What is SENTRI?

Crossing the border on the way back to the U.S. from Mexico can take time, and lines can get long. With the SENTRI pass, travelers can cut down wait times and get through the checkpoints faster. Learn more about the benefits of SENTRI and how to apply.

Key takeaways

• The SENTRI pass lets travelers returning from Mexico reenter the U.S. through expedited lanes by car or on foot.

• You’ll need to apply, pay a fee and schedule an in-person interview to become a SENTRI member.

• The SENTRI program also lets members access Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® and NEXUS.

SENTRI helps low-risk travelers enter the U.S. from Mexico more quickly. It’s a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) run by the Department of Homeland Security that costs $120 for a five-year membership.

Expedited processing at the border is available to SENTRI members entering the U.S. on land, either on foot or by vehicle. SENTRI pass holders may also be able to access Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® and NEXUS.

SENTRI pass holders can head to dedicated lanes at U.S. border crossing checkpoints from Mexico. These specified lanes speed up reentry, helping reduce wait times. 

When arriving at the checkpoint, you’ll need your SENTRI card. The card has radio frequency identification that helps the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer identify the car and its pass holders. You’ll be either allowed through or held for additional inspection.

To cross the border by car, you can add your vehicle license information for free while applying or after for a fee.

You can get a SENTRI pass by creating a TTP account, filling out the application and paying the fee. If your application is conditionally approved, you’ll schedule an in-person interview at a SENTRI Enrollment Center in Arizona, California, New Mexico or Texas.

You’ll want to bring your passport and an additional form of ID, as well as your vehicle registration and proof of auto insurance if you’re planning to travel by car.

The SENTRI pass can help low-risk travelers visiting Mexico save time at the border when reentering the U.S. by vehicle or on foot. The enrollment fee is $120, and it grants members access to Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® and NEXUS.

There are a few ways to be eligible for the SENTRI pass, including:

• Be 18 years old or have a parent’s permission

• Fill out the application accurately and completely

• Have a clean criminal record

• Be legally allowed to enter the U.S.

• Satisfy CBP’s requirements for low-risk travelers

If you don’t meet these requirements or don’t visit Mexico often, you may benefit more from another TTP.

If you're a low-risk traveler but aren’t sure the SENTRI pass is right for you, there are other programs available:

• TSA PreCheck®: TSA PreCheck® helps speed up airport security wait times for people who travel often within the U.S. Members can avoid long lines at the airport and pass through security without removing things like shoes, a belt, a laptop or small liquids. TSA PreCheck® costs $78 or $85 for a five-year membership, depending on the provider.

• Global Entry: Global Entry might be helpful for travelers who head abroad at least four times a year. Members can move more quickly through customs when reentering the U.S. by using Global Entry kiosks at certain airports. A Global Entry membership costs $120 and lasts for five years.

• NEXUS: NEXUS allows members to reenter the U.S. from Canada more quickly on foot or by car, boat or plane. It costs $120 for five years.

Keep in mind that SENTRI pass holders can use these programs without having to pay additional enrollment fees. For those traveling between Mexico and the U.S. often, SENTRI could be a good choice.

The SENTRI pass can help travelers save time when returning to the U.S. from Mexico by car or on foot and includes access to other TTPs. But choosing another TTP might be a more affordable choice for those who instead travel often within the U.S., to Canada or to other international destinations.

If you’re interested in Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®, some Capital One travel cards offer cardholders up to a $120 statement credit for the enrollment fee.* Compare travel card options.