I got Global Entry because I thought it would guarantee me TSA Pre for domestic flights, as well as a smoother reentry into the US after international travel. GE offered pretty much the same benefits as TSA Pre alone, for just a bit more money. Or so I thought. After not receiving it a few times, I googled around and found on TSA’s website, that TSA Pre is never guaranteed with GE. However, I found some ways around it that have gotten me into the TSA Pre line every time. As a disclaimer, I usually fly with American Airlines, so your mileage may vary depending on the airport and the airline.

Here’s a quick tip sheet on increasing your chances of getting TSA Pre every time, when you’ve only got Global Entry.

When I didn’t get TSA Pre the first few times after receiving my Global Entry card, I realized I was doing it wrong. You must enter your known traveler number, or KTN, on the airline’s website to get TSA Pre. You can enter it at the time of ticket purchase when you enter all your other personal information, or when you are checking in online. Just make sure you do this BEFORE your boarding pass is issued of course.

There are a few different numbers on the back of your Global Entry card, and I wasn’t sure at first, which was the current KTN. Enter only the nine digit number that follows your ID, leaving off the alpha-numerics on the end. I made this mistake many times, and wondered why the system was never picking up on my membership number.

If you forget to enter your KTN at the time of online check in and you don’t see that beautiful TSA Pre logo on your boarding pass, it’s not too late! Just head to any kiosk at the airport and check in again; make sure to enter your nine-digit KTN and get your boarding pass reissued. I’ve done this a few times now, and it’s worked like a charm.

I have to mention that I tried this with Delta, but their kiosks did not give me the option to update any personal information besides basics like name and phone number. If you have time to talk to a live person though, they will likely be able to enter your information in time for your flight. I’ve always found it worth it to spend a few extra minutes getting a new boarding pass rather than waiting in the long lines at the security checkpoints. Not to mention, I get to keep my shoes on.