TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry vs. Clear

By Carly Coombs | Posted: Nov. 11, 2024

If you dread going through airport security, you’ve probably looked at some programs that allow expedited screening processes and wondered if they are worth it. 

There are a few expedited security programs — TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and Clear. Each program varies and is tailored to different needs, so it will be up to you to determine which one works best for you. 

TSA PreCheck 

TSA PreCheck allows for faster screening for domestic flights and is operated by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA). PreCheck uses dedicated lines, which are typically shorter, and you don’t need to remove your shoes, belts, or jackets or take electronics out of your bag. 

If you’re traveling as a family, children 12 years old and younger can go through PreCheck with an adult who has PreCheck. Children between 13-17 will need to have the PreCheck logo on their boarding pass to go through the line. 

To enroll in PreCheck, you can either start an application online and finish the process in person or do the entire process at a TSA enrollment location. For the process, you’ll need to bring documents to prove your identity and citizenship status, be fingerprinted, and have your photo taken. You can find information on how to start the process on TSA’s website. 

Enrolling costs about $78 and is valid for five years. Currently, TSA’s website states the minimum processing time is 3-5 days, with a maximum of 60 days. 

Global Entry 

Global Entry is for travelers who frequently fly internationally as it allows for expedited screening when reentering the United States.

When returning from your international trip, you can use Global Entry while going through U.S. Customs and Border Control at the airport. Travelers with Global Entry won’t need to fill out paperwork and will go through an expedited line to speed up the reentry process. 

Global Entry also comes with TSA PreCheck, which you can use when taking U.S. domestic flights. If you are traveling with your family, each person, including children, will need to enroll in Global Entry in order to go through expedited screening together.

Luckily for families, children younger than 18 do not have to pay the fee for Global Entry as long as a parent or guardian is already a member or has submitted an application.

To sign up for Global Entry, you’ll have to complete an online application and then finish the process at an enrollment center, including fingerprinting and taking your photo.

TSA recommends that, if you’re traveling internationally within the next six months, you complete your enrollment on arrival if your arrival airport allows. 

Global Entry costs $120 for adults (the cost was increased from $100 on Oct. 1, 2024.) and is valid for five years. 

Clear

Clear is run by a private company and is separate from the TSA. It’s currently only offered in U.S. airports. 

At airports with Clear, you can bypass the screening line by having your identity verified at Clear kiosks, and then a Clear employee will escort you to the front of the line to continue the actual screening process. Clear verifies your identity by collecting biometric data (fingerprints and iris scans) during your application process. 

If you are traveling as a family, children 17 and younger can go through Clear if accompanied by an adult with a Clear membership. 

One important distinction is that Clear doesn’t expedite the actual screening process. Even if you have this membership, you’ll still undergo the normal security process, such as taking off your shoes, removing your laptop from your bag, etc. 

The main benefit to consider is that it allows you to skip the line once your identity has been verified, saving you loads of time if you’re in a rush or traveling on a busy day. 

Clear memberships have to be renewed annually and cost $199 per year. Some credit cards offer discounts or provide memberships, and Delta, United, Alaska, and Hawaiian Airlines provide discounts to some loyalty members. 

Clear is also a TSA PreCheck enrollment partner and offers bundles for customers to enroll in both Clear and PreCheck, but separate applications are still required.