What is the difference between clear and Global Entry?

The short answer is that Clear allows members to verify their identity using biometric scanning ahead of airport security, whereas Global Entry expedites re-entry into the U.S. after international travel. Clear allows you to hurry through security lines faster at 50-plus airports around the United States.



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Global Entry has the edge if you travel abroad. Global Entry membership also includes TSA PreCheck, giving you even more opportunity to save time as you travel. Some travelers who are considering Clear vs. Global Entry may want to apply for both — especially if they have a lot of international travel in their future.

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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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Global Entry expedites your return to the U.S. after international travel while Clear helps you skip the ID check at TSA security lines before domestic or international flights. Clear verifies your identity via a fingerprint or an eye scan.

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Unlike TSA PreCheck, Clear is only available at a few dozen domestic airports. Members use a faster line to scan their fingerprint or iris before moving directly to the security lane. Clear is also available at other venues that require lining up for a security check, like stadiums.

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TSA PreCheck and Clear aren't available at every airport, so many frequent travelers find it best to have memberships to both.

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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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In most cases, Global Entry is a better choice, especially if you travel internationally. Not only does it include TSA PreCheck but it will also expedite your re-entry back into the U.S. when you arrive from abroad.

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You'll need to be 18 years or older to apply for Clear and must have one of the following forms of valid and unamended photo identification: A U.S. driver's license, a U.S. passport, a U.S. passport card, a U.S.-issued permanent resident card, a state issued ID, a U.S. military ID, or a Global Entry card.

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You'll need to be 18 years or older to apply for Clear and must have one of the following forms of valid and unamended photo identification: A U.S. driver's license, a U.S. passport, a U.S. passport card, a U.S.-issued permanent resident card, a state issued ID, a U.S. military ID, or a Global Entry card.

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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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