TSA Pre-Check, Gobal Entry, and Clear: What’s The Difference?

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

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Megan Beckley

Megan Beckley

I’m a wandering Virginia girl with a serious thirst for travel. When I’m on the road, I’ve got one goal: create an authentic experience without breaking the bank. When I’m not traveling, I maintain my 9-5 work-life while carving out time to play tourist in my own city.

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