When traveling by air, there are several options to speed up your security check-in process and it can be confusing. The three main types are TSA Pre-Check, Global Entry and Clear. They each have their own benefits, application process and costs. Which one is best for you depends on your budget and travel plans. Here’s a breakdown of each one to help you decide.
TSA Pre-Check
What Is It: expedited screening check to speed up the process of going through security at airports. It allows you to avoid the longer lines of general security. It’s available to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals or lawful permanent residents. There is no age restriction and is valid at over 200 airports and 85 airlines.
Benefits: no need to remove shoes, belts, laptops, jackets or 3-1-1 bags and skip the main lines.
How do you apply: quick online application and a screening interview in person, plus you will need approved documents, such as a U.S. passport or birth certificate.
What does it cost: $78 valid for a five-year period. Some airline reward credit cards will give you a full credit for the cost of TSA Pre-check.
Best for: travelers that fly domestically. It can really save you time waiting in line.
Global Entry
What is it: offered by the Department of Homeland Security, it speeds up the process of entering the U.S. through customs when traveling internationally. With Global Entry, you are also automatically enrolled in TSA Pre-Check. Open to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. Available at less airports than Pre-Check.
Benefits: In addition to all the Pre-Check benefits, you will be expedited through customs when re-entering the U.S.
How do you apply: online application plus in-person interview that is more in-depth than the TSA Pre-Check. You will need required documents to apply.
What does it cost: $100 for five year period, but includes TSA Pre-Check. Some airline reward credit cards will give you a full credit for the cost of Global Entry.
Best for: international travelers
CLEAR
What is it: like TSA Pre-Check, it speeds up the security check-in process, but by allowing you to bypass security all together. It’s not as widely available as Pre-Check though. CLEAR is owned by a private company, while TSA is run by the U.S. government.
Benefits: you can skip security all together by going right to a CLEAR kiosk, and once verified, you are escorted through security by a CLEAR agent.
How do you apply: online or at airports, with no background check needed. Open to U.S. citizens or permanent legal residents over the age of 18.
What does it cost: $189 per year, with a free 2-month trial period. Some airline reward credit cards will give you a full credit for the cost of CLEAR.
Best for: frequent domestic travelers who want to save the maximum amount of time and make sure they have a fast pass at all airports.
OPINION
If you do any sort of airline traveling, getting a fast pass can save you lots of time and aggravation. It seems like the lines to get into airport security get longer and longer every day. If you are a frequent traveler, they are a must have. The cost of these programs far outweigh the benefits. However, if you only travel occasionally, then the fees might not make sense for you. If you only can afford one program, TSA Pre-Check is the most affordable, and don’t forget to check your rewards credit cards to see if they will reimburse you for the cost of these programs.
