What is the difference between TSA and CLEAR?

TSA PreCheck is offered through the government at more than 200 airports, whereas CLEAR is a private company that operates at more than 50 airports, stadiums, and other venues nationwide. TSA PreCheck membership costs $85 and lasts for five years, while CLEAR requires an annual membership fee of $189.



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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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Together, TSA PreCheck® and CLEAR Plus give you the fastest way to your gate—without waiting in line to show your I.D. at airport security (CLEAR Plus), and without removing shoes, laptops, 3-1-1 liquids, belts, or light jackets (TSA PreCheck®).

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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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The TSA's liquid limit for carry-ons—known as the 3-1-1 rule—allows travelers to pack liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes under 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) in their carry-on bags. Passengers are allowed up to one quart-sized bag per person, or roughly nine 3.4-ounce containers in a single quart-sized bag.

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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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The best way to get TSA PreCheck for free is by carrying an eligible credit card. Dozens of credit cards reimburse the TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fee if you use that card to pay upfront. Here's a quick overview of some of these cards.

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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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There's often just a single TSA staffer checking documents for both the TSA PreCheck line and the regular security line, so enrolling in Clear can save you valuable time. Additionally, you can stack those expedited line benefits, and Clear members enjoy more predictable access to security.

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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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3.4 ounces or less per container. 1 quart size, clear, plastic, zip top bag (all liquids must fit in bag) 1 bag per passenger.

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How long does it take to get approved? Most applicants receive approval notification in 3-5 days, though some applications can take up to 60 days. Considering this, applicants are encouraged to renew at least 60 days prior to expiry. TSA will notify members with eligibility results.

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Clear is a company that utilizes biometrics to allow individuals to identify themselves in just a few seconds with the scan of a finger or an eye. More than 12 million people use its products, which are currently available across 71 locations in the U.S., including 53 airports and 18 arenas and stadiums.

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What is the cost of a CLEAR membership? A CLEAR membership costs $189 annually, and you can add up to three family members for $60 each per year. Additionally, all family members under 18 years old can use the CLEAR lane without a membership when traveling with their parents.

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Yes, toothpaste is considered a liquid when flying and must be within the 3.4oz (100ml) limit for liquids in order to bring it in your carry-on bag. Any amount larger than that must be checked with your luggage.

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Toothpaste is considered a liquid by the TSA (Transport Security Agency), even though it's technically a paste. In fact, all pastes, gels, waxes, and lotions are also classified as liquids. And even today, these substances are still restricted by the 3-1-1 rule in hand luggage due to safety threats.

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You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. This is also known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

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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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Approvals typically take 3-5 days, but may take up to 60 days. CLEAR Plus¹ is a paid annual membership that verifies your identity using your eyes or fingerprints at airport security. Enroll in minutes and start using your CLEAR Plus Membership right away at 50+ locations nationwide.

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