What is the difference between TSA PreCheck and TSA Clear?

TSA PreCheck and CLEAR are programs that allow for expedited airport security for eligible travelers. 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.



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CLEAR uses your eyes and fingertips rather than traditional IDs to verify your identity when you travel. The most expensive program of the three, CLEAR costs $189 for an annual membership and does not include TSA PreCheck, like Global Entry does.

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Yes. TSA PreCheck® is available when you depart from a U.S. airport to a foreign country, and for domestic, connecting flights after you return to the United States. If you travel internationally four or more times a year, consider enrolling in Global Entry instead of TSA PreCheck®.

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TSA estimates that 95% of TSA PreCheck passengers wait less than five minutes in the security line. This is a small amount of time separating you from the back of the security line to the terminal, meaning the most useful benefit is, of course, saving time.

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The TSA PreCheck® Application Program is only open to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals and lawful permanent residents. Applicants may be ineligible due to incomplete or false application information, certain violations of federal security regulations, or disqualifying criminal offenses and factors.

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TSA PreCheck costs $78 for a five-year membership period. After the initial application fee, PreCheck renewal only costs $70 if completed online. As detailed below, some travel credit cards will help offset this cost. The initial fee breaks down to an average of $17 per year or less than $1.50 per month.

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Many international airports in Canada have Preclearance facilities with Global Entry, allowing travelers to speed through U.S. customs before even boarding their flight back to the States.

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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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TSA PreCheck is one of a few government-run trusted traveler programs, designed to allow members to use expedited security lanes at more than 200 U.S. airports. With TSA PreCheck, you can speed through security without removing your shoes, laptops, belts or jacket.

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Google search traffic for “TSA Precheck” is around its highest level in five years. Most TSA PreCheck applicants must complete an online application, and get approved within three to five days of their in-person enrollment appointment, on average. However, it can take 60 days or longer, the TSA said.

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Can I bring a guest through CLEAR at airport? CLEAR members can add up to three adult family members to their account for just $60 each year. They are then entitled to use CLEAR Plus while traveling with or without you.

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The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA; French: Administration canadienne de la sûreté du transport aérien) is the Canadian Crown Corporation responsible for security screening of people and baggage and the administration of identity cards at the 89 designated airports in Canada.

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How Do I Get TSA Precheck for Free?
  1. Aeroplan® Credit Card.
  2. The Platinum Card® from American Express (Terms apply, see rates & fees)
  3. The Business Platinum Card® from American Express (Terms apply, see rates & fees)
  4. Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card.
  5. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card.


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Global Entry is a federal program allowing members faster screening when returning to the U.S. A five-year membership is $100 and includes TSA Precheck. The Trusted Traveler Programs website estimates application processing times of four to six months for Global Entry.

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The cost for TSA PreCheck® membership renewal varies by enrollment provider. Please find current offerings here. The fee maintains your eligibility for a period of 5 years, and covers the operational costs associated with the background check.

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