Flying seems to be getting more complicated, yet somehow easier. TSA PreCheck and Clear are designed to get you where you need to be faster, while Global Entry is intended to make the customs process easier.
Here’s a breakdown of each option:
TSA PreCheck
What It Is: This is a Trusted Traveler Program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA). According to TSA, it is available at more than 200 airports, with more than 90 participating airlines nationwide.
Eligibility: U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals and U.S. lawful permanent residents
How It Works: “As a TSA PreCheck member, you’ll be able to access the expedited TSA PreCheck security line and complete airport security without going through the hassle of removing your shoes, belt or light jacket. You’ll also be able to leave laptops and TSA-approved liquids and gels in your carry-on. Occasionally, passengers are randomly selected for traditional airport security screening and are unable to use the TSA PreCheck expedited security line for that flight. Many people consider the designated TSA PreCheck security line and faster security clearance to be the primary benefit of TSA PreCheck — but being able to keep your shoes on during the process is a huge plus.” (Bankrate.com)
“TSA PreCheck members pass through a traditional metal detector rather than a full body scanner (which some people find invasive). And you’ll usually get through security much faster: According to the TSA, more than 89% of PreCheck-eligible passengers waited five minutes or less in March 2023.” (Nerdwallet.com)
How to Sign Up: Travelers can apply online and then are required to visit an enrollment location before they receive their Known Traveler Number (KTN).
Enrollment fee: $78 to $85 for five years
Renewal fee: $70 to $78
Bonus Tip: Some travel credit cards offer reimbursement for TSA PreCheck membership.
CLEAR
What It Is: Unlike TSA PreCheck, CLEAR is operated by a private company and not available in nearly as many airports as TSA PreCheck. But its goal remains the same: Saving time during the security screening process. A CLEAR pod at designated airports verifies a traveler’s identity with that person’s eyes or fingerprints rather than a government-issued photo ID.
How It Works: “CLEAR allows you to skip the security line completely because instead of waiting in line, you approach a CLEAR kiosk where your ID and boarding pass are verified through biometric technology. Once that quick process is complete, a CLEAR agent escorts you right to the front of security. No waiting required.” (Nerdwallet.com)
“CLEAR has been Safety Act certified by the Department of Homeland Security, and CLEAR kiosks are available at over 50 airports, stadiums and arenas across the U.S. … CLEAR also offers two free plans: a Sports and Events pass through the CLEAR app that helps shorten the time it takes to enter sports venues, and a Health Pass that allows you to share both your COVID-19 vaccination status and any recent negative test results with airport, arena and venue personnel.” (Bankrate.com)
How to Sign Up: Begin the enrollment process online, and then finish it at any CLEAR airport location; no appointment required.
Enrollment fee: $189 for 12 months. Add up to three adult family members for $50 each per year; kids under 18 are free and don’t need to enroll.
Bonus Tip: “There’s not many situations where you would get much value out of having both TSA PreCheck and CLEAR. Generally speaking, TSA PreCheck provides the most value for most travelers. A frequent traveler who uses CLEAR in many other situations could get some value from both programs.” (Time.com)
Global Entry
What It Is: This is another federal Trusted Traveler Program, but it is operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, not TSA. Benefits kick in after a flight by simplifying and expediting the U.S. customs screening process for frequent international air travelers when entering the United States. TSA PreCheck is included with Global Entry membership, and an in-person interview is required to obtain Global Entry status.
Eligibility: U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents and select foreign nationals
How It Works: “The good news is that if you’re conditionally approved, you’re almost at the finish line: You’ve already been pre-screened, and your information has been checked by the government. Many of the questions you’ll be asked [during the in-person interview] are ones you’ve already answered on your application, or ones that officials already have the answers to, like: ‘Why do you want to join Global Entry? What do you do for a living? Where have you traveled in the past five years? Have you ever been arrested, or had an issue at U.S. Customs and Border Protection?’ … At the appointment — which should last anywhere from 10 to 15 minutes — you’ll also have to provide your fingerprints and, as mentioned above, get your photo taken. Within a few minutes you’ll be confirmed for Global Entry (yay!) and be given a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that you can start using immediately to be eligible for TSA PreCheck.” (CNTraveler.com)
“The downside? Applying for Global Entry is more of a hassle than TSA PreCheck.” (Nerdwallet.com)
How to Sign Up: Travelers can enroll online; applicants who are conditionally approved can complete their interviews upon arrival into the United States at an Enrollment on Arrival location or by scheduling an appointment at an Enrollment Center. Travelers also can complete Global Entry enrollment at an Enrollment on Arrival location as an alternative to scheduling an interview at an Enrollment Center.
Enrollment fee: $100 for five years ; note that the application-processing time typically is four to six months.
Bonus Tip: Frequent flyers under 18 also are eligible for Global Entry, but they must have permission from a parent or legal guardian.
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