Best Credit Cards for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry of November 2025 

Airport security screening checkpoints are often the most time-consuming and frustrating aspects of travel. If you don’t budget enough time, you could miss your flight with no recourse from the airline. Thankfully, you can significantly reduce your wait times and give yourself peace of mind with a Global Entry credit card. 

If you’re a frequent traveler like me, you’ll likely benefit from a credit card that pays for Global Entry, even if you don’t travel internationally often. What you may not know is that having Global Entry also gives you TSA PreCheck membership. Many of the best travel credit cards offer statement credits for your application fees, which can help you save money and provide a smoother travel experience. 

Here are some of the best credit cards from a few of our partners with TSA PreCheck and Global Entry credits.

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Quick Overview: Best Credit Cards for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry

  Our Choice For Credit Range Annual Fee Highlights
Rates and Fees | Terms Apply

American Express Platinum Card®

4.0
CardCritics™ Rating

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.

Premium Perks & Benefits
Good – Excellent
$895
Massive welcome offer opportunity plus several annual statement credits, lounge access and other premium benefits You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
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Chase Sapphire Reserve®

4.8
CardCritics™ Rating

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.

Premium Perks
Excellent
720 – 850*
$795
Luxury travel card with airport lounge access & a bonus worth up to $2,500 in Travel Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Your points are worth up to 100% more when you redeem them through Chase Travel, making this bonus worth up to $2,500.
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Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

4.8
CardCritics™ Rating

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.

Premium Travel Rewards & Perks
Excellent
720 – 850*
$395
Very generous bonus and statement credit opportunities plus premium perks.
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Elevated Rewards and Premium Travel Perks
Excellent/Good
670 – 850*
$595
Earn 100,000 points and premium benefits For a limited time, earn 100,000 bonus Points after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months of account opening.
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Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

4.7
CardCritics™ Rating

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.

Elevated Travel Rewards
Excellent, Good
670 – 850*
$95
Earn a welcome bonus worth $750 and 2x – 5x rewards Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.

Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day.
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U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card

4.5
CardCritics™ Rating

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.

Travel
Good – Excellent
670 – 850*
$0
Earn a welcome bonus and 1X – 5X rewards 5X points on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center

4X on travel

4X at gas stations and EV charging stations on your first $1,000 each quarter (excludes discount stores/supercenters and wholesale clubs)

2X on dining, streaming services and at grocery stores (excludes discount stores/supercenters and wholesale clubs)

1X point on all other eligible purchases
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Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

4.7
CardCritics™ Rating

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.

Premium Perks
Excellent/Good
670 – 850*
$95
Unlimited 1.5 points per $1 on all purchases, 2 points per $1 on dining and travel, 60,000 bonus points opportunity worth $600 Receive 60,000 online bonus points – a $600 value – after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
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Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite Credit Card

4.2
CardCritics™ Rating

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.

Travel & Dining Purchases
Excellent/Good
670-850*
$550
75,000 bonus points plus travel perks75,000 online bonus points — a $750 value — after you make at least $5,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
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Huge Premium Rewards and Perks
American Express Platinum Card®
4.0
CardCritics™ Rating

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.

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Top Feature

You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

Purchase APR

See Pay Over Time APR

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CardCritics™ Opinion

A large annual fee on a card often means it comes with valuable perks to make it worthwhile and that is most definitely the case for the American Express Platinum Card®. You may be eligible for as high

Recommended Credit Score

Good – Excellent

Annual Fee

$895 See Rates & Fees

Rewards

1x – 5x 5 Membership Rewards points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel®, on up to $500,000 spent per year.

5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel®.

1 point per dollar on all other purchases.

Terms apply.

Card Details From Issuer

  • You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
  • Get more for your travels with 5X Membership Rewards® points on all flights and prepaid hotel bookings through American Express Travel®, including Fine Hotels + Resorts® and The Hotel Collection bookings. You earn 5X points on flights purchased directly from airlines or through American Express Travel® on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
  • More Value! With over 1,550 airport lounges – more than any other credit card company on the market* – enjoy the benefits of the Global Lounge Collection®, over $850 of annual value, with access to Centurion Lounges, 10 complimentary Delta Sky Club® visits when flying on an eligible Delta flight (subject to visit limitations), Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required), and other select partner lounges. * As of 07/2025.
  • More Value! $200 Uber Cash + $120 Uber One Credit: With the Platinum Card® you can receive $15 in Uber Cash each month plus a bonus $20 in December when you add your Platinum Card® to your Uber account to use on rides and orders in the U.S when you select an Amex Card for your transaction. Plus, when you use the Platinum Card® to pay for an auto-renewing Uber One membership, you can get up to $120 in statement credits each calendar year. Terms apply.
  • More Value! $300 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $25 in statement credits each month after you pay for eligible purchases with the Platinum Card® at participating partners. Enrollment required.
  • More Value! $600 Hotel Credit: Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection* bookings through American Express Travel® using the Platinum Card®. *The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
  • New! $400 Resy Credit + Platinum Nights by Resy: When you use the Platinum Card® to pay at U.S. Resy restaurants and to make other eligible purchases through Resy, you can get up to $100 in statement credits each quarter with the $400 Resy Credit benefit. Plus, with Platinum Nights by Resy, you can get special access to reservations on select nights at participating in demand Resy restaurants with the Platinum Card®. Simply add your eligible Card to your Resy profile to book and discover Platinum Nights reservations near you, enrollment required.
  • More Value! $209 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps get you to your gate faster by using unique facial attributes to verify you are you at 50+ airports nationwide. You can cover the cost of a CLEAR Plus Membership* with up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for CLEAR Plus with the Platinum Card®. *Excluding any applicable taxes and fees. Subject to auto-renewal.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees, such as checked bags and in-flight refreshments, are charged by the airline to the Platinum Card® Account*. American Express relies on airlines to submit the correct information on airline transactions to identify incidental fee purchases. If you do not see a credit for a qualifying incidental purchase on your eligible Card after 8 weeks, simply call the number on the back of your Card. Qualifying airlines are subject to change. See terms & conditions for more details.
  • Start your vacation sooner, and keep it going longer. When you book Fine Hotels + Resorts® through American Express Travel®, enjoy noon check-in upon arrival, when available, and guaranteed 4PM check-out.
  • New! $300 lululemon Credit: Enjoy up to $75 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card® for eligible purchases at U.S. lululemon retail stores (excluding outlets) and lululemon.com. That’s up to $300 in statement credits each calendar year. Enrollment required.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Receive a statement credit* for one monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) after you pay for Walmart+ each month with the Platinum Card®.*Up to $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups not eligible.
  • $100 Saks Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue or saks.com on the Platinum Card®. That’s up to $50 in statement credits from January through June and up to $50 in statement credits from July through December. No minimum purchase required. Enrollment required.
  • Whenever you need us, we’re here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
  • $895 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.
125,000 bonus points
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
4.8
CardCritics™ Rating

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.

Read Full Review

Top Feature

Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Purchase & Balance Transfer APR

19.99% – 28.49% Variable

CardCritics™ Opinion

If you want to level up your travel rewards to luxury levels, this card may be the right fit. The ongoing rewards, annual travel credits and incredible miles transfer and redemption options are hard to beat. Add in

Recommended Credit Score

Excellent (720 – 850*)

Annual Fee

$795

Cash Back

1x – 8x Earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠ and 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct. Plus, earn 3x points on dining worldwide & 1x points on all other purchases.

Card Details From Issuer

  • Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Get more than $2,700 in annual value with Sapphire Reserve.
  • Earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠ and 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct. Plus, earn 3x points on dining worldwide & 1x points on all other purchases
  • $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Access over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide with a complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership, plus every Chase Sapphire Lounge® by The Club with two guests. Plus, up to $120 towards Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck® every 4 years
  • Get up to $150 in statement credits every six months for a maximum of $300 annually for dining at restaurants that are part of Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables.
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and more.
  • Get complimentary Apple TV+, the exclusive streaming home of Apple Originals. Plus Apple Music — all the music you love, across all your devices. Subscriptions run through 6/22/27 — a value of $250 annually
  • Member FDIC
Huge Bonus Miles + Premium Travel Perks
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
4.8
CardCritics™ Rating

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.

Read Full Review

Top Feature

For a limited time, earn 100,000 bonus miles once you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first 6 months from account opening, equal to $1,000 in travel

Purchase & Balance Transfer APR

19.99% – 28.99% (Variable)

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CardCritics™ Opinion

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is a premium travel card that not only offers a significant welcome bonus, but also lucrative bonus earning rates and valuable perks that help offset the steep annual fee. For

Recommended Credit Score

Excellent (720 – 850*)

Annual Fee

$395

Rewards

2X – 10X Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel.

Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases.

Card Details From Issuer

  • LIMITED-TIME OFFER: Earn 100,000 bonus miles once you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first 6 months from account opening – equal to $1,000 in travel
  • Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
  • Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
  • Enjoy access to 1,300+ lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge locations and Priority Pass™ lounges, after enrollment
  • Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
  • Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
Huge welcome offer and premium perks
Citi Strata Elite℠ Card

Top Feature

For a limited time, earn 100,000 bonus Points after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months of account opening.

Purchase & Balance Transfer APR

20.74% – 28.74% (Variable)

CardCritics™ Opinion

Citi’s new premium credit card is a strong option for frequent travelers who prefer earning ThankYou® points and want upscale perks, such as airport lounge access (including four American Airlines Admirals Club passes annually) and travel statement credits.

Recommended Credit Score

Excellent/Good (670 – 850*)

Annual Fee

$595

Rewards

1.5x – 12x Earn 12 Points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on cititravel.com and 6 Points per $1 spent on Air Travel booked on cititravel.com Earn 6 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants including Restaurant Delivery Services on CitiNights℠ purchases, every Friday and Saturday from 6 PM to 6 AM ET. Earn 3 Points per $1 spent any other time Earn 1.5 Points per $1 spent on All Other Purchases

Card Details From Issuer

  • For a limited time, earn 100,000 bonus Points after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months of account opening.
  • Earn 12 Points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on cititravel.com and 6 Points per $1 spent on Air Travel booked on cititravel.com
  • Earn 6 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants including Restaurant Delivery Services on CitiNights℠ purchases, every Friday and Saturday from 6 PM to 6 AM ET. Earn 3 Points per $1 spent any other time
  • Earn 1.5 Points per $1 spent on All Other Purchases
  • Up to $300 Annual Hotel Benefit: Each calendar year, enjoy up to $300 off a hotel stay of two nights or more when booked through cititravel.com.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees
Solid Bonus & Rewards Plus Travel Perks
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
4.7
CardCritics™ Rating

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.

Read Full Review

Top Feature

Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

Purchase & Balance Transfer APR

19.99% – 28.99% (Variable)

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CardCritics™ Opinion

Capital One has continued to improve their rewards program over the past few years, making the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card a strong contender for those who want to earn travel rewards without worrying about category restrictions

Recommended Credit Score

Excellent, Good (670 – 850*)

Annual Fee

$95

Rewards

2x – 5x Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.

Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day.

Card Details From Issuer

  • Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
  • Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • Miles won’t expire for the life of the account and there’s no limit to how many you can earn
  • Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
  • Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
  • Enjoy a $50 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Lifestyle Collection
  • Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
Good for Travel and Gas
U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card
4.5
CardCritics™ Rating

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.

Read Full Review

Top Feature

Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 90 days of account opening.

Purchase & Balance Transfer APR

0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR applies, currently 17.99%-27.99%.

CardCritics™ Opinion

The U.S. Bank Altitude Connect punches above its weight, combining strong rewards earning on travel, gas and EV charging, dining, streaming, and groceries with perks you don’t typically see on no-annual-fee cards. For instance, cardholders receive four complimentary

Recommended Credit Score

Good – Excellent (670 – 850*)

Annual Fee

$0

Rewards

1X – 5X 5X points on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center

4X on travel

4X at gas stations and EV charging stations on your first $1,000 each quarter (excludes discount stores/supercenters and wholesale clubs)

2X on dining, streaming services and at grocery stores (excludes discount stores/supercenters and wholesale clubs)

1X point on all other eligible purchases

Card Details From Issuer

  • Intro Offer: Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 90 days of account opening. That’s a $200 value redeemable towards travel.
  • 5X points on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center.
  • 4X on travel.
  • 4X at gas stations and EV charging stations on your first $1,000 each quarter (excludes discount stores/supercenters and wholesale clubs).
  • 2X on dining, streaming services and at grocery stores (excludes discount stores/supercenters and wholesale clubs).
  • 1X point on all other eligible purchases.
  • Up to $100 in statement credits for TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry® toward your application fee once every four years.
  • Redeem points right away or save them for later. Points do not expire as long as the account remains active
  • Protection and assistance when traveling with Trip Cancellation/Interruption, Trip Delay Reimbursement and SmartDelay.
  • Complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership gives you 4 free visits to over 1,600 airport VIP lounges and experiences worldwide.
  • Terms and conditions apply.
Enticing Bonus Offer Worth $600
Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card
4.7
CardCritics™ Rating

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.

Read Full Review

Top Feature

Receive 60,000 online bonus points – a $600 value – after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening

Purchase & Balance Transfer APR

19.74% – 27.74% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

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CardCritics™ Opinion

Frequent travelers looking for flexibility in credit card rewards should take a serious look at the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card, especially if you are already a Bank of America® customer. This card offers elevated rewards

Recommended Credit Score

Excellent/Good (670 – 850*)

Annual Fee

$95

Rewards

1.5x – 2x Points Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases.

Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25% – 75% more points on every purchase.

Card Details From Issuer

  • Low $95 annual fee.
  • Receive 60,000 online bonus points – a $600 value – after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
  • Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases. No limit to the points you can earn and your points don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
  • If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means you could earn 2.5-3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 1.87 – 2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 you spend.
  • Redeem for cash back as a statement credit, deposit into eligible Bank of America® accounts, credit to eligible Merrill® accounts, or gift cards or purchases at the Bank of America Travel Center.
  • Get up to $100 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually and TSA PreCheck®/Global Entry Statement Credits of up to $100, every four years.
  • Travel Insurance protections to assist with trip delays, cancellations and interruptions, baggage delays and lost luggage.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Massive Bonus of 75,000 Points Worth $750
Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite Credit Card
4.2
CardCritics™ Rating

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.

Read Full Review

Top Feature

75,000 online bonus points — a $750 value — after you make at least $5,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening

Purchase & Balance Transfer APR

19.74% – 27.74% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

CardCritics™ Opinion

Bank of America customers who have substantial assets should not overlook the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite Credit Card as it offers high-value rewards and competitive travel benefits that are enhanced with Preferred Rewards status. However, the

Recommended Credit Score

Excellent/Good (670-850*)

Annual Fee

$550

Rewards

1.5x – 2x Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases
Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases

Card Details From Issuer

  • 75,000 bonus points after you make at least $5,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
  • Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases
  • Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Bank of America Preferred Rewards® members earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means you could earn up to 2.5 to 3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 1.87 to 2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 you spend.
  • No limit to the points you can earn and points don’t expire as long as the account remains open

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) that can significantly reduce your security screening time. Both programs require a background check, and your membership is valid for a period of five years. Credit cards offering a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry benefit typically will reimburse you for one program once every four years — but not both. I recommend using your benefit for Global Entry, since TSA PreCheck is included with your membership.

What Is TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck is an expedited security screening program used by over 90 airlines at more than 200 airports nationwide. You can access a dedicated line, which allows you to skip many aspects of traditional screening, such as removing shoes, laptops, 3-1-1 liquids, belts and light jackets. Members must provide their Known Traveler Number (KTN) during the booking process to access the expedited PreCheck lane. Children under 17 don’t need a membership if they are with an adult with a KTN.

What Is Global Entry?

Global Entry allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers entering the United States expedited clearance through US Customs and Border Patrol. US citizens, nationals, lawful permanent residents and select foreign citizens are eligible for this program. TSA PreCheck benefits are included with your membership, meaning you don’t need to apply for both programs. Members use facial recognition kiosks to quickly verify their identity, saving a significant amount of time upon returning to the US. Children of any age are required to have their own membership, unlike TSA PreCheck.

What Is CLEAR? 

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry aren’t your only options for skipping the line. Multiple premium American Express cards offer statement credits for CLEAR® Plus, a program that utilizes facial recognition to verify travelers. Once verified, you’ll be escorted to the front of the security line, including the TSA PreCheck line (if eligible).

CLEAR offers various pricing options and bundles that can include TSA PreCheck. Children under 17 don’t need a membership if they are with an active member. CLEAR offers expedited security screening at approximately 60 airports and 16 stadiums and arenas nationwide, with continued expansion. 

Choosing the Right Program for You

Your travel needs can help you decide which program is best between TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and CLEAR. I enrolled in CLEAR® Plus and Global Entry using my Amex Platinum Card, an advertising partner. I receive a statement credit for my application fees and get TSA PreCheck for free by having Global Entry, giving me every option with no out-of-pocket cost. Even at the busiest airports, I’ve never waited more than 10 minutes with CLEAR, and Global Entry has saved me multiple-hour waits when returning from an international trip.

The application process for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry differs slightly. If you apply for Global Entry, you won’t need to apply for TSA PreCheck.

Applying for TSA PreCheck 

You can submit your TSA PreCheck application online in just five minutes. Then, select a TSA Enrollment Center near you, where you can complete your enrollment in as quickly as 10 minutes. Officers will verify your documents, take your photos and fingerprints, and collect payment. Make sure to pay with a credit card with an eligible TSA PreCheck benefit to receive a statement credit for your application fee.

Applications are typically processed within a few days, but may take up to 60 days. Once approved, you’ll receive your KTN, which you’ll need to enter when booking flights to access TSA PreCheck lanes.

You can skip the in-person appointment by enrolling through CLEAR and completing your enrollment at a CLEAR enrollment location.

Applying for Global Entry 

The first step to apply for Global Entry is to create a TTP account, regardless of your age. Be sure to pay the non-refundable application fee with an eligible card to get reimbursed. You’ll need to wait until your application is reviewed and conditionally approved, which can take a significant amount of time. Unfortunately, there’s no way to know how long it will take. For example, my application was conditionally approved after a week, while my spouse’s application took well over three months.

Once you’ve been conditionally approved, you must schedule an in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. Agents will verify your documents, take your photos and collect biometric data. Appointments can sometimes be difficult to secure, so some patience and flexibility may be required. You can also conduct your interview upon arrival from an international location if you’re unable to secure a time that works for you.

After your interview, you’ll receive an approval notification and KTN via email that you can use for TSA PreCheck benefits. You’ll receive your physical Global Entry card in the mail in a few weeks.

A Global Entry credit card or credit cards with TSA PreCheck can save you a lot of time and hassle while traveling. Here are some of the benefits.

  • Expedited security screening: You can access dedicated security lanes to expedite your security clearance process, meaning you’ll spend significantly less time in line, even at the busiest of airports or customs checkpoints.
  • Reduced screening: Since you’ve been identified as a low-risk traveler, your initial screening will be faster and more efficient.
  • No need to unpack: TSA PreCheck lets you keep your shoes, belt and light jacket on and skip removing 3-1-1 liquids or laptops from your bag.
  • No paperwork: You won’t need to fill out paperwork with Global Entry. The facial recognition kiosk can get you through customs quickly.

A credit card that pays for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck can provide excellent value for frequent travelers. I recommend taking the extra time to sign up for Global Entry, since you’ll get membership in both programs. Even a single use of Global Entry can justify the cost, especially if you fly domestically and benefit from TSA PreCheck. 

It’s worth noting that this perk is generally only available once every four years on any card, and that the credit only covers the cost of one member of your household. If you have family members who travel with you regularly, you’ll need multiple cards with the TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit. I recommend keeping track of which card you used for each person and when you received the credit to avoid accidentally using the wrong card.

I don’t suggest getting a card just for this feature. Cards with statement credits for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry typically offer other travel benefits. Instead, consider the overall perk package, reward categories and annual fee cost when deciding which card is right for you.

If having expedited security access doesn’t interest you, here are some other categories of cards you could consider to bolster your travel experience.

Airline credit cards: If you fly regularly with the same airline, you’ll likely benefit from a co-branded airline card. These cards typically offer boosted rewards on purchases with their brand and perks like priority boarding, free baggage or seat upgrades. You could also earn elite status faster by spending on your card. Several airline credit cards offer TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credits, including:

Hotel credit cards: If you’re more interested in enhancing your accommodations, co-branded hotel cards could be for you. You can earn perks like higher rewards with the brand, free night certificates or automatic elite status. You may also enjoy additional features like room upgrades, early check-in and late checkout. Hotel credit cards with Global Entry and TSA PreCheck credits include:

Credit union cards: These cards require membership in a credit union, and many earn cash back or flexible travel rewards. A handful of credit union cards offer a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit, including:

The information related to the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card, Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite Credit Card, United℠ Explorer Card, United Quest℠ Card, The New United Club℠ Card, Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®, Aeroplan® Credit Card, Atmos™ Rewards Summit Visa Infinite® Credit Card, JetBlue Premier Card, One Key+™ Card, Choice Privileges® Select Mastercard®, Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card, USAA Eagle Navigator® Credit Card, PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card, Navy Federal Visa Signature® Flagship Rewards Card and Fidelity® Rewards Visa Signature® Credit Card was collected by CardCritics™ and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this product/card. Product details may vary. Please see issuer website for current information. CardCritics™ does not receive a commission for this product.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

Do any no-annual-fee cards have TSA PreCheck or Global Entry? 

Cards with TSA PreCheck or Global Entry typically charge annual fees, but can still be worth it if you can maximize the card’s features. However, a few no-annual-fee cards come with credits that can help cover the application fee, including the U.S. Bank Altitude Connect (up to $100 every four years) and Fidelity® Rewards Visa Signature® Credit Card (up to $100 every four years).

Can I have CLEAR without having TSA PreCheck?

Yes, you don’t need TSA PreCheck to enroll in CLEAR® Plus. You’ll still complete your biometric screening at a CLEAR pod. After you’re finished, you’ll be escorted to the front of the standard security line, where you’ll go through the standard screening process. 

When do I renew my Global Entry membership?

You can renew your membership up to one year before expiration. If your renewal isn’t finished processing by your expiration date, you can still use your benefits for up to 24 months. 

When do I renew my TSA PreCheck membership?

You can renew your membership online up to six months before expiration. However, you don’t get a grace period if your renewal isn’t completed by your expiration date. 

Do I need my Global Entry card?

You don’t need your physical card for air travel, but you will need your passport or permanent resident card. You’ll generally only need your Global Entry card at land and sea border crossings, SENTRI and NEXUS lanes, and to use Verified Traveller Screening Lanes at Canadian airports.


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