Trusted traveler program cuts Customs waits

Jet-lagged business travelers eager to get home or globe-trotting vacationers rushing to make a connecting flight can avoid lineups at Customs through a new security clearance program starting at O'Hare International Airport.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials Wednesday gave details of the Global Entry Trusted Traveler Program, which is expected to shave about 30 minutes off the average wait time for international passengers arriving back in America.

After applying online and undergoing an interview, trusted travelers receive a sticker that goes on their passports or green cards. Users can go to one of four kiosks in Terminal 5, scan their documentation, provide thumb prints and answer standard questions. If everything checks out, the computer prints out a receipt that allows them to bypass Customs lines.

The entire process is expected to take 68 seconds compared to the 35 minutes it can take to wait in line and talk to an officer, Customs Director of Operations for Chicago David Murphy said.

Allowing trustworthy passengers to automatically check through saves customs officers time and allows them to concentrate on high-risk travelers and goods, authorities said.

Overall, "99.9 percent of travelers are legitimate. It's the .1 percent we need to focus on," Customs Supervisor Brian Bell said.

To be eligible, an applicant needs to be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident, 14 years or older and pay a $100 fee. Trusted travelers will be subject to random screenings occasionally.

People with felony or misdemeanor records or those who have violated Customs regulations previously do not qualify.

Computer records are updated every 24 hours so Global Entry members who break the law after qualifying will be kicked out.

"Global entry has a zero tolerance for violations," Murphy said.

Global entry pilot programs started in June at JFK International, Houston's George Bush Intercontinental and Washington Dulles International airports.

To apply or get information, contact globalentry.gov or cbp.gov. Online applicants that receive preliminary approval will be required to do an in-person interview at the Global Entry enrollment center at Terminal 5. Office hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays.