CLEAR vs Global Entry vs TSA PreCheck

When traveling, there are plenty of ways to save time in lines, but there are lots of options. The top 3 you may see or hear of are CLEAR, TSA PreCheck, and Global Entry. There are some major differences between the three, so read below to see which works best for your budget and lifestyle.

If you decide to get TSA PreCheck and/or Global Entry, make sure you are going to a .gov website! It is a government-issued identification, so you must go to a .gov website or it is not real and could steal valuable information.

CLEAR

• $179 per year

• Best for expediting the ID security check-in (checking of passport, Real ID, etc.)

• Clear offers you the option of checking-in for the security screening by using a separate kiosk and doing a biometric scanning (eyes, fingerprints, face) that say that you are indeed you, instead of handing over your passport or Real ID at the check-in.

• CLEAR is available some domestic airports and entertainment venues. For a full list, click here.

TSA PreCheck

• $85

• The $85 fee covers 5 years of TSA PreCheck

• TSA PreCheck expedites the physical security screening aspect of TSA. So you are able to keep your liquids and electronics in your bag, and keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on. The lines for TSA PreCheck are usually quicker due to this and shorter due to needing PreCheck approval for it.

• TSA PreCheck is only available at domestic US airports. It does not work at international airports due to TSA being a US government entity.

• To get TSA PreCheck, you submit an online application and schedule an appointment. The 10-minute appointment includes fingerprinting and a background check.

• This is best for people who travel mainly domestically.

Global Entry

• Global Entry is $100 for 5 years.

• It also includes TSA PreCheck in the fee.

• Global Entry gives you access to TSA PreCheck and also expedites the customs part of returning to the USA. Going through customs can take an hour+ if it is a busy airport or you’re coming back on a full plane from an international trip.

• For Global Entry, when you return from an international trip, instead of waiting in line for your declaration (where you write down if you’re bringing anything back, what you’re bringing back, and how much it costs), you go to a designated kiosk. For example, you cannot bring back animal products, plants/seeds, etc. You normally write it on a sheet of paper given to you on the flight, wait in line, give it to a CBP agent, and then you’re granted through. At the designated Global Entry kiosks, you make your declarations there, and you’re able to skip the line.

• To get Global Entry, you submit an online application and schedule an in-person appointment. The interview usually takes place at your airport and lasts about 10-15 minutes. Be sure to bring your passport as they scan it, your fingerprints, and do a background check. They also need you to recall every country you’ve visited over the past 5 years and what your reasoning was for those trips.

• I personally have Global Entry since I tend to travel more internationally than domestically, and I get PreCheck included. I think this option makes most sense, but if you don’t travel internationally, then stick with TSA PreCheck and save the $15.

Which sounds like the best option for you?