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Is clear worth it for TSA?

Yes. If you're a frequent flier, it might make sense to get Clear so you can zip through identity verification and then get placed on the TSA PreCheck luggage screening line, where you can keep your shoes on, leave your laptop in your bag, and skip the scanner.



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CLEAR is often faster than TSA PreCheck since it lets members verify their identity with biometrics instead of having them stand in line to show identification.

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If you regularly fly out of a busy airport or one that has been known to have long TSA PreCheck lines, Clear may be a compelling option. And keep in mind that Clear is available at over 67 locations, including airports and stadiums.

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Clear is not necessarily better than Global Entry, as both programs improve the experience of two very different parts of travel. Clear saves you time going through security screenings ahead of travel, while Global Entry saves you time at customs when reentering the U.S. after international travel.

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Last year Clear (another U.S.-based security expediting platform that costs $189 per year) acquired virtual queuing company Whyline and has since partnered with airports in North America and Europe to develop a security line reservation system called Reserve by Clear.

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Which credit cards offer CLEAR for free? Currently, the credit cards that offer a complimentary annual CLEAR Plus membership are the Amex Platinum card, Amex Business Platinum card, American Express® Green Card, and Centurion® Card from American Express. Is CLEAR the same as TSA PreCheck?

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How to Get Through Airport Security Quickly, According to a TSA Insider
  1. Enroll in TSA PreCheck or Clear. ...
  2. Wear shoes you can easily slip off. ...
  3. Make sure none of your clothes contain metal. ...
  4. Pack your carry-on (relatively) neatly. ...
  5. Make sure you're following TSA's 3-1-1 liquid rule. ...
  6. Empty your water bottle.


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It costs $78 to apply for TSA PreCheck or $100 to apply for Global Entry (which includes TSA PreCheck, if approved). If you apply for TSA PreCheck first, you will have to pay another fee for Global Entry if you decide to apply later.

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Those with Clear membership only have access to faster security lanes. Without TSA PreCheck, Clear members must still remove their shoes, electronics, liquids and outerwear. But the choice of TSA PreCheck versus Clear doesn't have to be an either-or proposition.

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If you already have TSA PreCheck and want to shave off more time, it can be a worthwhile purchase when you use locations that offer CLEAR. Let's say you travel once a month and CLEAR saves you 30 minutes each trip. Roundtrip, you get an extra hour of your time back, adding up to 12 hours saved per year.

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Clear does not include the membership features of TSA PreCheck, however. After passing through a Clear kiosk, if you have PreCheck, you can go directly to the PreCheck lane (ahead of other passengers waiting in line); if not, you must use the regular screening line (also ahead of other passengers waiting in line).

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UK citizens are eligible for Global Entry, but must first apply with the UK Home Office before submitting a Global Entry application. UK citizens will apply through GOV.UK and pay a £42 processing fee.

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The only potential downsides of Global Entry is that it requires fingerprinting and background check and costs $100 every 5 years. Scheduling and completing your Global Entry interview can also be a hassle, which is why taking advantage of Enrollment on Arrival can be wise.

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If you hold Delta's coveted Diamond Medallion status, you can get a Clear® membership for free. Likewise, those with United Premier 1K status also receive complimentary membership.

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