Can a DUI Affect Global Entry?

By Jonathan Blecher on October 15, 2018

Do you travel abroad frequently through Miami International Airport (MIA) or through any other U.S. airport with Global Entry Kiosks? If so, I assume you’re a frequent traveler and most likely because of your occupation, though you may travel frequently for pleasure.

If you are a proud member of the Global Entry Program, you know, membership has its perks, namely you’re processed much faster at select airports and you can be on your way to baggage claim while other international travelers are held up at customs.

For those new to the Global Entry Program, it’s a program established by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It was designed for pre-screened, pre-approved, low-risk travelers so they can enjoy expedited processing when their flights land in the U.S.

If you’re a member of the Global Entry Program, when you land at a select U.S. airport, you’d walk off your flight and proceed to
a Global Entry Kiosk. Next, you’d present your machine-readable passport or your Green Card, have a fingerprint scan for verification, then you’d finish your customs declaration. You’d take your transaction receipt provided by the kiosk and head over to baggage claim, leaving other travelers in the dust.

Losing Eligibility for Global Entry

Due to threats against national security, not everyone can be a member of the Global Entry Program. First, applicants must pass a rigorous background check and then they must maintain a spotless record. You may be disqualified from the Global Entry Program if you:

  • Lie on your Global Entry application.
  • Provide false information on your application.
  • Are facing any criminal charges, including DUI.
  • Have outstanding warrants against you.
  • Are being investigated by a state or federal law enforcement agency.
  • Are convicted of any criminal offense, including misdemeanor DUI.

Related: Will a DUI Prevent Me from Travelling Abroad?

If you travel frequently and rely on the Global Entry Program to get in and out of international airports quickly, your membership in the program is at risk if you’re facing DUI charges. To discuss your defense options, feel free to contact my firm to schedule a free case evaluation.

Back To Blog