DUI & Global Entry: Can a Past Mistake Affect Travel Plans?

Can One DUI Ruin Your Ability to Travel Freely?

You’re planning an international trip and want to avoid long security lines. Global Entry seems like the perfect solution—until your application gets denied due to a DUI from years ago.

So, does a DUI automatically disqualify you from Global Entry, or is there a way to appeal and get approved? The answer isn’t always black and white.

Quick Answer: A DUI can disqualify you from Global Entry, but not always. Factors like the age of the offense, whether it was a conviction, and your overall record play a role.

Keep reading to learn:
✅ How a DUI affects Global Entry eligibility
✅ What you can do if you’ve been denied
✅ Other crimes that may disqualify you
✅ How to appeal a Global Entry denial

What is Global Entry?

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that offers expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers entering the United States [1].

To qualify, applicants must:

• Undergo a detailed background check
• Pass an in-person interview
• Prove they have no serious criminal record

If approved, members can bypass regular customs lines by using automated kiosks at select airports.

But what happens if you have a DUI on your record?

Can You Get Global Entry with a DUI?

A DUI can impact your Global Entry application, but the final decision depends on:

1. Was it a Conviction or Just an Arrest?

• Conviction: A DUI conviction makes approval more difficult, but not impossible, depending on how much time has passed.
• Arrest Without Conviction: Even if you weren’t convicted, an arrest could still raise red flags in your background check.

2. How Long Ago Was the DUI?

• If your DUI happened over 10 years ago, you have a better chance of approval than someone with a recent offense.
• Some applicants with DUIs older than 7 years have successfully been approved.

3. Were There Multiple DUIs or Other Charges?

• A single DUI may not automatically disqualify you.
• Multiple DUIs or additional criminal charges (such as reckless driving or drug-related offenses) make it far less likely that you’ll be approved.

4. Was the DUI Expunged?

• Expunged DUIs do not always disappear from CBP records.
• If your DUI was expunged, you may need to provide proof of expungement when applying.

Which Other Crimes Disqualify You From Global Entry?

Aside from DUIs, the following criminal offenses can disqualify applicants:

How to Appeal a Global Entry Denial Due to a DUI

If you were denied Global Entry because of a DUI, you can appeal the decision.

Step-by-Step Appeal Process:

1. Request a Reconsideration Letter from CBP through the Trusted Traveler Program website.
2. Gather supporting documents (court records, proof of expungement, reference letters).
3. Explain why you are still a low-risk traveler.
4. Wait for CBP’s response—this can take several months.

Common Myths About DUIs & Global Entry

Myth: A DUI automatically disqualifies you.
Fact: Some applicants with older or expunged DUIs can still qualify.

Myth: If my DUI was dismissed, I’m safe.
Fact: Arrests without convictions can still appear on background checks.

Myth: CBP only looks at U.S. records.
Fact: DUIs from other countries can also impact eligibility.

Privacy Concerns: Can CBP See Expunged Records?

Many applicants worry about how much information CBP can access.

• CBP has access to expunged and sealed records in some cases.
• Fingerprint biometrics and law enforcement databases are checked.
• CBP shares some data with other government agencies.

Related Article: 24 High Paying Jobs You Can Get With a DUI

See all related DUI lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

FAQs

1. Can I Get Global Entry With a First-Time DUI?

Yes, but approval depends on factors like when the DUI happened and whether it resulted in a conviction.

2. How Long Should I Wait To Apply After a DUI?

Most successful applicants wait at least 7-10 years after a DUI conviction before applying.

3. Can I Apply For Global Entry if My DUI Was Expunged?

You can apply, but you may still need to disclose the DUI during the background check.

4. What If I Was denied Global Entry Due To a DUI?

You can appeal the denial by requesting a reconsideration and providing evidence that you are a low-risk traveler.

Denied Global Entry? Get Legal Help Today

If a DUI or past criminal record is preventing you from obtaining Global Entry, you may have options. Our experienced attorneys at Schmidt & Clark, LLP can:

✔ Review your record and determine if you’re eligible
✔ Help you appeal a denial
✔ Provide legal guidance on expungement and reconsideration

📞 Call (866) 588-0600 for a Free Consultation

References:

1. https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry