Understanding Global Entry: What It Is and How It Works
Global Entry is a U.S. government program run by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that speeds up the process of returning to the United States from international travel. Instead of waiting in standard customs lines, Global Entry members move through dedicated kiosks and lanes at U.S. airports and certain border crossings. The program has been operating since 2011 and currently has over 10 million members.
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When you arrive back in the United States, a Global Entry member uses an automated passport control kiosk at the airport. You insert your passport, answer a few questions on a touchscreen, take a photo, and the system verifies your identity through fingerprint technology. The process typically takes just a few minutes compared to 30 minutes or more in standard customs lines. After using the kiosk, you proceed directly to baggage claim without needing to speak to a customs officer (unless your bag is selected for additional screening).
Global Entry costs $100 for a five-year membership. The program covers travel through approximately 50 U.S. airports and can also be used at land borders, including locations like San Diego, El Paso, Detroit, and Niagara Falls. The membership is not just for frequent flyers—anyone can join, whether you travel once a year or multiple times monthly.
The program also includes membership in TSA PreCheck, a separate program that reduces security screening times at U.S. airports. TSA PreCheck alone costs $78 to $85 for five years, so Global Entry members receive that benefit at no additional cost. This means you can keep shoes and light jackets on, leave laptops and liquids in your bag, and go through faster security lines when departing the country.
Takeaway: Global Entry is a paid membership program for people who travel internationally and want to move faster through U.S. customs and border security upon return. The investment may pay for itself if you travel internationally just a few times per year.
The Real ID Act: Background and Current Requirements
The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to security concerns following the September 11 attacks. The law created federal standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards, making them more secure and harder to counterfeit. Real ID documents include specific security features like color-shifting ink, holograms, and barcodes that contain encrypted information. As of 2024, approximately 85% of driver's licenses and identification cards issued by U.S. states meet Real ID standards.
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Real ID is not a separate document you obtain—it is a designation given to standard driver's licenses and state ID cards that meet federal security requirements. Each state is responsible for deciding how to implement Real ID. Some states issue Real ID credentials automatically when you renew your license, while others require you to specifically request a Real ID-compliant card. Some states use a "star" or "seal" marking on the card to show it meets Real ID standards, while others do not use visible markings.
The Real ID Act was supposed to take effect in 2008, but the deadline has been extended multiple times. The federal government set May 7, 2025, as the current deadline for Real ID to become required for air travel within the United States. After that date, you will need either a Real ID-compliant driver's license, a passport, a passport card, a military ID, or a Native American tribal ID to board a domestic commercial flight.
This requirement applies only to domestic flights (flights between U.S. cities). For international flights, you have always needed a passport regardless of Real ID status. If you plan to board a domestic flight after May 7, 2025, you should check whether your current driver's license meets Real ID standards. You can usually find this information on your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website or by looking for the star symbol on your license.
Takeaway: Real ID sets federal security standards for driver's licenses and IDs. Starting in May 2025, you will need a Real ID-compliant license, passport, or other acceptable ID to board domestic U.S. flights. Check your state's requirements to understand how to get a Real ID card.
Real ID Requirements by State: What You Need to Know
Each state has implemented Real ID differently, so the process and timeline for obtaining a Real ID card depends on where you live. Some states began issuing Real ID cards years ago, while others are still in the process of transitioning. As of 2024, all 50 states, plus Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and other U.S. territories, offer Real ID-compliant driver's licenses and identification cards.
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When you visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to get a Real ID driver's license or ID card, you will typically need to bring specific documents. Most states require proof of identity (such as a birth certificate, passport, or consular report of birth), proof of Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease agreement). Some states have additional requirements. You should check your specific state's DMV website for the exact list of acceptable documents before you visit.
The cost of a Real ID driver's license or ID card varies by state. Some states issue Real ID cards at no additional cost beyond their standard license renewal fee, while others charge an extra $10 to $50. Processing times also vary—some states issue the card immediately after your visit, while others mail it to you within several weeks. A few states offer expedited processing for an additional fee.
Real ID renewals follow the same rules as regular license renewals. Depending on your state, you may be able to renew your license in person at a DMV office, by mail, or online. However, if this is your first time getting a Real ID card, most states require you to visit a DMV office in person. Some states allow you to schedule an appointment online to reduce wait times. Many states are currently experiencing higher-than-normal demand at DMV offices due to the 2025 deadline, so scheduling ahead is recommended where possible.
Takeaway: Each state's process for obtaining a Real ID card is different. Visit your state's DMV website to learn the specific documents you need, the cost, and how long processing will take. Plan ahead, as DMV offices may have longer wait times as the May 2025 deadline approaches.
How Global Entry and Real ID Work Together for Travelers
Although Global Entry and Real ID serve different purposes, they work together to improve your travel experience. Real ID is required for domestic air travel, while Global Entry speeds up customs and border screening for international travel. Understanding how each fits into your travel routine helps you prepare better for trips.
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If you are flying domestically within the United States, you need a Real ID-compliant driver's license, a passport, a passport card, a military ID, or a tribal ID to board the plane. A Real ID driver's license is often the most convenient option because most people already carry it. Global Entry is not needed for domestic flights, as it only applies to international arrivals and certain border crossings.
If you are traveling internationally, you need a passport to leave and enter the United States regardless of Real ID status. Global Entry membership is optional but provides faster customs screening when you return to the U.S. Many people who travel internationally multiple times per year find Global Entry valuable because it saves significant time at busy airports. For example, at major airports like Los Angeles International or Miami International, standard customs lines can take 45 minutes to an hour during peak travel times, while Global Entry kiosks typically process people in 5 to 10 minutes.
Some travelers find it practical to obtain both Real ID and Global Entry. Real ID ensures you meet the requirement for domestic flights, while Global Entry provides convenience for international travel. Others may only need one or the other depending on their travel habits. Someone who flies domestically but rarely leaves the country needs Real ID but not Global Entry. Someone who travels internationally only once every few years might view Global Entry as an unnecessary expense. Someone who takes frequent international trips might find Global Entry well worth the $100 cost over five years (about $20 per year).
Takeaway: Real ID and Global Entry serve different purposes. Real ID is required for domestic flights, while Global Entry is an optional paid membership that speeds up customs when returning from international travel. Determine which you need based on your travel patterns.