GE program - I just requested a card from them, does that affect me?
 

Hi, I just requested a GE card from the Global Entry system. Does that affect me in any way until I get the card? Can I still use Global Entry with my passport until I receive the card? What is the benefit of the card (besides paying the $15 fee for it...)?

The real benefit is traveling by land between the US and Canada/Mexico.

Once you get the approved email after your interview, you are active in the system and can use one of the GE kiosks.

I got the card and I use it for ID as TSA checkpoints. That's about it for me.

I am already approved for GOES. I was approved years ago. So, what is this extra card?

I have to go for another interview? I already have the CBP sticker on the back of my passport, went for an interview and was approved for GOES in 2009.

Nothing special required to get the card. You just ask for it, pay the $15 and it comes in the mail.

The card is used for land crossings at Sentri/Nexus lanes. I don't use it for this (just as ID for TSA screening). Probably a waste of $15 in retrospect for me.

The card allows one to cross the border without a passport as it is a WHTI compliant document.

The card does NOT allow one to use the NEXUS lanes at land crossings into Canada as the person hasn't been interviewed by the CBSA.

Thanks for clarifying. I was going off the GE website.

Global Entry started giving the cards free with GE approval a couple of years ago. Anyone approved before then (I'm in same boat) can pay $15 and have the card sent to them. I haven't personally seen the need.