TSA PreCheck, Global Entry & CLEAR: Which Programs Are Worth It?

The Three Programs Explained

TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and CLEAR are three separate trusted traveler programs operated by different US government agencies and private entities. They address different parts of the airport security and customs process, and they complement rather than replace each other. Understanding what each one does — and which combination makes sense for your travel pattern — saves meaningful time across a year of frequent flying.

TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck is a Transportation Security Administration program that allows pre-approved travelers to use expedited security lanes at over 200 US airports. PreCheck lanes do not require removal of shoes, laptops, or liquids from bags, and they typically process in under five minutes compared to standard lanes. Membership costs $78 for a five-year term (renewal is $70) and requires an in-person appointment with a background check. PreCheck is included within Global Entry at no additional cost.

Global Entry — The Better Value for International Travelers

Global Entry is a US Customs and Border Protection program that expedites the re-entry process for approved travelers returning to the United States from international destinations. Approved travelers use automated kiosks at US airports rather than standard immigration queues, clearing in approximately two minutes. The program costs $100 for a five-year term and includes TSA PreCheck automatically. For any traveler who flies internationally at least once a year, Global Entry is the better value — it covers both the outbound security lane and the inbound customs clearance.

CLEAR — The Biometric Identity Layer

CLEAR is a private company that uses biometric data — fingerprints and iris scans — to verify a traveler's identity at the airport, replacing the document check that precedes the security queue. CLEAR does not provide access to PreCheck lanes; it gets you to the front of the standard security lane (or the PreCheck lane, if you have it) faster by eliminating the ID verification step. Annual membership is $189, and it is included with some premium credit cards. CLEAR pairs most effectively with PreCheck — CLEAR handles the identity check, PreCheck handles the screening itself.

Which Combination Is Optimal?

For frequent domestic travelers: TSA PreCheck alone ($78/5 years) is sufficient. For travelers who fly internationally at least once a year: Global Entry ($100/5 years, includes PreCheck) is the correct choice. For travelers who fly weekly and value maximum speed at major US airports: CLEAR plus Global Entry delivers the fastest possible airport process. Many premium credit cards reimburse Global Entry or PreCheck application fees as a card benefit, making the effective cost zero for cardholders who check their benefits before applying.