clear travel program vs tsa precheck

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TSA PreCheck vs. Clear: What to Know

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Table of Contents

The difference between Clear and TSA PreCheck

What is tsa precheck, what is clear at the airport, is clear better than precheck, tsa precheck vs. global entry vs. clear, final thoughts on choosing clear or tsa precheck.

TSA PreCheck and Clear can both get you through airport security faster. But which is better?

Here’s a look at the benefits, requirements and price of TSA PreCheck versus Clear to help you decide which will work best for you — and whether you should get both. Plus, learn all the ways you can get one (or both) for free .

Here are three main differences between Clear and TSA PreCheck:

Bypassing security vs. shortening the wait. TSA PreCheck allows you to go through a shorter security line and undergo less strict screening requirements (i.e. don’t need to take off shoes). 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.

Cost. TSA PreCheck costs $78 for five years while Clear costs $189 per year.

Organization type. Clear is owned by a private company while TSA PreCheck is a government program.

One program doesn’t replace the other. They are complementary to one another.

TSA PreCheck and Clear aren’t available at every airport, so many frequent travelers find it best to have memberships to both. This improves the odds of faster and smoother airport experiences.

Luckily, there are many credit cards that completely cover the cost of both programs, allowing you to pay nothing out-of-pocket for both benefits.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards might surprise you

TSA PreCheck , managed by the Transportation Security Administration, is available to low-risk travelers who undergo an advance screening process. Open to U.S. citizens and certain foreign citizens, this includes a background check to determine eligibility for passing through airport security without having follow certain protocols.

Examples include removing your shoes and belt, taking out liquids or electronics (like laptop computers), and taking off outer garments, like a light jacket.

How does TSA PreCheck work?

Once you’re approved for TSA PreCheck, you’re issued a Known Traveler Number, which you provide to your airline by storing it in your frequent flyer account or entering it into your reservation . Your boarding passes will henceforth include a TSA PreCheck designation that authorizes you to use an expedited security screening lane in more than 200 domestic airports. More than 85 domestic and international airlines participate in the program.

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.

TSA doesn't guarantee expedited screening with PreCheck. Occasionally, you may have to go through a random secondary check of your bags by security personnel.

If the TSA PreCheck designation doesn't appear on your boarding pass, you can ask an airline agent to reenter your information. This usually fixes the problem, and an agent can reprint the boarding pass with the necessary TSA PreCheck information.

» Learn more: Skip long lines at the airport — without spending a dime

How to apply for TSA PreCheck

U.S. citizens and foreign citizens who meet particular residency requirements are eligible to apply online and pay the $78 fee (good for five years and easy to renew online for $70 per renewal after five years). After applying online and receiving conditional approval, your final application step is to visit an enrollment center for a brief interview.

Children under 12 can also apply, but if you travel with them, they can also access the TSA PreCheck line with you without paying to be a member. Children 13-17 years old can also accompany TSA PreCheck member parents/guardians but must have the TSA PreCheck indicator on their boarding pass to do so.

WANT TSA PRECHECK FOR FREE?

A number of popular travel credit cards reimburse you for the application fee for trusted traveler programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry. (A TSA PreCheck fee waiver is also available as an optional reward for Platinum members of the Orbitz Rewards program .) Among those cards:

If your credit card offers reimbursement for the application fee for programs like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, you must pay the fee with the card. You cannot submit a claim for reimbursement if you paid with some other method. Reimbursement will usually appear as a statement credit in your account within two months.

Cards typically offer reimbursement of only one fee once every four to five years. Check the terms and conditions of your card for the specific rules that apply. Note also that these cards only reimburse the application fee for a trusted traveler program. They don't automatically enroll you in the program or guarantee that you'll be accepted by the program. You still have to apply and go through the required screening, which in the case of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry includes an in-person appointment.

Aeroplan® Credit Card .

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card .

Chase Sapphire Reserve® .

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® .

Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card .

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card .

IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card .

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card .

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card .

The Platinum Card® from American Express .

Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card .

United Club℠ Infinite Card .

United℠ Explorer Card .

United Quest℠ Card .

U.S. Bank Altitude™ Reserve Visa Infinite® Card .

Terms apply.

» SEE the best credit cards that pay for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry

If you have been approved for Global Entry, you do not need to apply separately for TSA PreCheck. It comes automatically with Global Entry, so do not double pay.

If you travel internationally often, applying for Global Entry would make more sense, but if you are a mostly domestic traveler, you should stick to TSA PreCheck as the application process is simpler.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards

Using biometric data to identify travelers (rather than manually checking photo identification), Clear machines allow flyers to bypass long security queues and get to a TSA screening point faster. Clear does not include the membership features of TSA PreCheck, however.

After passing through a Clear kiosk, if you have PreCheck, you can go directly to the PreCheck lane (ahead of other passengers waiting in line); if not, you must use the regular screening line (also ahead of other passengers waiting in line). The real benefit of Clear is saving time.

This means that if you value not having to remove shoes, electronics, liquids and outerwear, you will also want to apply for TSA PreCheck. If you only want to bypass the line, but don't mind removing items and passing through a body scanner, then Clear may be worth it on its own.

Unlike TSA PreCheck, Clear is only available at a few dozen domestic airports. Members use a faster line to scan their fingerprint or iris before moving directly to the security lane. Clear is also available at other venues that require lining up for a security check, like stadiums.

As an added perk, Clear membership will also get you complimentary Avis Preferred Plus status with Avis's loyalty program . Avis Preferred Plus status includes perks like:

A free, single-car class upgrade upon availability.

The ability to earn additional bonus points on each rental.

Access to exclusive offers and promotional discounts.

You would typically need to spend $4,000 on qualifying Avis purchases or complete 10 rentals in a calendar year to qualify for Avis Preferred Plus.

How to apply for Clear

You can apply for Clear online or at an airport Clear kiosk by showing valid government-issued identification. Unlike TSA PreCheck, there is no background check needed to apply for Clear, although you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident 18 or older.

Clear costs $189 for an annual membership (auto-renewals are possible and do not require any additional verification), and members can add up to three family members for an additional $60 per person. Children under 18 can use a Clear lane for free if they are traveling with a Clear member.

Clear offers a free two-month trial if you want to test it out, and if you are a United Premier 1K or Delta Diamond Medallion member, you get an annual membership free of charge. Other Delta and United elite members get a discount.

Cards that offer Clear membership

Several cards will reimburse you if you pay for Clear membership with the card. This includes The Platinum Card® from American Express , the American Express® Green Card and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express . Each offers a statement credit up to $189 per year for purchasing Clear access. Other cards offering a fee credit for the Clear application include the United℠ Explorer Card , United Club℠ Infinite Card and Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card .

Since TSA PreCheck is available at more airports and provides expedited security wait times, as well as an easier screening process, TSA PreCheck is better than Clear if you want to only get one. Those with Clear membership only have access to faster security lanes. Without TSA PreCheck, Clear members must still remove their shoes, electronics, liquids and outerwear.

But the choice of TSA PreCheck versus Clear doesn't have to be an either-or proposition. Many TSA PreCheck members value having Clear, as it further expedites moving ahead of the occasionally long TSA PreCheck lane in dozens of airports.

Still, TSA PreCheck remains the best way to make your way airside without wasting time in lines.

The only real upside to having Clear alone, without TSA PreCheck, is if you plan to use it exclusively at stadiums, where it will get you to the front of the line faster.

Not all U.S. citizens will be approved for TSA PreCheck for various reasons, including problems with a background check. If that’s you, Clear alone can be worthwhile if you fly regularly from an airport that has Clear lanes.

» Learn more: How Known Traveler Numbers work

Many travelers learning the differences between TSA PreCheck and Clear often have questions about another popular Trusted Traveler program, Global Entry. Here is a closer look at TSA PreCheck versus Global Entry versus Clear.

TSA PreCheck is the best option for frequent travelers. If you can apply for and afford both TSA PreCheck and Clear, you are even better off. Why waste time in line when you can be on your way to the gate or a comfortable airport lounge ?

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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1.5%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

$300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

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75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

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TSA PreCheck vs. Clear: Which Should You Choose?

Everything you need to know before applying for TSA PreCheck and Clear.

Before boarding an airplane, airport security takes you on a journey: First, you'll have to find the right line, then show your ID, take out your laptop, and remove your shoes. It’s poetic in a perverse way that these often-confusing airport security rules are simplified and sped up by two similarly bewildering programs, TSA PreCheck and Clear , which each have dedicated queues and reasons for existence. But what are those reasons, and which one is best?

The first thing to know is there are two primary components of airport security, ID verification and luggage-and-body screening. Clear speeds up the former, and TSA PreCheck speeds up the latter. As for how they both work, let’s dig in. 

What is TSA PreCheck?

Bloomberg/Contributor/Getty Images

Run by the government’s Transportation Security Administration, TSA PreCheck aims to quickly get you and your belongings through security at over 200 U.S. airports. More than 85 airlines participate, and if you're registered it will be indicated on your boarding pass, which grants you access to the dedicated lane. Once a Transportation Security Officer (TSO) verifies your ID, you can leave your shoes, belt, and jacket on, and keep your laptop and liquids in your carry-on luggage. You can also walk through a metal detector rather than the full-body scanner. 

The program doesn’t guarantee you’ll get through security faster, and, indeed, so many people are now clued into TSA PreCheck that the line can sometimes be as long as the general one or even longer. But you’ll typically have a smoother experience than if you had nothing. 

What is Clear? 

UCG / Contributor / Getty Images

Clear is a private membership program that expedites document and identity screening. Currently available at more than 50 U.S. airports, Clear Plus allows you to quickly verify your identity at biometric security kiosks using fingerprints and eye scans. When your ID is confirmed, a Clear representative escorts you directly to the luggage and body scanner line, allowing you to skip past everyone waiting for an agent to check their physical IDs.

The service isn't limited to airports either. You can also bypass parts of security at select U.S. stadiums and arenas , such as Yankee Stadium and Madison Square Garden, by using Clear kiosks, so sports and music fans might find this perk compelling. Additional features let you skip the line and go straight to your rental car at certain Avis locations, and reserve a spot in a security line in select domestic and international airports. 

How much do TSA PreCheck and Clear cost?

TSA PreCheck costs $78 every five years, and is automatically included with Global Entry membership, though that's another program entirely. Clear Plus — the airport service — costs $189 per year, while the general Clear service is free to use at stadiums and arenas around the U.S. once you sign up and download the app. Children ages 17 and under are allowed to join you in the Clear Plus line; for an extra $70 per person, you can add access for up to three more adults, whether family members or friends.

If you're a member of the U.S. military or a U.S. government employee, Clear discounts may be available. Some travel rewards credit cards offer access to one or both programs for free (they'll usually provide you with a credit to cover the membership fees), so look into your perks to see if they tip the scale one way or the other.

Do you need TSA PreCheck if you have Clear?

If you want to keep your shoes on, Clear won’t help you since it's only used to speed up the identity verification process. There’s no one stopping you from applying for both, though.

Can you use Clear and TSA PreCheck together?

Yes. If you’re a frequent flier, it might make sense to get Clear so you can zip through identity verification and then get placed on the TSA PreCheck luggage screening line, where you can keep your shoes on, leave your laptop in your bag, and skip the scanner.

How do you apply for TSA PreCheck and Clear?

For TSA PreCheck, you’ll need to fill out an online form , pay the application fee, and go for a short in-person interview at one of the hundreds of enrollment centers . You will be fingerprinted and photographed, and you'll have to pass a background check. The approval process can take anywhere from three to 60 days. Once you're approved, you'll receive a Known Traveler Number, which you can add to your airline reservations whenever you purchase tickets. Anyone over the age of 12 can join; children 12 and under can use the lanes with a parent or guardian who is a member. 

Similarly, Clear Plus (for use at the airport) requires online enrollment and an in-person element. You can finish the application at a Clear airport location, where an ambassador will help you answer a few identifying questions; scan your fingerprints, eyes, and identification documents; and take a profile picture. Children under 18 can use the Clear lane if they’re traveling with a member. If you're only planning to use Clear at stadiums and arenas, simply download the app, create a free account, and follow the instructions. A selfie and some personal information are all that's needed to secure a QR code to flash when you get there.

Is TSA PreCheck better than Clear?

Both programs operate separate queues that can cut down the time you spend in line, and Clear has added benefits for sports and music fans. However, TSA PreCheck is available at more locations, is less expensive, and allows you to skip the rigamarole of removing your shoes, belt, and laptop in front of a TSO who is seemingly tired of telling people to put their belongings in a bin.

TSA PreCheck vs. Clear: Which Program Is Better for Frequent Travelers? 

By Ramsey Qubein

Which is better: TSA PreCheck vs Clear? The answer depends on which airports you typically fly from, as not every airport has both options. Both are primarily for domestic air travelers or when flying internationally from (but not to) the United States. For those entering the U.S., Global Entry is another solution that could move you closer to the front of the line at customs and immigration. 

Most of these expedited security programs have a fee to join, but there are ways to get access for free. Each program serves slightly different purposes for different kinds of travelers. Here’s what to know about the programs and how to get either (or both) of them for free.

What is Clear membership vs TSA PreCheck?

No pun intended, the benefit of Clear vs TSA PreCheck is, well, very clear. Clear membership is a fast pass to the front of the general security line while TSA PreCheck, which is run by the government's Transportation Security Administration, has a dedicated lane that leads to a separate line that avoids extra security screening. If you have both, using Clear membership to get to the front of the TSA PreCheck line is the most “pro” move ever. Clear saves you time standing in line and TSA PreCheck keeps you from having to remove shoes and laptops at security. Without Clear, the TSA PreCheck line can sometimes be longer than expected.

Clear works by using biometric data to identify travelers instead of having someone review your boarding pass and photo identification to make sure they match. Clear kiosks do the work, after which you move immediately to the front of whichever line you qualify for based on whether or not you have TSA PreCheck.

If you only have PreCheck, you’ll avoid extra security screening, but you must still wait in the PreCheck line. Clear helps you avoid queueing no matter what line you stand in at security. As TSA PreCheck becomes more common amongst travelers, Clear is an added bonus that can prove to be a huge time saver.

Who can apply for TSA PreCheck vs. Clear?

There are differences in the application process, and both involve a fee. Attaining a Clear ID is simpler as it does not require the same type of security or background check plus in-person appointment at an enrollment center that TSA PreCheck does.

Both TSA PreCheck and Clear are only available to U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents. with government-issued identification. You can sign up for Clear at any Clear kiosk in the airport by providing government ID and submitting to a fingerprint and iris scan procedure. It takes about five minutes while TSA PreCheck requires a bit more time to join.

A major difference between Clear ID vs TSA PreCheck is that Clear does not require an interview to join. TSA PreCheck, on the other hand, requires a background and security check as well as a brief interview at an acceptance facility to apply. Another key difference is that the TSA PreCheck membership, which costs $85, is valid for five years. Clear membership, which costs $189, is valid only for a year.

Family members can benefit from these programs, too. Children under 18 don’t pay membership fees to join Clear, and they can use the Clear lane only when traveling with another member. Also, children under the age of 12 can use the PreCheck expedited security line for free when traveling with a parent or guardian who is a TSA PreCheck member. So, both programs prove useful for those traveling with kids .

Is TSA PreCheck better than Clear?

Yes. For most people, TSA PreCheck is better than Clear because it is available in more airports and makes passing through airport security less cumbersome. Having only Clear does not permit you to use an expedited security line.

TSA PreCheck is available to use when flying more than 80 airlines from more than 200 U.S. airports, while Clear is an option at more than 50 airports and stadiums. That means that Clear can get you to the front of the line at certain sporting or concert events at stadiums, too. Still, TSA PreCheck is available in more places and offers more security lane benefits since you don’t have to remove shoes, light jackets, or electronic devices.

Another reason why TSA PreCheck trumps Clear is that it is automatically included for those who are approved for Global Entry, which requires a much more stringent series of security review and interview requirements. If approved for Global Entry, you are automatically enrolled in TSA PreCheck, which is a nice perk, since both are trusted traveler programs. Clear is a completely separate program that has its own registration process.

Frequent international travelers can save time by applying for Global Entry first since it comes with TSA PreCheck if you are approved. If you stick with travel between American borders, Clear will bring you to the front of the TSA line. But, without TSA PreCheck, you will still have to remove electronics, liquids, and shoes when moving through the security lanes.

Does Clear give you TSA PreCheck?

No. Applying for Clear and paying the application fee does not automatically approve you for TSA PreCheck. Both have separate application processes.

Global Entry approval gives you automatic TSA PreCheck at no additional cost, but Clear does not come with any additional expedited airport security membership.

TSA PreCheck begins with an online application where you are either denied (due to certain criminal records or providing fraudulent information) or receive conditional approval. Then, you have to visit an application center for a short interview as part of the final application process. For Clear, there is no in-person interview, but then again, the benefits are quite different.

Once approved, you will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that you would add to any airline frequent flier profile you have so that you can use the benefits of TSA PreCheck on any eligible airline tickets. 

If you are considering Clear, check to see if your local airport (or those you typically fly from) has Clear benefits. If not, it may not be worth the membership fee.

What are the benefits of Clear vs TSA PreCheck?

Clear only gets you to the front of the security line. While TSA PreCheck also has its own dedicated security lane, it has the added benefit of not needing to remove shoes, electronics and liquids from your carry-on. Clear members without TSA PreCheck do not receive those benefits.

Olivia Morelli

Gianluca Longo

Charlie Hobbs

The one reason many people appreciate Clear membership is that fewer people have it. You get to the front of whichever security line you qualify for faster than everyone else. The best scenario is to have both Clear and TSA PreCheck for an even faster path to the front of the line and through security.

How do you get TSA PreCheck or Clear membership for free?

There are several travel credit cards that include a credit for TSA PreCheck (as well as Global Entry). This means you can use that card to pay the application fee (for you or someone else) and receive a refund later.

Credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve , Capital One Venture X Credit Card , Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card, and Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card are just some of the cards that provide a credit toward joining expedited security programs like Global Entry and TSA PreCheck.

Orbitz Rewards Platinum members can also choose to have the fee for these expedited security programs refunded in the form of Orbucks that can be used on future travel.

It is also possible to get Clear membership for free. The Platinum Card from American Express comes with credits for both Clear and Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, making it the ideal card for the most frequent flyers.

Clear membership is available free or at a discounted rate for elite status members in airline loyalty programs. Delta Diamond Medallion members in the SkyMiles program and United Premier 1K members in MileagePlus both receive free membership in Clear each year. Lower elite tiers in either program as well as some co-branded credit card holders receive discounts to join, too.

Clear airport vs TSA PreCheck: no matter how you pay for these programs, they both can save you time at the airport. They are a complementary set of travel tools that frequent fliers will appreciate—and can have you sipping a cocktail in the airport or airline lounge in no time.

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TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry vs. CLEAR: What's the difference?

If you travel often, tsa precheck, global entry and clear are great benefits that can save you time and money — but how do they differ cnbc select reviews each so you can decide what's best for you..

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.

Information about the American Express® Green Card has been collected independently by Select and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of the card prior to publication.

If there's one thing everyone can agree on about flying , it's that nobody likes a long security line at the airport. Thankfully, when it comes to paying a little extra to skip the crowds , there are a few options to choose from.

Increasingly, statement credits for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees (of up to $100 every four years) are becoming a standard benefit of many travel rewards cards . And with a third alternative added to the mix, CLEAR® , the decision of which program to choose for expedited security at the airport can be a difficult one to make.

If you travel often, these are great benefits that can save you both time and money — but which program does what?

Below, CNBC Select reviews the difference between each travel perk — TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and CLEAR.

What we'll cover

Tsa precheck, global entry, which cards offer tsa precheck/global entry statement credits, which card offers clear® plus statement credits, bottom line.

If you rarely travel abroad and don't want to pay for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck is $78 for a five-year membership and gives you expedited security checks at more than 200 select airports in the U.S. If you don't have a U.S. passport, this is the best option.

For anyone who has experienced TSA PreCheck, the process is also less invasive than the standard security screenings. You don't have to remove your shoes, belt, light jacket, laptop or TSA-approved liquids .

To apply, you have to submit an online application and then schedule a 10-minute in-person appointment at one of the many enrollment centers. The appointment includes a background check and fingerprinting.

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the U.S. after traveling internationally . It basically means getting in the express line at customs and immigration, which can save you time and a potential headache after a long trip.

To apply, you must submit an application, pay a non-refundable $100 fee and complete an in-person interview. If you're approved, your five-year membership includes both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck in the U.S.

To qualify for Global Entry, you must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. lawful permanent resident. Residents of select countries can also qualify, and you can learn more about international application requirements . Applicants under 18 must have a parent or legal guardian's consent to participate in Global Entry. Learn more about eligibility for Global Entry , and be sure to check out Select's how to apply for Global Entry .

Here's a sampling of some popular travel credit cards that waive the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fees . Though each of these cards has an annual fee, this travel perk can help offset it — not to mention all the additional rewards you can earn using these cards regularly.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

5 Miles per dollar on hotel and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 2X miles per dollar on every other purchase

Welcome bonus

Earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening

N/A for purchases and balance transfers

Regular APR

19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Balance transfer fee

$0 at the Transfer APR, 4% of the amount of each transferred balance that posts to your account at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer to you

Foreign transaction fee

Credit needed.

Excellent/Good

See rates and fees . Terms apply.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

10 Miles on hotels per dollar and rental cars, 5 Miles per dollar on flights when booked via Capital One Travel; unlimited 2X miles on all other eligible purchases

Earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening

$0 at the Transfer APR, 4% of the amount of each transferred balance that posts to your account at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer to you

Foreign transaction fees

Read our Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card review.

United℠ Explorer Card

2 miles per $1 spent on United purchases; 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, eligible delivery services and hotel stays; 1 mile earned on every $1 spent on all other purchases

Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

5%, minimum $5

Member FDIC. Terms apply.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Earn 5X total points on flights and 10X total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3X points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases plus, 10X points on Lyft rides through March 2025

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

22.49% - 29.49% variable

Terms apply.

Read our Chase Sapphire Reserve® review.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year, 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel, 1X points on all other eligible purchases

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Needed

See rates and fees , terms apply.

Read our The Platinum Card® from American Express review .

Global Entry and TSA PreCheck credits are worth up to $100 or $78, respectively, and they are typically offered every four or five years, depending on which card you have. You receive the statement credit after you submit and pay for an application, and it can take a few weeks to see the cost credited to your account.

CLEAR ® is the newest addition to accelerating airport security screenings. CLEAR uses your eyes and fingertips rather than traditional IDs to verify your identity when you travel. The most expensive program of the three, CLEAR costs $189 for an annual membership and does not include TSA PreCheck, like Global Entry does.

With CLEAR, you can add up to three adult family members for only $50/year each. Kids under 18 are free and don't need to enroll. Delta SkyMiles and United MileagePlus members with status can often receive CLEAR discounts.

To apply, you sign up online and complete an in-person biometric scan . Once you are approved to use CLEAR, your experience going through security at the airport is pretty seamless. You report directly to a CLEAR kiosk and scan your fingerprints or eyes. A representative then escorts you to a security checkpoint.

For sports and music fans, the membership also grants you CLEAR Sports , which allows you to skip the security line when attending many major stadiums and entertainment venues throughout the country, including Staples Center and Madison Square Garden.

Right now, two cards offer statement credits toward the CLEAR® Plus membership fee. With the American Express® Green Card , you can receive up to $189 in statement credits per calendar year toward a membership. Terms apply.

This credit can help offset the Green Card's $150 annual fee (see rates and fees) while you get to enjoy a discounted CLEAR® Plus membership. American Express® Green Card cardholders also earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on eligible travel, transit and at restaurants worldwide and 1X Membership Rewards® points on all other purchases.

Additionally, new cardholders who apply for The Platinum Card® from American Express can use their card to get up to $189 in statement credits back per year on their CLEAR® Plus membership when they pay for membership with their Platinum card ( subject to auto-renewal). This benefit is also available to those with The Business Platinum Card® from American Express . Terms apply.

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases. Also, earn 1.5X points (that's an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchases at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.

Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases within the first 3 months of card membership

19.49% - 27.49% variable

Meanwhile, all Delta SkyMiles American Express and some co-branded United card members can get CLEAR® at a discounted rate of $149 per year ($40 off).

Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and 1X Mile per dollar on all other eligible purchases

Earn 40,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150

20.99% - 29.99% variable

What is better, Clear or Global Entry?

Clear and Global Entry are very different programs because Clear saves you time going through security screenings, while Global Entry saves you time at customs and immigration upon arrival in the U.S. after traveling internationally. Depending on your travel habits, it could make sense to sign up for both programs.

Does Global Entry include TSA PreCheck?

Global Entry members automatically receive TSA PreCheck expedited security benefits as part of their membership.

Do I need Global Entry if I already have TSA PreCheck?

While Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits, TSA PreCheck does not include Global Entry, so anyone who travels internationally regularly will need to apply for Global Entry separately. There is also no option to simply upgrade a TSA PreCheck membership to include Global Entry — you must pay the full application fee if you want to switch.

Is getting Global Entry worth it?

Global Entry can definitely be worth it as it saves you a lot of time and hassle when returning from an international trip. The cost is just $22 more than TSA PreCheck and it includes all PreCheck benefits as well. Plus, many travel credit cards offer Global Entry application fee credits.

You don't have to be a jet-setter to benefit from any of these three travel programs.

Even if you only fly a few times a year, the hassle of waiting in airport security lines is often enough to justify enrolling in one of them.

Overall, it's generally recommended that you apply for Global Entry rather than TSA PreCheck (as long as you have a U.S. passport). Global Entry, which grants members expedited entry back into the U.S. after traveling internationally, is a five-year membership that also gives you access to TSA PreCheck, for just $22 more.

Although CLEAR offers the added entertainment access perk, its membership cost is substantially higher and you have to regularly fly through one of the 40+ U.S. airports it serves to really benefit. Otherwise, you will still need to purchase TSA PreCheck or Global Entry to have shorter security lines when traveling.

Whichever route you choose to go with, these three programs are designed to minimize the amount of time spent waiting in queues, which is a pretty nice travel perk no matter where you are headed.

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Why trust CNBC Select?

At CNBC Select, our mission is to provide our readers with high-quality service journalism and comprehensive consumer advice so they can make informed decisions with their money. Every travel guide is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of travel products .  While CNBC Select earns a commission from affiliate partners on many offers and links, we create all our content without input from our commercial team or any outside third parties, and we pride ourselves on our journalistic standards and ethics.

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For rates and fees for the American Express Green Card, click here

For rates and fees for the Platinum Card® from American Expres s , click here

For rates and fees of the Business Platinum Card® from American Express, click here

For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card, click here

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TSA PreCheck or Clear: Which should you choose?

If you’ve been in an airport recently, you’ve probably noticed two types of security lines: one for TSA PreCheck and one for Clear. Many of us already know of TSA PreCheck, a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) that allows you to quickly move through airport security. But you may not be as familiar with Clear, an airport security technology and membership program.

But which is better: TSA PreCheck or Clear? Both programs have their advantages and disadvantages, and savvy travelers could use both programs to enhance their airport experience. We take a closer look at TSA PreCheck vs. Clear to help you decide which program is better for you.

What is TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveler Program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA). TSA PreCheck is available at over 200 domestic airports and more than 90 airlines, all of which can be found on the official TSA website. Even though many airports and airlines participate in TSA PreCheck, there are some locations where TSA PreCheck is not available.

TSA PreCheck benefits

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. As for speed, the TSA claims that about 99% of TSA PreCheck passengers enjoy wait times of less than 10 minutes.

Many people consider the designated TSA PreCheck security line and faster clearance through security to be the primary benefit of TSA PreCheck — but being able to keep your shoes on and keep laptops and approved liquids in your carry-on during the process is also a huge plus. Keep in mind that passengers are selected occasionally for additional airport security screenings, which could interrupt the expedited process.

TSA PreCheck application process and cost

If you are a U.S. citizen, U.S. national or a lawful and permanent U.S. resident, you are eligible to apply for TSA PreCheck. The application process has a couple of steps. First, fill out a short online application on the TSA PreCheck website; it should take no more than five minutes to complete.

Then, schedule an appointment at a TSA PreCheck enrollment center to receive a background check and fingerprinting. After completing the TSA PreCheck application process and passing a background check, you’ll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that you can enter whenever you book a flight.

This two-step application process costs up to $85, depending on which enrollment provider you use ($78 for enrollments through IDEMIA and $85 for enrollments through Telos). Online renewals only cost $70, and your TSA PreCheck enrollment status will remain valid for five years. However, many travel-focused credit cards and loyalty programs offer statement credits for TSA PreCheck application costs, which is one way to offset the cost of applying for TSA PreCheck.

Plus, top travel credit cards often come with other cost-saving benefits, like travel insurance and airport lounge access. So if you’re a frequent traveler, you might want to consider adding a travel card to your wallet.

What is Clear?

Clear is a membership program that allows its members to quickly verify their identities at biometric security kiosks. The paid membership Clear Plus is required for use at airports, while membership is free for those who use it only to enter partner stadiums and arenas. Clear meets the TSA baseline for security and privacy controls and has been certified as a “qualified anti-terrorism technology” by the Department of Homeland Security.

You can find Clear kiosks at more than 55 airports and at stadiums and arenas across the U.S. In New York, for example, Clear is available at Barclays Center, John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, Madison Square Garden, Westchester County Airport and Yankee Stadium. Smaller cities and towns, on the other hand, may not have Clear locations. Use Clear’s location guide to see if it’s available in your area.

Clear benefits

Clear Plus passengers can use the Clear lane to speed up the first half of the airport security process instead of waiting in line for a TSA representative to check their boarding pass and photo ID. After getting through the biometric screening, a Clear Ambassador escorts you directly to the next stage of the screening process so that you can complete physical and luggage scanning. You’re then taken to the TSA PreCheck line, if you already have TSA PreCheck. Otherwise, you use the regular screening line.

The $189 annual fee for the Clear Plus individual membership allows you to pass through expedited airport security. Clear also offers a free sports and events pass through its app that helps shorten the time it takes to enter sports and entertainment venues.

Clear application process and cost

You’re eligible to apply for Clear if you are at least 18 years old and have a U.S. driver’s license, U.S. passport or U.S. state-issued ID. The Clear application process is similar to the TSA PreCheck application process. You’ll start by filling out an online application. Then, visit one of the more than 50 Clear airport locations to finish the process. You don’t need an appointment before visiting a Clear location, but you do need to bring a photo ID that matches the name on your application and prepare to share your biometric information.

A Clear Plus membership is more expensive than TSA Precheck, with individual membership costing $189 per year and family memberships costing $189 a year plus $99 per person for up to three adults (children under 18 can use the Clear lane for free when traveling with a Clear Plus member). And while a statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry applications is a common perk among luxury travel cards, Clear credits are much less common. However, members of Delta SkyMiles and United MileagePlus are eligible for discounted or free Clear memberships.

In addition, several American Express cards offer Clear benefits. For example, the American Express Green Card offers up to a $189 Clear statement credit each year to help you cover part of the membership cost. There’s also The Platinum Card from American Express, which offers up to $189 in Clear statement credits each year.

Which is better: TSA PreCheck or Clear?

When it comes down to choosing between Clear or TSA PreCheck, many travelers assume TSA PreCheck is better. TSA PreCheck is less expensive, is available at more airports nationwide and has the advantage of being backed by the federal government. Plus, many travel credit cards offer a statement credit that covers the cost of a TSA PreCheck application.

That said, Clear also has a few advantages over TSA PreCheck. As TSA PreCheck becomes more popular, having a Clear Plus membership can help expedite the ID check screening at airports to make it go even faster. If you don’t already have TSA PreCheck, this can be a huge benefit. And if you frequent partner sports arenas and concert venues, the ability to quickly pass through security may make Clear worth it for you — especially if you carry a credit card that offers a statement credit toward your Clear Plus membership.

Should you get both TSA PreCheck and Clear?

While it might sound odd to consider enrolling in both TSA PreCheck and Clear, there are advantages to being a member of both programs. The biggest advantage is the way the programs work together to ease your trip through airport security. You can streamline your travel document screening process through Clear, then enter the TSA PreCheck screening line and walk through security with your shoes on.

Here are a few more advantages to having both TSA PreCheck and Clear:

— TSA PreCheck only allows you to expedite your airport security experience, but Clear can speed up your entry into airports, stadiums and other entertainment venues.

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— When available, Clear passengers always have access to the dedicated Clear lane at security.

— Not all airlines allow you to use your TSA PreCheck membership to get through security, but Clear works no matter what airline you’re flying.

— Clear’s Health Pass allows you to share medical or vaccination information, which may be required for travel or entry into venues.

Also, it’s worth noting that TSA PreCheck isn’t the only recommended TTP. If you’re curious about the difference between TSA PreCheck and Global Entry — another Trusted Traveler Program designed to help people get through U.S. customs more efficiently — check out our guide on how to decide between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck.

The bottom line

If you want an affordable way to shorten the time it takes to get through airport security, TSA PreCheck might be the better choice for you. It’s also currently available at more locations than Clear. However, Clear provides access to expedited security lines at stadiums and arenas as well as airports, and you’re always able to use the Clear lane whenever it is available.

In the end, it’s up to you to weigh the pros and cons and decide whether you’d like to apply for TSA PreCheck, Clear or both. Either way, you’ll be able to spend your next trip breezing through airport security — which is a major plus.

(Information about the American Express® Green Card has been collected independently by Bankrate and has not been reviewed or approved by the issuer.)

TSA PreCheck vs. Clear: Which is better?

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If you’ve been in an airport recently, you’ve probably noticed two types of security lines: one for TSA PreCheck and one for Clear. Many of us already know of TSA PreCheck, a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) that allows you to quickly move through airport security. But you may not be as familiar with Clear, an airport security technology and membership program.

• TSA PreCheck is offered through the government while Clear is offered through a private company.
• TSA PreCheck expedites both the identity and physical screening process while Clear further expedites the document and identity screening process.
• A Clear Plus membership costs $189 per year for individuals ($189 a year for families plus $99 per person), and a TSA PreCheck membership costs up to $85 for five years.
• Clear is also available for use at select sports stadiums and entertainment venues throughout the U.S. while TSA PreCheck is only available to use at airports.

But which is better: TSA PreCheck or Clear? Both programs have their advantages and disadvantages, and savvy travelers could use both programs to enhance their airport experience. We take a closer look at TSA PreCheck vs. Clear to help you decide which program is better for you.

What is TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveler Program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA). TSA PreCheck is available at over 200 domestic airports and more than 90 airlines, all of which can be found on the official TSA website . Even though many airports and airlines participate in TSA PreCheck, there are some locations where TSA PreCheck is not available.

TSA PreCheck benefits

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. As for speed, the TSA claims that about 99% of TSA PreCheck passengers enjoy wait times of less than 10 minutes.

Many people consider the designated TSA PreCheck security line and faster clearance through security to be the primary benefit of TSA PreCheck — but being able to keep your shoes on and keep laptops and approved liquids in your carry-on during the process is also a huge plus. Keep in mind that passengers are selected occasionally for additional airport security screenings, which could interrupt the expedited process.

TSA PreCheck application process and cost

If you are a U.S. citizen, U.S. national or a lawful and permanent U.S. resident, you are eligible to apply for TSA PreCheck — and the application process is simple. First, fill out a short online application on the TSA PreCheck website; it should take no more than five minutes to complete.

Then, schedule an appointment at a TSA PreCheck enrollment center to receive a background check and fingerprinting. After completing the TSA PreCheck application process and passing a background check, you’ll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that you can enter whenever you book a flight.

This two-step application process costs up to $85, depending on which enrollment provider you use ($78 for enrollments through IDEMIA and $85 for enrollments through Telos). Online renewals only cost $70, and your TSA PreCheck enrollment status will remain valid for five years. However, many travel-focused credit cards and loyalty programs offer statement credits for TSA PreCheck application costs, which is one way to offset the cost of applying for TSA PreCheck.

Plus, top travel credit cards often come with other cost-saving benefits, like travel insurance and airport lounge access. So if you’re a frequent traveler, you might want to consider adding a travel card to your wallet.

What is Clear?

Clear is a membership program that allows its members to quickly verify their identities at biometric security kiosks. The paid membership Clear Plus is required for use at airports, while membership is free for those who only use it to enter partner stadiums and arenas. Clear meets the TSA baseline for security and privacy controls and has been certified as a “qualified anti-terrorism technology” by the Department of Homeland Security.

You can find Clear kiosks at more than 55 airports and at stadiums and arenas across the U.S. In New York, for example, Clear is available at Barclays Center, John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, Madison Square Garden, Westchester County Airport and Yankee Stadium. Smaller cities and towns, on the other hand, may not have Clear locations. Use Clear’s location guide to see if it’s available in your area.

Clear benefits

Clear Plus passengers can use the Clear lane to speed up the first half of the airport security process instead of waiting in line for a TSA representative to check their boarding pass and photo ID. After getting through the biometric screening, a Clear Ambassador escorts you directly to the next stage of the screening process so that you can complete physical and luggage scanning. You’re then taken to the TSA PreCheck line, if you already have TSA PreCheck. Otherwise, you use the regular screening line.

The $189 annual fee for the Clear Plus individual membership allows you to pass through expedited airport security. Clear also offers a free sports and events pass through its app that helps shorten the time it takes to enter sports and entertainment venues.

Clear application process and cost

You’re eligible to apply for Clear if you are at least 18 years old and have a U.S. driver’s license, U.S. passport or U.S. state-issued ID. The Clear application process is similar to the TSA PreCheck application process. You’ll start by filling out an online application. Then, visit one of the more than 50 Clear airport locations to finish the process. You don’t need an appointment before visiting a Clear location, but you do need to bring a photo ID that matches the name on your application and prepare to share your biometric information.

A Clear Plus membership is more expensive than TSA Precheck, with individual membership costing $189 per year and family memberships costing $189 a year plus $99 per person for up to three adults (children under 18 can use the Clear lane for free when traveling with a Clear Plus member). And while a statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry applications is a common perk among luxury travel cards, Clear credits are much less common. However, members of Delta SkyMiles and United MileagePlus are eligible for discounted or free Clear memberships.

In addition, several American Express cards offer Clear benefits. For example, the American Express® Green Card offers up to a $189 Clear statement credit each year to help you cover part of the membership cost. There’s also The Platinum Card® from American Express , which offers up to $189 in Clear statement credits each year.

Which is better: TSA PreCheck or Clear?

When it comes down to choosing between Clear or TSA PreCheck, many travelers assume TSA PreCheck is better. TSA PreCheck is less expensive, is available at more airports nationwide and has the advantage of being backed by the federal government. Plus, many travel credit cards offer a statement credit that covers the cost of a TSA PreCheck application.

That said, Clear also has a few advantages over TSA PreCheck. As TSA PreCheck becomes more popular, having a Clear Plus membership can help expedite the ID check screening at airports to make it go even faster. If you don’t already have TSA PreCheck, this can be a huge benefit. And if you frequent partner sports arenas and concert venues, the ability to quickly pass through security may make Clear worth it for you — especially if you carry a credit card that offers a statement credit toward your Clear Plus membership.

Should you get both TSA PreCheck and Clear?

While it might sound odd to consider enrolling in both TSA PreCheck and Clear, there are advantages to being a member of both programs. The biggest advantage is the way the programs work together to ease your trip through airport security. You can streamline your travel document screening process through Clear, then enter the TSA PreCheck screening line and walk through security with your shoes on.

Here are a few more advantages to having both TSA PreCheck and Clear:

• TSA PreCheck only allows you to expedite your airport security experience, but Clear can speed up your entry into airports, stadiums and other entertainment venues.
• When available, Clear passengers always have access to the dedicated Clear lane at security.
• Not all airlines allow you to use your TSA PreCheck membership to get through security, but Clear works no matter what airline you’re flying.
• Clear’s Health Pass allows you to share medical or vaccination information, which may be required for travel or entry into venues.

Also, it’s worth noting that TSA PreCheck isn’t the only recommended TTP. If you’re curious about the difference between TSA PreCheck and Global Entry — another Trusted Traveler Program designed to help people get through U.S. customs more efficiently — check out our guide on how to decide between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck .

The bottom line

If you want an affordable way to shorten the time it takes to get through airport security, TSA PreCheck might be the better choice for you. It’s also currently available at more locations than Clear. However, Clear provides access to expedited security lines at stadiums and arenas as well as airports, and you’re always able to use the Clear lane whenever it is available.

In the end, it’s up to you to weigh the pros and cons and decide whether you’d like to apply for TSA PreCheck, Clear or both. Either way, you’ll be able to spend your next trip breezing through airport security — which is a major plus.

Issuer-required disclosure statement

*Information about the American Express® Green Card has been collected independently by Bankrate. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the issuer.

Article sources

We use primary sources to support our work. Bankrate’s authors, reporters and editors are subject-matter experts who thoroughly fact-check editorial content to ensure the information you’re reading is accurate, timely and relevant.

TSA PreCheck® Airports and Airlines , Transportation Security Administration. Accessed on February 13, 2024.

Enrollment Center Locator, Transportation Security Administration. Accessed on February 13, 2024.

Find CLEAR Near You , CLEAR. Accessed on February 13, 2024.

TSA Enrollment Locator , TSA Enrollment by IDEMIA. Accessed on February 6, 2024.

Credit Cards Featuring TSA PreCheck , Transportation Security Administration. Accessed on February 6, 2024.

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Tsa precheck® vs. clear: compared and combined to save time in the airport.

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Air travel can be such a time-consuming activity that finding any type of short cut is usually very much worth it. If you’d like to breeze through airport security before taking a flight, then you should consider two programs that might let you do just that: TSA PreCheck® and Clear. Keep reading to find out more and if either one, or both, could work for you.

TSA PreCheck®: What is it & how does it work?

TSA PreCheck® is one of severalTrusted Travel programs authorized by the Transportation Security Administration to provide expedited screening for people traveling within or departing from the United States. This program, supported by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is available at over 200 airports around the U.S.

To participate, you must complete an application and pay the $78 application fee. The program is only available to U.S. citizens, nationals and permanent residents. The process includes a background check and the collection of biometric information like fingerprints – so you’ll need to physically present yourself at one of the approved enrollment centers (most airports have one).

If your application is approved, you’ll have the benefit of a shorter and more streamlined screening process at the airport. For example, you can leave on your shoes and won’t need to take your laptop out of its case. flight. When you arrive at the airport, simply look for the TSA PreCheck® lane.

Clear: What is it & how does it work?

Clear, like TSA PreCheck®, is also an expedited security identification program. However, this service is offered by a private company known as Secure Identity, LLC rather than being government-sponsored like the TSA PreCheck® program. It is also only available to U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents with a valid government-issued photo ID.

Clear can also save you time at the airport, but its digital ID verification service is also in use in locations like stadiums, concert venues and more. In addition to verifying your personal identity at the airport, there are other uses for Clear:

• Digital vaccine record
• Age verification
• Check-in (hotels, events, etc.)

Clear is available at 50 U.S. airports, where you can also apply and receive approval the same day. Once you place a government ID on file along with biometric information like a retina or facial scan and fingerprints, you can add your Clear membership information to your airline account profiles

Once you’re a member, you may go through a special line and check in at the Clear kiosk at the airport security checkpoint rather than having your identification verified by a TSA agent. But you are still subject to the physical security screening process at the TSA checkpoint: You and your carry-on items will still be going through a scanner. The list price for Clear is $189 per year. You can add another adult to your Clear account for $60, and children under 18 are free under their parents’ account. Discounts are available for members of some frequent-flier programs and certain credit card holders – we will detail those below.

Credit cards offering TSA PreCheck® savings

There are ways to cover this benefit with 30+ major credit cards that offer statement credits or allow the use of rewards points for this travel expense.

Here are a few credit cards from major issuers offering this benefit:

Credit cards offering discounts on Clear

Here are some credit cards that either offer a discounted Clear membership or statement credit towards your membership:

Key differences between TSA PreCheck® and Clear

There are a few differences between the expedited screening services. Here’s what you should know:

• Price: Clear is more expensive at $189/year versus TSA PreCheck® at $78 for five years.
• Processing time: Clear applications are processed immediately for same-day use. TSA PreCheck® can take up to 60 days to process, though the average time is much less.
• Security protocols: Although you can bypass the documentation check with Clear, you must still go through the TSA physical security screening measures. With TSA PreCheck, your trip through the security screening should be easier and quicker.
• Availability: Clear is only available at about 50 airports, while TSA PreCheck® is available at over 200 airports.

TSA Precheck® vs. Clear: which is better?

This is a personal decision, but a key question to ask yourself is: What is your time worth to you? If your home base airport has a Clear lane and kiosk, Clear could save you from what can sometimes be a long line. , But remember that the document check is just part of the process – you and your carry-ons luggage will still have to go through most of the TSA security screening process. If you frequent other venues that use Clear, that could add to the value you expect from a $189 annual fee – assuming you couldn’t find a discount.

TSA PreCheck, though more involved from an application standpoint, does seem to provide more value for the cost because you’ll go through verifying your identity quicker. Not having to remove footwear, belts or light jackets – or take items out of your baggage – is always a hassle-saver, and sometimes a time-saver as well.

How to maximize your value by having both

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. Also: Are you habitually late for flights? You might recoup the cost of these services by not missing your plane.

If your personal circumstances call for both programs, then you must be prepared to shell out over $250 to get a comprehensive expedited security screening plan in place. In this case, getting one or more credit cards that will cover those fees for you might be a good idea.

Of course, we only recommend credit cards if you are responsible with them and good at managing debt. Ideally, you’ll pay your cards off each month and never carry a balance to avoid paying interest. Otherwise, all the rewards, statement credit and other benefits won’t be worth it.

Different benefits for different travelers

Although there’s a growing selection of pre-screening programs to help you save time as a frequent traveler, they aren’t all created equal. In this case, TSA PreCheck® is probably the best option for the average person due to the lower cost and ability to save more hassle. Unless you are able to take advantage of Clear’s offerings outside the airport, it may not be the best option in terms of value.

For rates and fees of the card_name , please visit this URL .

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Tsa precheck® vs global entry vs clear.

TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry are Trusted Traveler programs that allow for expedited security screening before boarding a flight. Global Entry goes beyond PreCheck by speeding users through U.S. Customs and Border Protection when re-entering the U.S. from abroad, respectively. Clear allows you to skip out on the ID check portion of the airport security screening process. Clear also lets you store a digital vaccine record and verifies your age for various venues like stadiums and concert halls.

What are the best travel credit cards?

Top rewards travel credit cards include the Platinum Card by American Express, the Chase Sapphire Reserve and the Capital One Venture X. These cards carry a higher annual fee, but there are similar cards in the same “family” that provide travel benefits with little-to-no annual fee.

Do I still need TSA Precheck® if I have Clear?

You don’t need TSA PreCheck® if you have Clear, but you should know that having Clear alone only exempts you from the first part of the TSA security screening process, which is checking your boarding pass and ID. To save time and hassle at the physical security screening, you would need TSA PreCheck.

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The information presented here is created independently from the TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page.

TSA PreCheck vs. Clear: which one is best to expedite your travels in 2024

Oct 23, 2023 • 10 min read

Looking to avoid long lines at the airport? We'll help you decide which airport program is best for you © Pressmaster / Shutterstock

This series of articles about credit cards, points and miles, and budgeting for travel is brought to you in partnership with  The Points Guy .

Advertiser Disclosure:  This post contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. This relationship may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers. All information about cards from Aeroplan, American Airlines, Arvest, Bank of America, Choice Privileges, Citi, Commerce Bank, Diners Club, HSBC, MasterCard, Navy Federal, PenFed, Provident, Truist, UBS, USAA, U.S. Bank, and certain American Express, Delta and United cards has been collected independently by Lonely Planet. These cards are not available through Lonely Planet.

Navigating airport security can be a time-consuming and often frustrating experience. Between the long lines and complicated security protocols, just getting to your gate can be exhausting.

Trusted traveler programs like TSA PreCheck and Clear aim to speed up your journey through checkpoints with benefits such as expedited screening and biometric identity verification. By signing up for these programs, you can enjoy expedited security lines and even skip some of the more arduous parts. You can even get the fee waived with select travel credit cards . 

TSA PreCheck and Clear both have their advantages and are very different programs. Each has its own application process, requirements, benefits and fee structure. If you’re having trouble deciding between TSA PreCheck and Clear, we've got you covered. Here’s a breakdown of each program to help you make an informed decision. 

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What is TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck is a trusted traveler program run by the Transportation Security Administration. PreCheck provides low-risk travelers with expedited security screening at over 200 airports in the US. TSA PreCheck members pay a $78 application fee and undergo a background check. Once approved, TSA PreCheck is valid for up to five years. Renewal fees are slightly cheaper at $70 and well worth it for some. 

Travelers who are approved for TSA PreCheck can access a designated security lane at more than 200 US airports where they can keep their shoes, belts and light jackets on and leave laptops and compliant liquids in their carry-on bags, making the security checkpoint experience faster and more convenient. 

Best for: Travelers who want expedited security screenings at a vast network of US airports.

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How to apply for TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck is only open to US citizens, US nationals and permanent residents. You can apply online . An interview and background check are required. If you’ve had any criminal offenses on your record, your eligibility for PreCheck might be impacted.

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Credit cards that cover TSA PreCheck application fees

While the $78 TSA PreCheck application fee is reasonable, you might not have to pay it out of pocket. There are plenty of credit cards that cover TSA PreCheck application fees. Most of these cards offer a $100 credit towards either Global Entry or PreCheck. While the Global Entry application fee is $100, you’ll automatically get enrolled in TSA PreCheck if you’re approved for Global Entry. So if your card offers an option, it’s worth going with Global Entry since you’ll get both programs for the price of one. 

Here’s a complete list of credit cards that offer TSA PreCheck application fee credits:

• Aeroplan® Credit Card
• American Airlines Credit Union Visa® Signature credit
• Arvest Visa Signature® Credit Card
• Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card
• Capital One Spark Miles for Business
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
• Capital One Venture X Business
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
• Certain American Express® Credit Cards*
• Chase Sapphire Reserve®
• Choice Privileges® Select Mastercard®
• Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite TM MasterCard®
• Citi Prestige® Card
• Commerce Bank® World Elite Mastercard®
• Diners Club® Carte Blanche® Corporate Card
• HSBC Elite World Elite Mastercard®
• HSBC Premier World Mastercard®
• IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
• IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card
• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card *
• MasterCard® Black Card™
• MasterCard® Gold Card™
• Navy Federal's Visa Signature® Flagship Rewards Card
• PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card
• Provident World+ Travel®
• Southwest Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card
• Truist Business Travel Rewards credit card
• Truist Enjoy Beyond credit card
• Truist Enjoy Travel credit card
• UBS Visa Infinite Credit Card
• United Club SM Infinite Card
• United SM Explorer Card
• United Quest SM Card
• USAA Eagle Navigator™ Visa Signature® Credit Card
• U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card
• U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card
• U.S. Bank FlexPerks® Gold American Express® Card*

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What is Clear?

Clear is a trusted traveler program that uses biometric verification to expedite the identity verification process at security checkpoints. Clear is available at over 50 US airports and arenas . Instead of standing in line and showing their identification to a TSA agent, Clear members can use a designated kiosk to provide an iris scan or fingerprint before proceeding to security. While Clear uses biometric data to let you clear security, agents periodically conduct random ID checks.

Clear is ideal for frequent fliers who value time efficiency and convenience. These travelers typically fly out of large, busy airports where long security lines are common. Through Clear’s Reserve feature, members can reserve a spot in line at select airports. 

Clear also appeals to those who don’t want to go through background checks required by TSA PreCheck. Despite its $189 annual fee (which is much higher compared to similar programs), Clear can save customers a lot of hassle and time while navigating the airport.

Best for: Travelers who want to expedite TSA identification checks via biometric data.

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How to enroll in Clear

You can start the Clear enrollment process online or at an airport kiosk. The enrollment process is pretty quick and airport locations often have agents on-site to assist you. If you choose to apply online, you’ll still need to visit a Clear airport kiosk to validate your ID and provide biometric information. Clear is open to US citizens and legal permanent residents over the age of 18. 

Clear membership costs $189 per year for individuals. A family membership allows you to add up to three adults for $70 each. Family members can use Clear regardless of whether they travel with the primary member or not. Children under 18 can accompany Clear members free of charge.

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Credit cards that cover Clear membership fees

You can get the $189 Clear membership fee waived with certain credit cards or if you have elite status with United. 

United Premier 1K and Global Services members also enjoy free Clear membership. Silver, Gold and Platinum members receive a $40 discount, while non-elite members get $10 off. 

Lastly, you can get your Clear membership fee covered with credit cards. The following cards cover the entire $189 Clear membership fee (with exceptions noted):

• American Express® Green Card*
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express *
• The Platinum Card® from American Express *
• United Club℠ Infinite Card (discounted to $149)
• United Club℠ Business Card (discounted to $149)
• United℠ Business Card (discounted to $149)
• United℠ Explorer Card (discounted to $149)

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Comparison between TSA PreCheck and Clear

Whether you're a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, TSA PreCheck and Clear can significantly enhance your airport experience and save you valuable time. Both programs expedite airport security, but they function differently. TSA PreCheck focuses on expediting security checkpoints via dedicated lanes and less intrusive screening. 

On the other hand, Clear uses biometric technology for identity verification, which speeds up airport identity check procedures. Once you've completed your verification process at a Clear portal, a Clear agent escorts you to the front of the security line without waiting.

The cost could greatly influence your decision between these two programs. The annual membership fee for TSA PreCheck is $78 for five years, while Clear charges an annual fee of $189. While TSA PreCheck requires a criminal background check, Clear doesn’t.

TSA PreCheck

• Fee: $78 for five years
• Expedited security screening: Yes
• Expedited ID check via biometric scanning: No
• Requires background check:  Yes
• Best for:  Travelers who want expedited security screenings at a vast network of US airports.
• Credit cards waiving fees:  39 credit cards
• Credit cards offering discounts: N/A
• Airlines offering elite status discounts: N/A
• Fee: $189 per year
• Expedited security screening: No
• Expedited ID check via biometric scanning: Yes
• Requires background check:  No
• Best for:  Travelers who want to expedite TSA identification checks via biometric data
• Credit cards waiving fees:  The Business Platinum Card® from American Express*;  The Platinum Card® from American Express ; American Express® Green Card*
• Credit cards offering discounts:  United Club SM Infinite Card ; United Club℠ Business Card ; United℠ Business Card ; United SM Explorer Card
• Airlines offering elite status discounts:  United Premier 1K; United Global Services members; United Silver, Gold and Platinum elite members ($40 off); United MileagePlus members ($10 off)

TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry: A guide to picking the best one for you

Which program should you apply for?

Consider your travel habits and priorities to determine which program is right for you. If you frequently fly domestically and want to breeze through security easily, TSA PreCheck may be the best option. PreCheck is available at over 200 US airports, providing plenty of opportunities to put this benefit to good use.

However, PreCheck can also get incredibly crowded at some points and not all travelers will enjoy a faster security check.

Clear’s biometric verification system allows you to skip the ID check portion at 51 US airports and select sports stadiums and concert venues. This can save tremendous time and provide convenience if you travel out of the small number of airports currently offering Clear. When deciding, you should choose the program that aligns best with your travel habits and needs.

With each program speeding up a different aspect of airport security, it could make sense to sign up for both – especially if you can get the application fees waived through credit cards and from having airline elite status.

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Is Clear or TSA PreCheck better?

TSA PreCheck is generally the better option for most travelers because it offers expedited security screening at a lower cost and is available at more airports nationwide.

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Does Clear allow you to go through TSA Precheck?

Clear and TSA PreCheck are separate programs, and having Clear does not grant you access to TSA PreCheck. You must apply for and be approved for both Clear and TSA PreCheck separately if you wish to use both services for expedited airport security screening.

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What advantages does TSA PreCheck give you?

TSA PreCheck provides several advantages, including expedited security screening, shorter lines and the ability to keep your shoes, belts and light jackets on, as well as leave your laptop and liquids in your bag when going through security at participating US airports.

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How long does it take to get TSA PreCheck approved?

The TSA PreCheck approval process varies, depending on how soon you can get an interview. Conditional approvals typically take 3-5 days, though they can take up to 60 days. Once you’re conditionally approved, you’ll need to schedule an interview to answer a few questions and verify your documents. You can do this on arrival at select airports around the world.

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What is the difference between TSA PreCheck and Known Traveler Number?

A Known Traveler Number is issued to those who are approved for TSA PreCheck. When booking an airline ticket, you can enter the KnownTravel Number in a designated field. This ensures your boarding pass will note your PreCheck access so you can get access to expedited security screening.

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* Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit  americanexpress.com/ benefitsguide  for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company. 

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit  americanexpress.com  to learn more.

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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Tsa precheck, global entry, clear or nexus: which is best.

These programs can get you in and out of airports faster. Learn how to choose the right one for your travels.

Traveling can include a number of inconveniences, from long security lines to time-consuming immigration screenings. Programs like TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, Clear and NEXUS can help you save time and avoid potential headaches by letting you breeze through airport security lines. In some cases, you can even access these programs through your credit card's benefits .

The comparisons below are based on independent testing by our editors, including their experiences traveling for both business and pleasure. It's a big world out there!

Travel programs compared

Tsa precheck.

With more than 15 million members,  TSA PreCheck is the most popular of the expedited airport screening programs. It's run by the Transportation Security Administration and lets you use special TSA PreCheck security lines at the airport instead of fighting your way through the main security lines with everyone else. The screening itself is also expedited because you don't need to take off your shoes or remove your laptop, among other items, from your bag when going through a TSA PreCheck checkpoint.

Who's it for?

All US citizens and lawful permanent residents are eligible. Kids 12 and under can go through the TSA PreCheck line with their member parents.

What does it do?

Not only will the line at TSA PreCheck likely be shorter than what you'll encounter at the regular airport security checkpoint, but you'll go through more quickly because you won't need to remove your shoes, belt or light jacket, or take your laptop or liquids out of your bag.

How does it work?

Once you've been approved and paid your $78, you'll get a Known Traveler Number. When you book a flight, you must add your KTN to your reservation, which will allow you to use the TSA PreCheck security lane at the airport.

Where can I use it?

There are more than 200 participating US airports  and  80 participating airlines across the US.

What's the cost?

TSA PreCheck costs $78 for five years. You can pay with a credit card, debit card, money order, company check or certified/cashier's check. Renewing TSA PreCheck after your first five years costs $70 for another five years if you renew online.

How do I apply?

It's a two-step process:

• Fill out an online TSA PreCheck application and schedule an in-person appointment for a background check. There are more than 380 enrollment centers for the in-person interview. Unlike in the early years of the program, they're not all located in airports, either.
• Go to the appointment to answer questions for the background check and get fingerprinted.

The TSA estimates that the online application takes five minutes to fill out, and the in-person appointment takes 10 minutes to complete.

Global Entry

Global Entry is a no-brainer if you like the idea of TSA PreCheck but travel internationally. Run by US Customs and Border Protection, this program includes free TSA PreCheck  but also lets you get through customs more quickly when entering the US.

International travelers going by air, land or sea can benefit. To be eligible, you need to be a US citizen or lawful permanent resident, or a citizen of the following countries: Argentina, Colombia, Germany, India, Panama, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan or the UK. Kids will need their own Global Entry membership at the same cost as adults.

Global Entry lets you skip the long line at customs as well as the paperwork and awkward interviews with a customs agent when returning to the US. Instead, Global Entry members can use a self-serve kiosk. The program also includes TSA PreCheck to get you through airport security faster.

You can use Global Entry at dozens of airports  in the US, including Guam, Saipan and Puerto Rico. It's also available in some major Canadian airports (Calgary, Edmonton, Halifax, Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto and Winnipeg) as well as a handful of other international airports (Abu Dhabi, Aruba, Bermuda, Dublin, Grand Bahamas, Nassau). That's in addition to the advantages of a full TSA PreCheck membership, which you can use at over 200 US airports.

Global Entry costs $100 for five years. You can pay by credit card or through an electronic bank transfer.

Similar to TSA PreCheck, you need to fill out an online application . Start by creating a Trusted Traveler Program account. Then, complete the application for Global Entry (which includes the nonrefundable $100 fee). Once you're conditionally accepted, schedule an in-person appointment at an enrollment center and pass a background check. For your in-person interview, you will need a valid passport and one other form of identification, such as a driver's license. Lawful permanent residents must present their machine-readable permanent resident card.

Look for the dedicated Global Entry kiosks at customs when entering the US at participating airports. The ATM-style kiosk snaps a photo and asks you the same sort of questions you'd get on hand-written immigration forms (for instance, whether you are bringing in fruit or whether you are carrying more than $10,000 in cash). If the answer to those questions is no, you can hand off the printed receipt to an immigration officer who checks your passport and be on your way in as little as two minutes. 

You will also get a Global Entry ID card , but that's only needed for land and sea entry from Mexico or Canada. (If you're not familiar with the SENTRI and NEXUS programs related to those respective countries, you probably don't need to worry about this.)

Unlike TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, Clear is run by a private company, not the government. It lets you jump to the front of the main security line or the TSA PreCheck line at the airport. Instead of waiting to show your ID and boarding pass to the TSA agent, you can scan your eyes and fingerprints at a Clear kiosk, then be escorted to the front of the security line.

Clear only lets you skip the line. You'll still need to remove your shoes, belt, laptop and liquids when you go through security unless you're also a member of TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.

Air travelers who hate long lines and are willing to scan their eyes and fingers will benefit from Clear. To be eligible, you must be at least 18 years old and have one of these photo IDs: a US driver's license, US passport, US passport card, US-issued Permanent Resident Card, state-issued ID or US military ID.

Clear lets you skip the airport security line, but you'll still need to go through regular security screening. It saves you from needing to present your ID and boarding pass to a TSA agent after standing in the security line. Instead, you can use a Clear kiosk to scan your eyes and fingerprints. After that, a Clear employee escorts you to the front of the line for security screening. You'll need to take off your shoes and belt and remove your laptop and liquids from your carry-on unless you also have TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.

Your eyes and fingerprints are scanned when you enroll. You can then use those biometrics to zip through the Clear lane at an airport or stadium instead of the regular security line. With the Health Pass, you can add a digital vaccine card to prove your vaccination credentials. 

Clear isn't as widespread as TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. It's available in a select number of airports as well as a handful of stadiums .

Clear is pricier than TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. It costs $189 per year, and you can add up to three family members for $60 each per year. Kids under 18 can use the Clear kiosk when traveling with a Clear family member. 

Clear is the priciest of the three programs, but it's also the only one that offers a free trial. You can try it free for two months.

Delta and United frequent flyers can get a deal on Clear. For Delta, Clear is free for Diamond Medallion members; $149 a year for Platinum, Gold and Silver Medallion members; and $179 a year for general SkyMiles members. For United, Clear is free for Premier 1K members and $149 a year for United credit card members in the US and Platinum, Gold and Silver Premier members. It's $179 a year for MileagePlus members.

What is Clear Sports?

For stadium entry only, a Clear Sports membership is free and lets you bring one guest with you through the Clear security lane.

Clear is the most expensive program, but it's the easiest to join. You fill out an application online and finish the process at an airport or stadium that offers Clear. There's no need for a separate trip to an enrollment center, and you can start using Clear on the same day you enroll.

Anyone traveling between the US and Canada on a regular basis may want NEXUS. It makes it easier and faster to cross the border no matter your mode of transportation.

The program expedites processing upon entry into the US and Canada.

NEXUS members are pre-scanned before heading to the border and are able to cross more quickly via land, air or sea.

You'll have access to dedicated processing lanes at border crossings, as well as NEXUS kiosks in airports and at marine reporting locations. You can also use Global Entry kiosks when entering the US from Canada.

NEXUS is $50 for a five-year membership.

Apply online via the Trusted Travelers Program website . You'll undergo risk assessment by both the US and Canada as part of the application and registration process.

Which service should you get?

The best service for you depends on your travel habits. If you do a lot of domestic travel in the US, TSA PreCheck will cut down on the time you spend in security lines. Global Entry is best for international travelers since it expedites the often-slow immigration process. NEXUS is ideal for travelers who go between the US and Canada regularly. Clear is the most expensive choice and isn't the best option for airports, but for avid sports fans, it can get you to your seat quickly. 

Global Entry is the best overall option .   One CNET writer once called it "the best $100 I ever spent" -- and the first time you use it, you'll probably agree. Global Entry folds in all of the advantages of TSA PreCheck, including much faster and less invasive TSA security checks, but adds an express line through customs and immigration on your way back into the US from international airports and destinations. If you have a passport, this is the one to get.

TSA PreCheck is the best option if you don't have a passport . If you only travel domestically, TSA PreCheck will make flying a less onerous process. But if you take even one international trip in the next five years, you may kick yourself if you don't pay the extra $22 for Global Entry.

We don't recommend Clear at its current price . The base price of Clear feels prohibitive unless you're a frequent flyer -- particularly a Delta or United frequent flyer. It's almost $200 for one year, versus just $100 for five years of Global Entry. It also doesn't get you the quicker TSA PreCheck security check, so you're probably still going to want to invest in Global Entry or TSA PreCheck anyway. Delta and United Airlines frequent flyers can get a discount, but Clear just doesn't seem worth it for most travelers planning to take only a trip or two a year. However ...

Clear Sports is worthwhile for sports fans and concertgoers in select cities . No, this doesn't really have anything to do with airports or traveling. But Clear Sports, the free tier of Clear, will give you expedited entry into 19 stadiums around the country, which could be a time-saver for season ticket holders who attend many games each year. If you live in one of the cities where it's offered -- and you're OK with Clear having your biometric data -- this free service is worth checking out. Clear also has another free service called  Health Pass  that works as a vaccine passport, letting you gain entry into venues that require proof of vaccination.

Finally, as you might suspect: If you're a real stickler for privacy, you might want to skip all of these services.

Are TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, Clear and NEXUS safe?

Global Entry, TSA PreCheck and NEXUS are government programs, while Clear is a private corporation. But if you use any of the services, you'll be surrendering a lot of personal information, including fingerprints -- and your face.

In Clear's case, the company's website says : "We never sell or rent personal information. Personal information is only used to deliver a frictionless and secure experience with Clear."

For Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, you're surrendering your information to the federal government. That gives many people pause, especially since the government has shown it's no better than corporations at keeping data safe. From the SolarWinds breach to the  US Treasury and Commerce departments getting hacked , the feds have a pretty dismal reputation. And US Customs and Border Protection -- the agency that administers Global Entry and co-administers NEXUS -- has admitted that traveler photos were compromised in a cyberattack . 

None of these systems are ideal for folks who value privacy. However, while arguing for higher privacy standards is a worthy debate, it's not going to get you through the security line any faster. For better or worse, increased convenience will mean sacrificing some degree of privacy, whether that's to the airlines, the government or a private corporation. 

Can you get TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, Clear or NEXUS at a discount?

You can get all of these programs at a discount by using certain credit cards. There are many travel credit cards that offer application fee discounts for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and NEXUS. Select American Express credit cards offer CLEAR application discounts.

While getting access to these programs at a discount is great, you shouldn't choose a credit card based solely on program access. Consider the card's other perks as well. More often than not, credit cards with these perks also charge an annual fee, so you'll want to be sure you get enough value from its perks and rewards to justify the cost.

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Is Clear Worth It? Compare Clear Vs. TSA PreCheck

Table of Contents

What is CLEAR? 

What’s the difference between clear and tsa precheck .

• Step 1: Identification verification.
• Step 2: Security screening.

Is CLEAR still partnered with Hertz?

Clear airport locations.

• Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
• Austin–Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
• Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)
• Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM)
• Boise Airport (BOI)
• Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
• O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
• Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)
• Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
• Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE)
• Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL)
• Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
• Denver International Airport (DEN)
• Detroit Metro Airport (DTW)
• Fort Lauderdale
• Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
• George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
• William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)
• McCarran International Airport (LAS)
• Long Beach Airport (LGB)
• Los Angeles
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
• Miami International Airport (MIA)
• Minneapolis
• Minneapolis−Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
• Nashville International Airport (BNA)
• New Orleans
• Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
• LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
• Westchester County Airport (HPN)
• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
• Oakland International Airport (OAK)
• Oklahoma City
• Will Rogers World Airport (OKC)
• Orlando International Airport (MCO)
• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
• Puerto Rico
• Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU)
• Raleigh–Durham International Airport (RDU)
• Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
• Salt Lake City
• Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
• San Antonio
• San Antonio International Airport (SAT)
• San Francisco
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
• Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC)
• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
• St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)
• Washington DC.
• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
• Dulles International Airport (IAD)

CLEAR Sport Stadium Locations

• Globe Life Field
• Coors Field
• Madison Square Garden
• Yankee Stadium
• AT&T Center
• Earthquake Stadium

How to Get a Free or Discounted CLEAR Membership

Clear free or discounted membership through credit cards.

• American Express Platinum Card offers annual $189 CLEAR membership statement credit .
• American Express Business Platinum Card offers annual $189 CLEAR membership statement credit .
• American Express Green Card offers annual $189 CLEAR membership discount statement credit . 
• American Express Delta Air Lines Credit Cards members pay  $149 annually  for CLEAR membership.
• United Airlines Credit Cards members pay  $149 per year  for CLEAR membership. 

CLEAR Free or Discounted Membership Through Airlines 

• Diamond Medallion Members receive complimentary annual CLEAR membership.
• Platinum/Gold/Silver Medallion Members pay $149 annually  for CLEAR membership. 
• General Members pay $179 per year for CLEAR membership. 
• Direct Link to the Offer
• Premier 1K Members receive complimentary annual CLEAR membership. 
• Premier Platinum/Gold/Silver members pay  $149 yearly  for CLEAR membership. 
• MileagePlus members pay  $179 per year  for CLEAR membership. 

CLEAR Discounted Membership For Students

• Students can receive CLEAR membership for only  $60 per year for up to 4 years. 
• You must have a valid school email address and a student ID.

CLEAR Discounted Membership For Military

• America’s veterans and active duty military can receive CLEAR membership for only $90 annually .

CLEAR Discounted Membership For Government

• Federal, State, and Local Government employees can receive CLEAR membership at a discounted rate. 
• You must contact CLEAR member services for more information and how to get the discount. 

CLEAR Free Trial in 2023

• Receive a 1-month free CLEAR membership trial, including family.

Does CLEAR Do A Background Check?

Does clear work for international flights, how to enroll in clear.

• US Driver’s License
• US Passport
• US Passport Card
• US-issued Permanent Resident Card
• State Issued ID
• US Military ID
• Global Entry Card
• Go to join CLEAR online
• Provide details, such as your First Name, Last Name, Email Address, Zip Code, and Date of Birth. 
• Click the Continue button. 
• On the next screen, if you want to add a family, click the  Add Family button. 
• FYI, family members do not have to be related to you or reside with you. It can be a friend, a boyfriend/girlfriend, a colleague, etc. 
• Children under 18 can simply tag along for free. No enrollment is needed.
• If you have a promo code , enter it there. 
• Provide your payment card and check the box I agree to CLEAR’s Terms & Conditions.
• Finally, click on the Get CLEAR button. 
• You should receive an email from CLEAR with the subject Your CLEAR Login Information. 
• Click on the Create Your Account button in the email to create a password. Your CLEAR username is the email address that you enrolled in CLEAR with. 
• Your online CLEAR enrollment is not completed until you finalize your enrollment in person at a participating  CLEAR location  kiosk. 
• Your CLEAR membership date starts when you enroll in CLEAR online, even though you have not completed your in-person enrollment yet. 
• For example, if you enroll in CLEAR online on July 7, 2022, your CLEAR membership starts on July 7, 2022, and ends on July 7, 2023. 

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CLEAR vs. TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry - What's the Difference?

If you're like most people then chances are you have heard of these three programs before. You probably know that they have something do with expedited airport security but are confused on the differences between them and if they are worth the cost. This article is for you.

Not Competing Services The first proper perspective I need to cast is that these programs are actually not competing with each other. There are reasons to have all three, there are reasons to have only one. This depends on your travel routines and security preferences. So with that said, let's dig into the lush details, shall we.

TSA PreCheck

With PreCheck your boarding pass will say "PreCheck" on it which allows you to enter an alternate security screening line. The PreCheck line is virtually always much shorter than the regular queue. From there the best perks of the program are experienced at the security checkpoint:

• You don't need to remove your shoes.
• You don't need to take your laptop out of your carry-on baggage.
• You don't need to take your 3-1-1 liquids bag out.
• You don't need to remove your belt.
• You don't need to remove light outerwear such as a jacket.

So not only is your security screening less cumbersome it's also a huge time saver due to not having to repack and items and retie shoes.

Why Choose TSA PreCheck? TSA PreCheck is the most frequently chosen traveler program of the three and the reasons for that are clear: 1. At $85 every 5 years, it's the cheapest of the three. 2. With over 200 participating US airports , it provides the most opportunities to be used. 3. It's the only program that reduces your physical security screening requirements.

So what's the catch? Other than paperwork (which results in a background check), the $85 fee, and a short interview, you would be hard put to find any negatives to the program. Don't let the thought of an interview startle you, many members report that their interview was just a few questions and the whole thing was over in less than 5 mins (this is community sourced reporting, your experience may differ.)

Global Entry

If you liked the perks I listed about TSA PreCheck, and travel internationally, then you'll love Global Entry. First of all, you need to know that Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, so everything listed above is also a benefit you'll receive with Global Entry. Technically speaking, by enrolling in Globel Entry, you are automatically enrolling in both programs.

With Global Entry your immigration and customs processing time is shortened when you reenter the US. After leaving the plane and before getting your baggage, you'll head for the Global Entry kiosks, skipping the notoriously long winding lines for immigration screening.

Global Entry in Non-US Airports One rarely mentioned advantage of the program is that Global Entry kiosks do exist in a few non-US airports. At the time of this writing (Fall 2017) there are 57 international airports with Global Entry kiosks, 16 of them are non-US or in US territories.

The non-US airports are:

• Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)
• Aruba - Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA)
• Calgary International Airport (YYC)
• Dublin Airport (DUB)
• Edmonton International Airport (YEG)
• Guam International Airport (GUM)
• Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ)
• Montreal Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL)
• Nassau - Sir Lynden Pindling International Airport, Bahamas (NAS)
• Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW)
• Saipan International Airport (SPN)
• San Juan-Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport (SJU)
• Shannon Airport (SNN)
• Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)
• Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
• Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport (YWG)

Why Choose Global Entry? Global Entry is the most popular choice for frequent international travelers because:

• It includes TSA PreCheck.
• At $100 for 5 years, it is only $15 more than PreCheck.
• It can reduce your total travel time by hours per international flight, depending on airport congestion.

So what's the catch? The enrollment process is very similar to TSA PreCheck. Expect to have your interview questions be more geared around your international travel intentions and be sure to have a valid US passport before applying.

Government and Non-Government Programs

At this point, you should have a good understanding of these two popular government programs available to you. The third program, CLEAR, is run by a private company, obviously with the blessing of the airport authorities. Let's take a look.

CLEAR is often the most misunderstood program for the three, which is unfortunate because its benefits are straightforward and worthwhile. The confusion arises because CLEAR does not work in parallel with PreCheck and Global Entry (remember these are not competing services). CLEAR works in partnership with the airport security authorities. For $179 per year, CLEAR escorts you to an alternate dedicated screening lane (which one might say is even hard to call a line, because there is virtually no wait time), skipping past both the regular TSA screening line and the TSA PreCheck line.

After the CLEAR lane you arrive at the TSA physical screening checkpoint. If you have PreCheck then you will go to the PreCheck screening section, if you do not then you'll go to the regular screening section. So you can see the benefit of having both PreCheck and CLEAR. Obviously CLEAR can not have its own physical screening section because that task must be completed by the airport authorities, not a 3rd party.

CLEAR users regularly praise the service for getting them from ticketing to post-security in around 5 to 10 mins max. For frequent travelers, especially routine business flights, that's a very attractive benefit.

Where You Can Use CLEAR CLEAR, at the time of this article (Fall 2017), is currently operating at about 20 US airports with more openings coming soon. Here's where you will find CLEAR security lanes today:

• Austin (AUS)
• Baltimore (BWI)
• Dallas (DFW)
• Denver (DEN)
• Detroit (DTW)
• Houston (IAH and HOU)
• Las Vegas (LAS)
• Miami (MIA)
• New York (LGA and JFK)
• Orlando (MCO)
• San Antonio (SAT)
• San Francisco (SFO)
• San Jose (SJC)
• Seattle (SEA)
• Washington, D.C. (DCA and IAD)

Why Choose CLEAR? CLEAR is a popular choice for frequent flyers for these key reasons:

• It works in conjunction with TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, so members of those programs still utilize the benefits.
• It allows you to skip the manual boarding pass + ID check step via the use of the CLEAR kiosks.
• You're almost guaranteed to be past security in 5-10 mins. No more worries that you arrived at the airport a little late (however be aware of baggage check-in time cut-offs).

What's the Catch? With CLEAR the main issue for travelers is the cost. The $179 per year price tag could be unappealing to infrequent flyers. The signup and enrollment process is much faster and painless though when compared to PreCheck and Global Entry.

So Which to Choose?

I hope it has become clear (no pun intended) that you can't go wrong with any program, and to decide to choose one or all three are both valid conclusions.

Everyone's travel routines are very different. Obviously, if you won't use the benefits enough, it may not be worth the investment of time applying and fees.

Think about your current and potential future travel routines and check your home airport for participation in the three programs. Safe travels.

Clear vs. TSA PreCheck: What’s better for price and privacy?

Clear saves you time at the airport. just make sure to read the fine print..

With air travel returning to pre-pandemic highs, you might be tempted to pay for a service that lets you skip the security line.

Clear fits the bill: The $189-per-year subscription lets you walk straight to the front. Just make sure you read the fine print.

Airport security is, by nature, at odds with individual privacy. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has been criticized for unfairly picking out Middle Eastern travelers and trans people, and now it’s in the spotlight again for expanding its controversial facial-scanning program . Clear, which says it has more than 16 million members accounting for 10 percent of travelers at the airports where it operates, works like the TSA’s PreCheck program by letting subscribers move through security quicker. But the service comes with some concerns for consumers.

Clear collects biometrics and health details such as your vaccine status to perform its services. It also forces customers to sign an agreement that prohibits them from suing the company in court or joining a class-action lawsuit.

Are the benefits of Clear worth the costs? How does it stack up to other timesaving measures? Here’s what The Washington Post Help Desk found:

How does Clear compare to TSA PreCheck?

Like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry , Clear makes wait times at airports shorter by ushering paying customers past long security lines. It’s available at around 50 airports, listed here .

Clear has two offerings for air travelers: Plus and Reserve. With Plus, you pay $189 per year to verify your identity at the airport with biometrics such as your iris or fingerprint instead of waiting for a TSA agent to scan your ID. Plus subscribers check in at a separate Clear kiosk then walk to the front of the security line for physical scanning. (Although after a July 2022 security incident prompted an advisory letter from the TSA to Clear and its partner airports, more Clear subscribers are subject to random ID checks from TSA employees.)

If you pay for Plus, children under 18 can accompany you at no cost, and you can add up to three adult friends or family members to your account for $70 each per year.

Clear’s Reserve tier is free — you just claim a spot online or in Clear’s app by providing your departing airport, flight information and the approximate time you’ll show up. Upon arrival, you’ll head straight to a designated checkpoint and scan a QR code on your phone to skip the general security line. A TSA agent will still check your ID. There are 18 participating airports in the United States, Canada and Europe.

PreCheck, for its part, is a program run by the TSA under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). PreCheck is available at 200 airports, and 88 percent of members waited less than five minutes to pass through security as of June 2023, according to the TSA’s website. There are about 34 million people qualified to use PreCheck lines, including active duty military and members of other DHS Trusted Traveler programs , TSA spokeswoman Lisa Farbstein said. That number has more than tripled since 2016, Farbstein said.

PreCheck costs $78 every five years and requires an application , background check, fingerprints and an in-person interview. PreCheck customers get their own designated line, which tends to move faster than the general checkpoints because they don’t have to remove their shoes, belts or electronics.

You can be a member of Clear and PreCheck at the same time for an even speedier airport experience, though this hack won’t work if too many people sign up.

Why are people concerned about airport biometrics?

Compared to other forms of data collection, biometrics such as facial, iris and thumbprint scans have greater potential for invasive surveillance or discrimination, privacy advocates say. Facial recognition, for instance, makes it difficult to protect your privacy in public spaces — law enforcement has already used it to identify protesters such as one man accused of assaulting a police officer during a racial justice demonstration in 2020. And the technology isn’t always trustworthy, particularly when identifying racial minorities. At least three Black men in the United States have filed lawsuits alleging wrongful arrests due to faulty facial recognition .

Facial recognition at airports arguably comes with fewer risks than facial scanning during job interviews or criminal investigations. Both Clear and the TSA say they’re not using your biometrics for purposes other than running and evaluating their programs.

But civil rights experts warn against normalizing the use of facial scanning, especially by the federal government. Others have criticized the TSA for not clearly communicating the rules around facial scanning. Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) told The Post that when he tried to opt out of a voluntary TSA facial scan, he was told that doing so would cause a significant delay for himself and other travelers.

How do Clear’s privacy practices stack up?

Clear collects some potentially sensitive data from its customers, including iris and fingerprint images that identify you. It also stores your vaccine status or coronavirus test results if you opt into its Health Pass feature .

Clear never shares your biometrics with outside companies, spokeswoman Annabel Walsh said. It also doesn’t share data or inferences about your health, finances or behavior with outside marketing or advertising companies, she said. When Clear does share data outside the company, it requires its partners to sign contracts promising to only use your information to perform services for Clear, Walsh added.

While Clear stores your data indefinitely, it accepts data deletion requests from consumers even if they live in states without privacy laws, Walsh said.

Clear’s privacy practices seem better than many. But any time you trust a company or the government with your data, you risk security breaches and potential misuse.

What legal caveats am I agreeing to by signing up for Clear?

Clear subscribers sign member agreements that include important legal fine print. By signing, you waive your right to sue the company in court or enter a class-action lawsuit — even if Clear violated its privacy promises or other terms.

This carve out — known by critics as a “forced arbitration clause” — isn’t unique to Clear. But it’s worth a raised eyebrow, said Deborah Hensler, a professor at Stanford Law School who teaches courses on arbitration law. By compelling unhappy or wronged customers to deal with an arbiter rather than a traditional judge or jury, the company puts itself at an automatic advantage should something go wrong, she said.

“You and I as consumers didn’t negotiate this clause,” Hensler said, “and ordinary people don’t know what it means.”

Companies invented arbitration clauses to keep disputes with customers or employees out of the courts, Hensler said. As litigation against companies became increasingly common in the early 2000s, companies started throwing in bans on class-action suits as well. While many other countries disallowed the practice, U.S. courts let corporations continue with so-called forced arbitration.

“This is common practice among companies providing consumer services,” Clear’s Walsh said. “Disputes are few and far between, and when they do happen, we try to resolve them on an individual basis.”

Hensler said she has signed a handful of non-arbitration clauses in her dealings with service companies — after all, the terms for consumers are to “take it or leave it.” But it’s worth a careful read and extra consideration, especially when you’re signing up with a company that collects biometrics or other sensitive data.

Help Desk: Making tech work for you

Help Desk is a destination built for readers looking to better understand and take control of the technology used in everyday life.

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PreCheck, Global Entry, CLEAR: We explain U.S. expedited travel programs

There are currently five services that grant quicker passage through U.S. airport security. Here are the pros and cons of each.

As spring break and summer vacations approach, travelers looking to navigate crowded United States airports more quickly and easily have several options. Currently, five travel services provide a fast track through immigration or security screenings. Four of those services— PreCheck , Global Entry , SENTRI , and NEXUS —are operated by the U.S. government’s Trusted Traveler Program , which now has almost 18.5 million members. The fifth, called CLEAR Plus , is run by a private company.

PreCheck lets travelers classified as low-risk skip regular Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screenings; Global Entry expedites customs checks on arrival in the U.S; SENTRI streamlines overland border crossings; and NEXUS simplifies passage between the U.S. and Canada. CLEAR Plus, meanwhile, focuses on airport departures, using biometrics for swifter identification of passengers.

Each of these five services is available only to U.S. nationals or lawful U.S. permanent residents, except for Global Entry, which can be used by nationals of 14 other countries.

What’s new with travel expedited programs

A record number of people enrolled in TSA PreCheck last year as U.S. authorities launched new technology to tackle increased waiting times for this airport screening service. Four million members joined this service in 2023, a 19 percent increase from the previous year.

This larger volume of users corresponded with longer wait times. Fresh TSA figures reveal that 88 percent of PreCheck passengers waited less than five minutes to clear security in 2023, down from 94 percent in 2022.

PreCheck may lose members if its efficiency continues to wane, warns aviation security expert Sheldon Jacobson . At some U.S. airports, travelers are reporting longer waits at PreCheck lanes than TSA lanes, says Jacobson, a computer science professor at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. “Passengers will view PreCheck as not worthwhile, perhaps allowing their status to lapse,” Jacobson predicts, if this system’s waiting times balloon further .

However, he believes this problem may be addressed by the TSA’s new technology. Facial recognition and self-service security screenings are being rolled out in a bid to reduce PreCheck waiting times. TSA PreCheck Touchless Identity Solution lets PreCheck members verify their identity via facial recognition instead of by presenting ID or a boarding pass. It is now operating at six U.S. airports, with more expected to join across 2024.

Meanwhile, the TSA’s new self-service screening has been installed at Las Vegas ’ Harry Reid International Airport . This cutting-edge checkpoint will let passengers enrolled in the Trusted Traveler Program scan their ID and carry-on bags themselves. Feedback from this trial will inform the development and potential expansion of the system.

What to know about the three major fast-track programs

TSA PreCheck lets members join express security lanes at U.S. airports, eliminating the need to remove shoes, belts, laptops, jackets, and liquids of less than 3.4 ounces (100 ml). To become a PreCheck member, travelers must provide personal information and undergo a background check. Within five days, most applicants get approval in the form of a Known Traveler Number, which is used when booking flights to ensure access to PreCheck expedited screenings.

( What are the new rules on carrying liquids through U.K. airport security? )

CLEAR Plus is similar but not identical to PreCheck. It allows members to move more efficiently through airport checkpoints by having their identity verified via biometrics (eye or fingerprint) rather than queuing to present ID to security staff. Travelers can join CLEAR Plus by enrolling in person at a CLEAR desk at a participating airport. This process can be even quicker if they fill in their application online before visiting the airport to complete enrollment.

Global Entry, which costs $100 for five years, provides expedited security clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the U.S. At separate Global Entry lanes, members have their photo taken, which confirms their identity, before they briefly meet a Customs and Border Patrol officer.

Unlike PreCheck or CLEAR Plus, Global Entry can be used by nationals of 14 countries: Argentina, Brazil, Bahrain, India, Colombia, United Kingdom, Germany, Netherlands, Panama, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan, and Mexico. However, Global Entry has a slower, more complex application process than PreCheck or CLEAR Plus, says John Lipford , affiliate professor of tourism at Grand Valley State University.

Global Entry applications can take up to 11 months to process. Applicants must pass a strict background check and an in-person interview, which can take months to secure. They can check their application status by visiting the Trusted Traveler Program website.

But there is a shortcut—the Enrollment on Arrival program lets applicants who are conditionally approved (usually after a few weeks), complete the interview, without an appointment, at the airport when they arrive from an overseas trip.

The program runs at more than 50 U.S. airports, with interviews conducted by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol officers. You just need a valid passport or permanent resident card and documents proving U.S. residency (driver’s license, utility bill, mortgage statement, or rental payment statement).

Which program is right for you?

Global Entry is designed for people traveling overseas and, as an added benefit, it includes TSA PreCheck membership. Travelers who fly only within the U.S. are better suited to having just PreCheck or CLEAR Plus.

PreCheck’s advantages over CLEAR Plus are wider availability, lower pricing, and greater security bypasses, says Lipford.   PreCheck is offered at more than 200 U.S. airports, compared to less than 60 for CLEAR Plus. It only costs $78 for a five-year membership, which is about 12 times cheaper per year than CLEAR. And, unlike CLEAR Plus members, PreCheck users don’t need to undergo body scans.

Despite costing $189 annually, CLEAR Plus is popular due to convenience, marketing, and fascination with new technologies, says Lipford. Its sales kiosks are prominent in so many U.S. airports that they can easily be spotted by weary travelers queuing for a flight and wishing for speedier progress.

CLEAR Plus is also newer than PreCheck and uses biometrics as standard; it benefits from a perception of being more cutting edge, Lipford says.

( Will new travel technology invade your privacy? )

But Lipfort also expresses concern that travelers are sacrificing their privacy by agreeing to the biometric data collection of some expedited travel services. “[This] could have some pretty dire consequences, collectively and in the long term, should this information ever be misused,” he warns. “Privacy has historically been a valuable right and component of our lives in the U.S., and we are collectively whittling it away through advances in technology and the corresponding pressure to keep up with these advances.”

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What is Clear airport security — and is it worth it?

Editor's Note

Clear Plus is an expedited security program currently available at 56 U.S. airports, as well as stadiums and other large venues, with more than 17 million members nationwide .

As a secure identity platform, Clear uses member data, including fingerprint and iris scans, to automate most users' identity verification step in the U.S. Transportation Security Administration screening process. Clear members go through a separate security lane with dedicated kiosks rather than waiting in line for a TSA agent to review their license or passport.

Clear costs $189 annually , but some credit cards cover the cost entirely or at a discounted rate.

To help you decide whether Clear is worth it, here's what you need to know about the expedited airport security program, including its benefits, potential drawbacks and ways to get a discounted (or free) membership.

How Clear works

Clear requires passengers to first complete identity verification in a separate Clear lane by submitting to biometric authentication (a fingerprint or iris scan) at a kiosk; this replaces the step of using a TSA agent to inspect government IDs and check boarding passes. Note that TSA may randomly select Clear users , like all other registered travelers, to verify their identity by showing an ID at any time.

After verifying a passenger's identity, a Clear representative will escort Clear users to the actual security screening area, bypassing everyone waiting in the first line.

If you're also enrolled in TSA PreCheck , you'll go directly to the TSA PreCheck line.

Additionally, Reserve powered by Clear — which allows travelers to book timed entry through TSA security based on flight departure — is currently available at 20 airports across the U.S., Canada and Europe.

Where Clear works

At this time, Clear is available at 56 U.S. airports:

• Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
• Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)
• Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM)
• Boise Airport (BOI)
• Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
• Connecticut's Bradley International Airport (BDL)
• Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)
• Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
• Chicago's Midway International Airport (MDW)
• Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
• Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE)
• Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
• Dallas Love Field (DAL)
• Denver International Airport (DEN)
• Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)
• Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
• Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP)
• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
• Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
• Houston's William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)
• Kansas City International Airport (MCI)
• Las Vegas' Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
• John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)
• Long Beach Airport (LGB)
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
• Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
• Miami International Airport (MIA)
• Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE)
• Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
• Nashville International Airport (BNA)
• New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
• New York's LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
• Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC)
• Oakland International Airport (OAK)
• Oklahoma City's Will Rogers World Airport (OKC)
• Ontario International Airport (ONT)
• Orlando International Airport (MCO)
• Palm Beach International Airport (PBI)
• Palm Springs International Airport (PSP)
• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
• Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)
• Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)
• Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (PVD)
• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
• Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
• Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
• San Antonio International Airport (SAT)
• San Diego International Airport (SAN)
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
• San Juan Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU)
• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
• St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)
• Tulsa International Airport (TUL)
• Washington's Dulles International Airport (IAD)
• Westchester County Airport (HPN)

Additionally, Clear is available at select entrances to the following stadiums during some events:

• Allegiant Stadium — Las Vegas
• Ball Arena — Denver
• Barclays Center — New York City
• BMO Stadium — LA
• Capital One Arena — Washington, D.C.
• Chase Center — San Francisco
• Coors Field — Denver
• Kaseya Center — Miami
• Lumen Field — Seattle
• Madison Square Garden — New York City
• Nationals Park — Washington, D.C.
• Oracle Park — San Francisco
• PayPal Park — San Jose, California
• SAP Center at San Jose — San Jose
• SoFi Stadium — LA
• State Farm Arena — Atlanta
• T-Mobile Arena — Las Vegas
• Yankee Stadium — New York City

How does Clear compare to TSA PreCheck?

Clear further reduces airport security wait time by automating the identity verification process and whisking users to the front of the TSA line. However, having Clear does not automatically confer TSA PreCheck status, and it's also currently available at fewer airports than TSA PreCheck .

TSA PreCheck members are not guaranteed TSA PreCheck access every time they fly since they can be randomly excluded and sent to the standard line. On the contrary, Clear has no randomized exclusion of passengers. Also, everyone who enters the Clear line is a member of Clear and probably knows how to operate the system.

On the other hand, TSA sometimes adds nonmember travelers who have no idea how it works to the TSA PreCheck line. This can hold up the line. Additionally, TSA PreCheck only works when traveling with a participating airline. In contrast, Clear works when traveling with any carrier.

Clear and TSA PreCheck are restricted to certain hours and may not be available during your flight time.

What's the difference between Clear and Clear Sports?

You can also use Clear at select stadiums via Clear's Sports & Events access, which is free and available to all Clear members for expedited entry to games at participating stadiums. However, this membership doesn't provide access to non-stadium Clear locations like airports.

To use Clear Sports & Events, download the Clear app and tap on the black "Sports & Events" tile. Log in to enroll before heading to the Clear lane to show your QR code to a Clear ambassador.

Members can bring one adult guest through the Clear lane daily at stadiums and venues. Children under 18 don't need a membership and can go through the Clear lane when accompanied by an adult.

Once you are a Clear member, you can add up to three family members for $99 each per year. Children under 18 can use the lane for free when accompanied by a Clear member.

How to enroll in Clear

You can either start the enrollment process online and finish at a Clear location, or you can complete the entire process at a Clear location. The enrollment process takes about five minutes (assuming no line) and requires no appointment.

You must complete the final enrollment steps at a Clear location. This includes answering a few simple questions to verify your identity, showing a valid photo ID, providing a payment method and attaching your biometrics (fingerprints and a picture of your irises) to your newly created account.

To qualify for Clear enrollment, you must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident at least 18 years old. You must also have one of the following forms of photo identification: a U.S. driver's license, a U.S. passport, a U.S. passport card, a U.S.-issued permanent resident card, a state-issued ID or a U.S. military ID.

How to save on Clear

Though the normal rate for Clear membership is $189 per year, many ways exist to avoid paying the full price.

Clear members who refer friends to the program receive two months of free membership apiece. You can also access a two-month trial through this link .

Additionally, Clear has partnered with select airlines to offer the following special membership rates for their members:

Delta SkyMiles discounts

• Delta Diamond Medallion and 360 members: complimentary membership
• Delta Platinum, Gold and Silver Medallion members: $149 annually
• Those with a Delta cobranded credit card, including the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card , Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card , Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card , Delta SkyMiles® Gold Business American Express Card , Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card and Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card : $149 annually
• General SkyMiles members: $179 annually

United MileagePlus discounts

• United Global Services and Premier 1K members: complimentary membership
• United Platinum, Gold and Silver members: $149 annually
• Those with a United cobranded credit card, such as the United Explorer Card , United Business Card and the United Club Infinite Card : $149 annually
• General United MileagePlus members: $179 annually

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan discounts

• MVP, MVP Gold, MVP Gold 75K and MVP Gold 100K members will receive 1,500 bonus miles when they sign up for Clear, plus an additional 1,250 miles each year they renew
• General Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan members: $179 annually

Which credit cards cover Clear fees as a benefit?

Certain credit cards afford users a free Clear membership. The following cards will reimburse you for up to $189 per year in Clear Plus membership costs:

• American Express Green Card
• The Platinum Card® from American Express
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
• The Centurion Card from American Express
• Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

The information for the Centurion, Green and Hilton Aspire cards has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Occasionally, there are targeted Amex offers covering the cost of Clear Plus membership for those with different American Express cards.

Bottom line

If Clear is available at your home airport or one you visit frequently, the program could be a big timesaver for your future travels, regardless of whether you also have TSA PreCheck. There's often just a single TSA staffer checking documents for both the TSA PreCheck line and the regular security line, so enrolling in Clear can save you valuable time.

Additionally, you can stack those expedited line benefits and enjoy more predictable access to security. This means those who check in online without checked bags can arrive at the airport closer to their flight departure time than they normally would — and sometimes avoid long security lines .

Related reading:

• Clear users report random ID checks following new facial identity verification process
• 7 ways to get free or discounted TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and Clear
• Why your family may want to get Clear before your next flight
• The cost of Clear is going up for some members, but remember that you can get it for 'free'
• From airport screening to a stadium near you: How to get and use Clear to avoid lines
• Should you get TSA PreCheck or Clear — or both?
• TSA rolls back plan to require more Clear users to show ID
• Clear announces discounted membership for Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan members
• How to sign up for Clear for expedited security at airports and stadiums
• Clear Reserve: How to reserve your spot in airport security
• Best airline credit cards

Apply Now For Global Entry—Before The 20% Fee Hike Kicks In

The fee for Global Entry has remained the same for 16 years—but that’s going to change on October 1. Smart travelers will apply now for a nice bargain on a travel twofer.

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A lone traveler takes advantage of the Global Entry kiosk at Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston. (Photo by Michael Paulsen)

W hen the United States launched the Global Entry program in the summer of 2008, the application fee was $100—and so it has remained for 16 years. But that’s going to change. On Tuesday, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced that the cost to apply for Global Entry will jump to $120 on October 1, 2024.

Travelers who apply before that deadline will pay the lower, original rate, which is charged at the time the application is filed.

One of Homeland Security’s trusted traveler programs , Global Entry allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers arriving in the U.S. to speed through customs, avoiding the long lines that happen when hundreds of passengers disembark from an international flight. Not only is the Global Entry line always shorter (if there’s any line at all) but instead of queueing up to talk to a customs agent, Global Entry holders can simply scan their documents at a digital kiosk and be on their way.

In addition, members of the program traveling to the U.S. can use Global Entry to clear U.S. immigration and customs prior to departure at select international airports around the world, including Aruba; Bermuda; Nassau in the Bahamas; Dublin and Shannon airports in Ireland; Abu Dhabi in the U.A.E.; and nine airports in Canada.

Global Entry members can use the shorter NEXUS line when entering the U.S. from Canada or Mexico.

Driving across the border from Canada or Mexico? Global Entry members may also use the dedicated NEXUS and SENTRI lanes to enter the U.S.

Perhaps the best reason to apply for Global Entry is that it’s a twofer. Global Entry holders automatically get TSA PreCheck , which means shorter security lines before domestic flights, too. The current application fee for PreCheck alone is $78. Global Entry membership is good for five years, after which travelers can apply for renewal at the same price.

Finally, dozens of credit cards reimburse travelers who use the card to pay for the Global Entry application fee.

Currently, the application process for Global Entry takes four to six months, beginning with submitting an online application. Once membership is conditionally approved, the traveler then must schedule an in-person interview, which involves taking a photo and registering biometrics, including a fingerprint scan.

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7 ways to get free or discounted TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and Clear

A s we head into the holiday season, there's no better time to arm yourself with tools to pass through the airport as quickly as possible — specifically the TSA security line at U.S. airports and the customs line when coming back from abroad.

I've written extensively about TSA PreCheck and Clear , both of which help travelers speed through TSA security.

PreCheck users pass through security using a dedicated line for PreCheck users only, in which they do not have to remove their shoes, laptop, liquids, belt or light jacket like passengers in the regular TSA line.

Like TSA PreCheck, Clear users also begin the security process in a Clear-only lane, where they are biometrically identified via fingerprint or iris scans, sparing them from having to show their ID anytime during security screening. Users are then taken to the front of the line for the security screening machines (either the front of the PreCheck screening line for those with Clear and PreCheck, or the front of the normal TSA screening line).

The third program, Global Entry , is useful for frequent international travelers, as it gives preapproved, low-risk travelers expedited clearance upon arrival to the U.S. from abroad. Global Entry users can enter the country through automated kiosks at 75-plus airports .

Enrollment in the three programs costs money, including an annual fee for Clear. Memberships to TSA PreCheck and Global Entry last five years each.

While these programs may be worth their retail price tags in their own right, there's no need to pay full price if you don't have to.

At TPG, we aim to help you save money when traveling. We do this by sharing which credit cards you should have in your wallet , explaining how to leverage airline and hotel elite status levels, and showing you the perks of those frequent flyer memberships — including how to enjoy these programs at a discounted rate or even for free.

So before enrolling in TSA PreCheck, Global Entry or Clear, keep reading this guide for seven ways to save money on their associated fees.

How much do TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and Clear cost?

Normally, a five-year membership to TSA PreCheck costs $78 to $85, while five years of Global Entry runs you $100.

Two providers manage TSA applications. You'll pay $78 to apply through IDEMIA and $85 through Telos . Renewing costs $70 if you do it online through either provider.

If you have a Global Entry membership, you also receive the benefits of TSA PreCheck. Essentially, you reap the benefits of both programs for an extra $22 every five years.

An annual membership to Clear is $189. Together, using all these programs can add up if you don't take advantage of available discounts and credits.

If you're not yet familiar with the details of these different programs, check out our guides to TSA PreCheck , Global Entry and Clear to find the right one(s) for your travel needs.

'Free' TSA PreCheck and Global Entry via credit cards

Currently, there are 39 cobranded airline, hotel and other credit cards offering up to $100 in statement credit reimbursement for the application fees associated with Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. This credit is typically available every four to five years, though you should check the terms for your specific card for the exact frequency.

Some of the cards conveying free TSA PreCheck and/or Global Entry are:

• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
• The Platinum Card® from American Express
• United Explorer Card
• Citi®/AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® (see rates and fees )
• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
• Chase Sapphire Reserve
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
• Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card
• United Club Infinite Card

See here for a complete list of credit cards that offer a discount for TSA PreCheck.

Your miles can pay for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry

In addition to the aforementioned cards offering credits for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, some loyalty programs allow members to use points or miles in exchange for covering the membership fees. While these are options, the return per point is less than TPG point valuations , so they're not our top picks for ways to save on these memberships.

Those programs include:

• Radisson Rewards Americas : Members can redeem 65,000 points for an $85 application credit to TSA PreCheck only
• Orbitz Rewards: Platinum members get a free TSA PreCheck membership every five years
• Marriott Bonvoy : Members can redeem 25,000 points for an $85 application credit
• IHG One Rewards : Members can redeem 30,000 points for an $85 application credit
• United MileagePlus : Members can redeem 10,000 miles for a TSA PreCheck membership

'Free' Clear memberships via credit cards

Since Clear costs $189 per year instead of $85 to $100 every five years, there aren't nearly as many credit cards that provide a free Clear Plus membership as there are with the others. However, there are a few options if you want your travel credit card to pay for your Clear Plus membership.

They include:

• The Platinum Card from American Express
• The Business Platinum Card from American Express
• The Centurion Card from American Express
• American Express® Green Card
• Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

Occasionally, there are targeted Amex Offers covering the cost of Clear Plus membership for those with different American Express cards, so keep your eyes peeled for limited-time offers like that.

The information for the Centurion, Green and Hilton Aspire cards has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Credit cards that save you money on Clear

If you don't have a credit card that makes Clear completely free with statement credits, some additional credit cards can at least reduce your annual Clear membership cost:

• All Delta SkyMiles cobranded Amex cards : $149 annual membership ($40 off the standard rate)
• All United U.S. credit cards : $149 annual membership ($40 off the standard rate)

Save on Clear with a frequent flyer membership

United Airlines, Delta Air Lines and Alaska Airlines offer their frequent flyers free or discounted memberships to Clear.

Discounts from Delta SkyMiles

Top-tier Delta Diamond Medallion members can get Clear for free. The airline's Platinum, Gold and Silver Medallion members can pay a reduced price of $149. The same price applies to those without a Delta credit card .

All Delta SkyMiles members without elite status can get a discounted membership for $179 — a $10 discount.

Similarly, United's Premier 1K members are entitled to free memberships in Clear, while United MileagePlus Platinum, Gold and Silver members can pay $149. Those with a United credit card receive this same discount.

United MileagePlus members without status can access Clear for $179 per year.

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan members can enroll in Clear at a slightly discounted rate of $179 annually.

Mileage Plan members who sign up for Clear will also receive bonus miles: MVP, MVP Gold, MVP Gold 75K and MVP Gold 100K members will receive 1,500 miles, plus an additional 1,250 miles each year they renew.

Clear discounts for families and students

For families, children under 18 can pass through Clear with you for free without needing to scan their eyes or fingerprints.

College students can use a discounted student Clear rate of $60 per year for up to four years.

Clear also has a family plan , and you can add up to three adults to your primary membership for $70 per additional person per year without incurring another full $189 fee for each person every year.

Try Clear for free with a referral code

TPG readers can try Clear for free for two months before deciding if it's worth keeping. Fair warning: In my experience, once you go Clear, you never go back.

Bottom line

Not only do TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and Clear help travelers save time, it's possible to get memberships without breaking the bank. Before you sign up for one or more, see if you can get it for no cost or at a reduced cost through one of these methods.

Related reading:

• Best credit cards for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck of October 2023
• How to sign up for Clear for expedited security at airports and stadiums
• Where is Global Entry accepted?
• 13 things you need to know about Global Entry
• Which airports and airlines use TSA PreCheck?
• Should you get Global Entry or TSA PreCheck?
• Why you should get TSA PreCheck and Clear — and how you can save on both
• Is TSA PreCheck worth it?
• Skip the wait: Enroll in TSA PreCheck at Staples, not the airport
• TSA PreCheck adds four carriers to program, bringing total to 90 participating airlines
• TSA announces Telos as latest TSA PreCheck enrollment provider

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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TSA just added eight new airlines to its PreCheck program

Expedited screening is now available on even more flights

Getting through airport security quickly, thanks to TSA PreCheck is one of the few things travelers can look forward to when flying. PreCheck is not available on all airlines yet, but the Transportation Security Administration announced the addition of eight smaller airlines to the program.

You can now breeze through security with an expedited screening on Air Premia, Air Tahiti Nui, Air Transat, Bahamasair, BermudAir, Iberia, La Compagnie, and New Pacific Airlines.

TSA PreCheck allows you to use a separate lane when departing the U.S., easily moving through the screening process without removing your shoes, belt, or light jacket, or your laptop, food, and liquids (that comply with the 3-1-1 rule) from carry-on luggage. PreCheck is available on nearly 100 airlines at more than 200 U.S. state and territory airports.

Eligible travelers, including U.S. citizens, nationals, and lawful permanent residents, can apply for TSA PreCheck through any enrollment provider. Costs vary by provider. To enroll, visit tsa.gov/precheck, select one of the enrollment providers—IDEMIA or Telos—and complete a brief online application. Then, schedule a 10-minute in-person appointment to complete enrollment.

Once you’re approved, you’ll receive a unique Known Traveler Number (KTN). By adding this number to your flight reservations, you’ll be able to use TSA PreCheck lanes at security checkpoints nationwide. Your boarding pass must have the TSA PreCheck indicator (such as TSAPRECHK, TSA PRE, or TSA Pre✓) to confirm eligibility.

Got questions? AskTSA is available if you need live assistance from 8am to 6pm EST via X or Facebook by messaging @AskTSA or by sending a text to 275-872 ("AskTSA"). You can also call the TSA Contact Center at 866-289-9673 from 8am to 11pm EST on weekdays and 9am to 8pm on weekends and holidays.

• Gerrish Lopez Contributor, New Orleans

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