the U.S., Canada, or Mexico
Does not include Global Entry or TSA PreCheck

Get FAST Alerts

Which Program Should You Choose?

You fly internationally often → Global Entry

You cross the US-Mexico border regularly → SENTRI (includes Global Entry)

You cross the US-Canada border regularly → NEXUS (includes Global Entry, best value)

You're a commercial truck driver → FAST

Pro tip: SENTRI and NEXUS both include Global Entry benefits. If you cross a land border regularly, one of these programs gives you more value than Global Entry alone — for roughly the same price.