Your Known Traveler Number on your Global Entry card is the nine-digit PASSID printed on the back, in the upper-left corner. However, this number is only useful if you have already been accepted into the Global Entry program, which requires a rigorous background check and an in-person interview.
What is Global Entry?
Global Entry is a trusted traveler program that expedites international travel for pre-approved, low-risk travelers. Administered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), it allows members to use automated kiosks at select airports for expedited entry into the United States, bypassing traditional customs lines.
The program is available to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and certain citizens of other countries. The application process begins on the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website, where you submit personal details, travel history, and employment information. After paying the non-refundable application fee, you undergo a background check and an in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center.
Accepted participants receive a Global Entry card, valid for five years and renewable. This card serves as proof of membership. On the back of your Global Entry card, in the upper-left corner, you will find your KTN. It will be a nine-digit number, labeled as your PASSID or membership number. The back of your card also includes your full name, date of birth, and passport number. It is important to note that the KTN is the same as your Global Entry membership number (PASSID).
Global Entry is not available at all airports, but members are eligible for TSA Pre✓® expedited security screening at participating U.S. airports. When booking flights, remember to add your known traveler number to an existing reservation to enjoy the benefits.
How to Obtain a Global Entry Card
To obtain a Global Entry card, follow these steps:
- Create an account: Start by creating an account on the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website. This is where you will complete the online application and submit the necessary information.
- Submit the application: Once your account is created, fill out the online application form. Provide accurate and detailed information about your personal details, travel history, and employment history.
- Pay the application fee: There is a non-refundable application fee of $100 for the five-year Global Entry membership.
- Background check: After submitting your application and payment, you will undergo a comprehensive background check reviewing your criminal records, immigration history, and customs violations.
- Schedule an interview: If your background check is approved, you will be invited to schedule an in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. The interview allows CBP officers to verify your information and ask about your travel habits and eligibility.
- Attend the interview: Bring your valid passport and any other required documents. The CBP officer will review your application, ask questions, and take your biometric data, such as fingerprints.
- Receive your Global Entry card: If approved, you will receive your Global Entry card by mail within a few weeks. The card serves as proof of membership and must be presented when using Global Entry kiosks.
Once you have your card, you can add your known traveler number to an existing airline reservation to enjoy TSA PreCheck benefits. The back of your Global Entry card contains a section dedicated to your personal information, including your full name, date of birth, and passport number. Your Known Traveler Number (PASSID) is in the upper-left corner, not beneath or near the passport number, and is not labeled "KTN" or "Known Traveler Number" on the card.
The application process can take several weeks or months, so apply well in advance of your travel dates.
Understanding the Known Traveler Number (KTN)
The Known Traveler Number (KTN) is a unique nine-digit number associated with your Global Entry membership. It grants access to expedited security screenings and other benefits. Here are the key aspects of the KTN:
1. Identification: The KTN serves as a form of identification, linking your Global Entry membership to your travel records. While the Global Entry membership number is used for administrative purposes, the KTN is primarily used when making flight reservations.
2. Application and Approval: When you apply for Global Entry, you will be assigned a Known Traveler Number if your application is approved. This number is unique to you and remains the same throughout your membership. The KTN is connected to your personal information and background check results, helping to verify your low-risk traveler status.
3. Providing the KTN: Once you have obtained your KTN, it is essential to provide it when making flight reservations. This allows the airline to include your KTN in your booking information, which is then transmitted to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for security screening purposes. You can also add your known traveler number to an existing reservation through the airline’s website or app.
4. TSA Pre✓® Eligibility: One of the significant benefits of having a KTN is eligibility for expedited airport security screening through the TSA Pre✓® program. When your KTN is included in your booking, you have a higher chance of being selected for TSA Pre✓®, meaning you can keep your shoes, belts, and jackets on and leave laptops and liquids in your bag during the security checkpoint.
5. Global Entry Kiosks: The KTN allows you to use Global Entry kiosks when returning to the United States from an international trip. By entering your KTN at the kiosk, you can bypass traditional passport control lines and expedite your re-entry process, saving time and reducing the hassle of customs and immigration checks.
The Known Traveler Number is only available to approved Global Entry members. If you have not yet applied for Global Entry, it is recommended to do so to enjoy the benefits of expedited travel.
Where to Find the Known Traveler Number on Your Global Entry Card
Your Global Entry card is an essential document that verifies your membership and grants you access to the program's benefits. On the card, you will find your Known Traveler Number (KTN), which is necessary for expedited security screenings and other travel-related processes. Here's where you can locate your KTN:
1. The number is unique to you and should be kept confidential to ensure the security of your travel information.
2. This section includes details such as your full name, date of birth, and passport number.
3. Magnetic Strip: On the back of your Global Entry card, there is a magnetic strip that contains encoded data about your membership and personal details. While your KTN might not be visually displayed on the card's magnetic strip, it is embedded in the encoded data that is read by airport kiosks and systems during the travel process.
It is important to have your Global Entry card with your Known Traveler Number readily available when you travel. Whether you are participating in the TSA Pre✓® program or using the Global Entry kiosks, you may be required to provide your KTN to benefit from the expedited services. Keep your Global Entry card in a safe and easily accessible place, such as your wallet or travel documents folder, to ensure you can easily locate it when needed.
If you are unable to find your Global Entry card or have misplaced it, it is recommended to contact the Global Entry Enrollment Center or visit the TTP website for assistance in obtaining a replacement card.
By knowing where to find your Known Traveler Number on your Global Entry card, you can streamline your travel experience and take full advantage of the program's benefits.
How the Known Traveler Number is Used
The Known Traveler Number (KTN) plays a crucial role in simplifying and expediting the travel process for Global Entry members. This unique identifier is used in various ways to streamline security screenings and enhance the overall travel experience. Here's how the Known Traveler Number is used:
1. Flight Reservations: When making flight reservations, it is important to provide your Known Traveler Number to the airline. Including your KTN in your reservation increases the likelihood of being selected for expedited security screening through the TSA Pre✓® program.
2. TSA Pre✓® Eligibility: The Known Traveler Number is a key factor in determining your eligibility for TSA Pre✓®. When your KTN is included in your reservation, the TSA can verify your trusted traveler status and grant you access to expedited airport security screening. With TSA Pre✓®, you can enjoy the convenience of keeping your shoes, belts, and jackets on, leaving laptops and liquids in your bag, and reducing overall screening time.
3. Global Entry Kiosks: The Known Traveler Number is also used when utilizing the Global Entry kiosks at participating airports for expedited customs and immigration clearance. To access the benefits of Global Entry, members enter their KTN at the kiosk and follow the prompts to complete the necessary checks. Using the KTN at the kiosks allows travelers to bypass traditional passport control lines, saving time and hassle upon their return to the United States.
4. Trusted Traveler Programs: The Known Traveler Number is not limited to Global Entry alone. It can also be used for other trusted traveler programs such as SENTRI (for land border crossings) and NEXUS (for travel between the United States and Canada). By providing your KTN to the respective programs, you can enjoy expedited processing and smooth travel experiences across different modes of transportation.
5. Secure Identification: Along with being used for travel benefits, the Known Traveler Number is an essential form of identification. It provides a unique link to your Global Entry membership and personal information, helping to verify your low-risk traveler status. The KTN ensures that your travel information remains secure and confidential throughout the travel process.
By understanding how the Known Traveler Number is used, Global Entry members can leverage its benefits to enjoy a more efficient, convenient, and hassle-free travel experience. Remember to provide your KTN when making flight reservations and ensure it is included in your booking details to optimize your expedited travel privileges.
Benefits of the Known Traveler Number
The Known Traveler Number (KTN) offers a range of benefits for Global Entry members, making travel more convenient and efficient. Let's explore the advantages:
1. Expedited Airport Security: By including your KTN in flight reservations, you become eligible for TSA Pre✓®.
2. Faster Customs and Immigration Clearance: Global Entry members with a KTN can skip long queues at passport control when returning to the U.S. Using Global Entry kiosks at participating airports expedites customs and immigration clearance, bypassing traditional lines.
3. Access to Trusted Traveler Programs: Your KTN extends beyond Global Entry. It can be used for SENTRI and NEXUS, providing expedited processing for land border crossings and travel between the U.S. and Canada.
4. Seamless Travel Experience: Expedited security screenings and fast customs clearance save time, reduce stress, and let you focus on your journey. To ensure your KTN is applied, you may need to add your known traveler number to an existing reservation after booking.
5. Confidence and Peace of Mind: With a KTN, you travel knowing you have been pre-approved as a low-risk traveler. Extensive background checks and thorough vetting provide added security for you and fellow travelers.
6. Time Savings: The KTN helps bypass security lines, avoid lengthy customs queues, and experience a more streamlined process, allowing you to make the most of your time.
To fully enjoy these benefits, provide your KTN when making flight reservations. For Global Entry, your KTN is your PASSID, which is your membership number. The back of your card contains personal information such as your full name, date of birth, and passport number.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Known Traveler Number
1. Do I need a Known Traveler Number if I have Global Entry?
Yes, the Known Traveler Number (KTN) is an important component of the Global Entry program. It allows you to enjoy the benefits of expedited security screenings and customs clearance. When making flight reservations, providing your KTN increases your chances of being selected for TSA Pre✓® and streamlines your travel experience.
2. Where can I find my Known Traveler Number?
Your Known Traveler Number is not labeled "KTN" or "Known Traveler Number" on the card. Additionally, some airlines may store your KTN in their system if you provided it during previous bookings.
3. Can I use my Known Traveler Number for international travel?
The Known Traveler Number primarily applies to domestic travel within the United States. However, Global Entry members can also benefit from expedited re-entry into the United States after international trips by using their Known Traveler Number at Global Entry kiosks located at participating airports.
4. Can I use someone else's Known Traveler Number?
No, the Known Traveler Number is linked to an individual's Global Entry membership and personal information. It cannot be used by anyone else. Each traveler must have their own Global Entry membership and associated KTN to enjoy the program's benefits.
5. Can I apply for TSA Pre✓® without a Known Traveler Number?
No, the Known Traveler Number is necessary for TSA Pre✓® eligibility. To apply for TSA Pre✓®, you must have a valid KTN. If you are interested in TSA Pre✓®, you should first apply for Global Entry, which will grant you a Known Traveler Number as part of the enrollment process.
6. Can I update or change my Known Traveler Number?
Yes, you can update your Known Traveler Number with the airline on a specific reservation if you have recently been assigned a new KTN. Contact the airline directly and provide them with your updated KTN details. Keep in mind that individual airlines may have their own procedures for updating passenger information.
7. Is the Known Traveler Number the same as the membership number?
The Known Traveler Number is a nine-digit identification number associated with Global Entry and is used for travel-related purposes. The membership number, labeled as your PASSID on the card, is the same identification number issued to you by Global Entry.
Remember, specific details may vary, so it's always a good idea to refer to the official Global Entry website or contact the Global Entry Enrollment Center for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the Known Traveler Number and its usage.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Global Entry card and understanding the importance of the Known Traveler Number (KTN) can significantly enhance your travel experience. Global Entry offers benefits including expedited airport security screening through TSA Pre✓®, streamlined customs and immigration clearance, and access to trusted traveler programs. By providing your KTN when making flight reservations, you increase your chances of being selected for expedited security screening.
The Known Traveler Number plays a crucial role in streamlining travel, from booking to return. It serves as proof of your Global Entry membership, grants access to expedited security screenings, and allows you to bypass long lines at passport control by using Global Entry kiosks.
Remember, the KTN is unique to each individual and should be kept confidential. Always double-check your card for the correct placement, and provide it when making flight reservations to maximize expedited travel benefits.
Whether you are a frequent traveler or just beginning to explore the world, the Known Traveler Number on your Global Entry card can simplify and expedite your journeys. Take advantage of this trusted traveler program and travel with ease.
Related travel guides: How Do You Get A Known Traveler Number.
