Today, for the first time in my life, I got finger-printed.
Just like on CSI:Miami, my fingerprints were run through Codis and every other crime database in the world. Guess what came up? You’re right! Nada. I guess I am a pretty boring person. At least I am honest, upstanding and criminal record-free.
I had my fingerprints taken at the interview for my Global Entry acceptance. Yes, and I was accepted. Now you can eat your hearts out with jealousy when you see me breezing through the customs lines when I return from some exotic destination like Timbuktu (yes, that would be exotic!!) or …or… I guess they are all exotic if you have never been, right?
Global Entry facilitates returning to the US from abroad, but it also gives you automatic “Trusted Traveler” status and that is a big PLUS when you have to go through TSA screening: You get to go in the TSA Pre line. Don’t have to take off your clothes or shoes, don’t have to take out your computer and gels…just your cell phone (if you carry it in your pocket). Breeze right through (and then wait 20 minutes for your traveling companions)! You can become a trusted traveler if you have elite status on Delta or American…But it is automatic with Global Entry.
Apply online! Just Google “Global Entry” or “GOES”. Have your passport and driver’s license (and a credit card) handy and you’re good to go through the application process. Once your application is tentatively approved, you’ll go for your interview (like I did today) and before you know it … You’ll be breezing through TSA with me.
