With so many security screening options designed to make travel easier, it’s hard to know which to choose. Here’s a breakdown of three popular options to help you decide what’s right for you.
TSA Pre-Check:
TSA Pre-Check is a government-run program that requires a background check and a short, in-person interview at one of the many TSA pre-check screening centers [Click Here for center locations]. This program is great for domestic travelers as it operates in over 200 U.S. airports.
Key Points:
Cost: $85, valid five years
Removal of shoes, belts, and jackets not required
Electronics, including laptops, and liquids remain in carry-on bags
Dedicated TSA security check points and bag screening lanes
Global Entry:
Global Entry is a government-run program best for international travelers who also want the perks of TSA Pre-Check. Global Entry has a similar enrollment process as TSA Pre-Check and includes all the TSA Pre-Check benefits plus it cuts down your immigration and customs processing time when re-entering the U.S.
Key Points:
Cost: $100, valid five years
Auto-enroll in TSA Pre-Check
All TSA Pre-Check perks
Dedicated Immigration Kiosks reduces time spent going through Immigration/Customs
Kiosks currently available in approx. 15 additional countries
Must have valid passport prior to applying
Clear:
Clear is a non-government, privately run program that uses biometrics [iris scans, fingerprints] to eliminate the need to show identification and boarding passes. Think of Clear as a “cut the line pass”. The lines are generally short and you go straight from the Clear kiosk to TSA screening. It doesn’t include the perks of TSA Pre-Check, but it will get you to the front of the regular screening lines fast.
Key Points:
Cost: $179, per year
Get through security in approximately 5-10 minutes
No private screening lanes; must also purchase TSA pre-check to use pre-check lanes
