Your Global Entry card becomes active on the date printed on the front

You do not need to do anything to activate your Global Entry card. The card is ready to use on the activation date shown on its face — typically the date it was issued or a few days after. You can start using it at airport kiosks and trusted traveler lanes immediately on that date, without calling anyone or visiting a website.

The only step you may need to take is updating your Known Traveler Number (KTN) in your airline reservations if you did not already provide it during your Global Entry application. This ensures your trusted traveler status shows up when you check in for flights.

Key Takeaways

  • Your Global Entry card activates automatically on the date printed on the front — no phone call or online activation required.
  • You can use the card at airport security kiosks and trusted traveler lanes starting on the activation date.
  • Add your Known Traveler Number to your airline reservations to link your trusted traveler status to your tickets.
  • If your card arrives damaged or does not work at an airport kiosk, contact U.S. Customs and Border Protection to request a replacement.

Where to find your activation date

The activation date is printed directly on the front of your Global Entry card, usually in the lower right corner. It appears as a month and year (for example, 03/2025). This is the date your card becomes valid for use.

If you received your card in the mail but cannot locate the activation date, check your Global Entry account on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website. Log in with the same credentials you used to apply, and your card status and activation date will be listed there.

Using your card at airport security

When you arrive at an airport with Global Entry, look for the trusted traveler lane or kiosk — these are usually marked clearly near the standard security checkpoint. Insert your card into the kiosk or hand it to the officer, and follow the on-screen prompts or their instructions.

You will still need to present your passport or Real ID driver's license along with your boarding pass. Global Entry does not replace these documents; it simply speeds up the security screening process by allowing you to keep shoes, belts, and light jackets on and leave laptops and liquids in your bag.

Adding your Known Traveler Number to airline reservations

Your Known Traveler Number (KTN) is a nine-character code that links your Global Entry status to your airline tickets. You received this number when your Global Entry application was approved — it was included in your approval email or is visible in your CBP account.

Log into each airline's website where you have a frequent flyer account or reservation, and add your KTN to your profile. This ensures your trusted traveler status appears on your boarding pass automatically. Some airlines allow you to add it during check-in as well, but adding it to your account ahead of time is more reliable.

What to do if your card does not work

If you reach the activation date and your card is rejected at an airport kiosk, first confirm that you are using a trusted traveler lane or kiosk — not a standard security checkpoint. If you are in the correct location and the card still does not scan, the card may be damaged or defective.

Contact U.S. Customs and Border Protection through the CBP website or by calling the Global Entry enrollment center that processed your application. They can verify your account status and send you a replacement card if needed. Replacement cards typically arrive within two to three weeks.

Using Global Entry at international airports

Global Entry works at U.S. airports when you are returning to the United States. You will use it at the customs and border protection area after you land, not at your departure airport.

If you are traveling internationally and want expedited screening in other countries, you may be interested in programs like TSA PreCheck (for domestic U.S. flights) or trusted traveler programs in other nations, but those are separate from Global Entry and require their own enrollment.

Renewing your Global Entry card before it expires

Global Entry is valid for five years from your activation date. You can renew your membership up to six months before the expiration date shown on your card. Renewal is done through the CBP website and costs less than the initial application.

When you renew, you will receive a new card with a new activation date. Your old card stops working on the expiration date, so plan your renewal in advance if you travel frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to activate my Global Entry card online?

No. Your card activates automatically on the date printed on it. There is no online activation step, no phone number to call, and no website form to fill out. Simply wait until the activation date and use the card at the airport.

What if my card arrives before the activation date?

You can keep it safe until the activation date arrives. Do not attempt to use it before that date — airport kiosks will reject it. The activation date is printed on the card for this reason.

Can I use my Global Entry card at every U.S. airport?

Most major U.S. airports have Global Entry kiosks and trusted traveler lanes, but not all smaller airports do. If your airport does not have a trusted traveler option, you will go through standard security screening. Check the CBP website for a list of participating airports.

What happens if I lose my Global Entry card?

Contact U.S. Customs and Border Protection immediately to report it lost. You can request a replacement card through your CBP account. Your membership remains active while you wait for the replacement to arrive.

Does my Global Entry card work for TSA PreCheck?

No. Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are separate programs. Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits when you use it at U.S. airports, but the card itself is only for customs and border protection screening. If you want TSA PreCheck at airports without Global Entry kiosks, you need to enroll in TSA PreCheck separately.