SENTRI
The Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection, also known as SENTRI, is one of four United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) programs. The other three are Global Entry, NEXUS, and FAST. This program is designed to allow expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers when crossing the border from Mexico into the United States.
If you have a SENTRI pass you may use designated lanes coming across the border which cuts your wait time by over 80% (during non-holidays and non-peak daytime hours). To be a part of the Trusted Travelers Program you MUST be pre-approved for SENTRI. All applicants must undergo a background check, in-person meeting, and have their car registered before enrollment begins.
All persons attempting to go through the SENTRI lanes without a valid SENTRI pass will be turned around and will have to go to the very back of the regular lines and start over. All passengers in the car MUST have a valid SENTRI pass in order to come across. If one person in the car does not have a SENTRI pass, it could compromise the drivers’ eligibility to remain in the Trusted Traveler program.
They take this very seriously so this is something that should not be taken lightly.
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How to Apply for SENTRI
Before applying, it’s always a smart idea to ensure you are eligible for SENTRI. You can see if you’re eligible here.
To apply for SENTRI, follow these steps:
- Create a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) account. Every person (even kids, regardless of age) applying for SENTRI must have their own TTP account.
- Log in to your TTP account and complete the application. You will be required to pay a non-refundable fee for each application.
- Once you’ve accepted your completed application and fee, the CBP will review your application. Assuming your application is conditionally approved, your TTP account will instruct you to schedule your in-person interview at a SENTRI Enrollment Center. Note: Each applicant must schedule a different interview.
- For the interview, you will need to bring your valid passport(s) and one other form of identification, such as a driver’s license or an ID card. If you happen to be a lawful permanent resident, you must present your permanent resident card at the time of the interview. You will also be required to bring your vehicle’s registration and evidence (such as a copy) of United States auto insurance by a company authorized to write about automobile insurance in the U.S.
SENTRI Application Fees
Application Fee: $25 per person (or a maximum of $50 for husband, wife, and minor children)
Fingerprint Fee: $14.50 (applicants 14 years old and older)
System Cost Fee: $82.75 per person (or a maximum of $165.50 for a husband, wife, and minor children)
Total Fee: $122.25 per person
You may pay by credit card, certified check, money order, or through an electronic bank transfer. However, while filling out the application form for your TTP program, you must use a credit/debit card. All fees are non-refundable.
Other Fees
If you would like to register more than one vehicle for use the in the SENTRI DCL lane (maxmium of 4 vehicles), or you wish to be registered in more than one vehicle (maximum of 8 people per vehicle), an additional fee of $42 per vehicle will be assessed.
If you lose your SENTRI card, a fee of $25 will be required for a replacement of the lost, stolen, or damaged card.
*SENTRI FAQ’s can be found here.
Locating the SENTRI Lanes
SENTRI Enrollment Centers
Location:
San Ysidro, California Enrollment Center
Address:
405 Virginia Avenue
San Diego, CA 92173
Business Hours:
6am – 2pm Monday through Friday
Phone:
(619) 690-7600
Location:
Otay Mesa, California Enrollment Center
Address:
2500 Paseo Internacional
San Diego, CA 92143
Business Hours:
6am – 10pm Monday through Friday
Phone:
(619) 690-7600
Location:
Calexico, California Enrollment Center
Address:
1699 East Carr Road
Calexico, CA 92231
Business Hours:
8am – 4pm Monday through Friday
