As airlines get better at navigating the world after COVID, non-essential travel has very slowly begun to creep back into our lives. For those choosing to fly this fall, traveling safely and efficiently is at the top of many people’s lists. TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and Clear are all programs that can expedite your airport experience. Knowing the differences between them can help you choose which is best to add to your travel repertoire.
TSA PreCheck
TSA PreCheck is the most popular of the three programs. It’s also the cheapest at $85 for a five-year membership. Any frequent flyer who’s a citizen or lawful resident of the United States can apply. After filling out an online application, participating in an in-person background check and being fingerprinted, you’ll receive a Known Traveler Number that you can attach to your ticket reservation to apply the benefit. Available at more than 200 airports nationwide, members don’t need to remove their shoes, jacket, laptop, or liquids for the screening process. Children of members under the age of 12 also qualify.
Global Entry
Global Entry is ideal for anyone traveling internationally. At $100 for a five-year membership, it’s slightly more expensive than TSA PreCheck, but Global Entry includes it as an added benefit. Unlike PreCheck, children are required to get their own membership, at the same expense as adults. Available at dozens of airports internationally both in the United States and internationally, this program allows members to skip the long line at customs by checking in with their passport at a self-serve kiosk. The application process is very similar to PreCheck. Those interested must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident, complete an online form, pay the fee, and pass a background check.
Clear
Clear, unlike TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, is not run by the government, but a private company. At the most expensive, Clear will run you $179 per year. Instead of presenting your ID at the security checkpoint as you normally would, members proceed to a Clear kiosk where their eye and fingerprints are scanned. From there, you can jump to the front of the security line. To join, you must be 18 or older and have a valid government-issued ID. While it is the priciest program, it’s the only one that offers a free trial, discounts to Delta and United frequent flyers, and allows the members of children up to age 18 to use the benefits for free.
