TSA PreCheck vs. Clear: Which Option Is Best for Speeding Up Your Travel in 2024?

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Going through airport security can often feel like a lengthy and frustrating ordeal. With long queues and complex procedures, simply reaching your gate can be draining.

Programs like TSA PreCheck and Clear are designed to expedite your travel experience through security checkpoints, offering perks like quicker screenings and biometric identity checks. By enrolling in these programs, you can benefit from shorter security lines and bypass some of the more tedious aspects of airport procedures. Select travel credit cards may even cover the enrollment fee.

TSA PreCheck and Clear each offer unique benefits and operate as distinct programs. They have different application processes, requirements, advantages, and fee structures. However, there is increasing alignment, as customers can now enroll in TSA PreCheck at Clear kiosks located in select airports like LaGuardia, Newark, Orlando, Sacramento, Salt Lake City, and Seattle. If you're struggling to choose between TSA PreCheck and Clear, we've got the information you need. Here’s a detailed overview of each program to assist you in making a well-informed choice.

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What exactly is TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck is a reliable traveler program managed by the Transportation Security Administration. It offers low-risk travelers expedited security screening at more than 200 airports across the US. Members of TSA PreCheck pay a $78 application fee and must complete a background check. Once approved, TSA PreCheck membership is valid for up to five years. Renewal costs are slightly lower at $70 and can be considered worthwhile for many.

Approved TSA PreCheck travelers can utilize a dedicated security lane at over 200 US airports, allowing them to keep their shoes, belts, and light jackets on, as well as leave laptops and compliant liquids in their carry-on bags. This streamlines the security checkpoint experience, making it faster and more convenient.

Ideal for: Travelers seeking faster security screenings at a wide range of US airports.

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How to submit an application for TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck is available exclusively to US citizens, US nationals, and permanent residents. You can apply online. An interview and a background check are part of the process. If you have any criminal offenses on your record, it may affect your eligibility for PreCheck.

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Credit cards that reimburse TSA PreCheck application fees

While the $78 application fee for TSA PreCheck is reasonable, you may not need to pay it directly. Many credit cards reimburse the TSA PreCheck application fees, often providing a $100 credit for either Global Entry or PreCheck. Since Global Entry costs $100 and includes TSA PreCheck automatically, opting for Global Entry can give you access to both programs for the price of one.

Here’s a comprehensive list of credit cards that provide TSA PreCheck application fee reimbursements:

• Aeroplan® Credit Card

• American Airlines Credit Union Visa® Signature credit

• Arvest Visa Signature® Credit Card

• Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

• Capital One Spark Miles for Business

• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

• Capital One Venture X Business

• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

• Certain American Express® Credit Cards*

• Chase Sapphire Reserve®

• Choice Privileges® Select Mastercard®

• Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite^TM MasterCard®

• Citi Prestige® Card

• Commerce Bank® World Elite Mastercard®

• Diners Club® Carte Blanche® Corporate Card

• HSBC Elite World Elite Mastercard®

• HSBC Premier World Mastercard®

• IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card (Note: Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS Statement Credit of up to $100 ($120 starting 10/1/24)

• IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card (Note: Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS Statement Credit of up to $100 ($120 starting 10/1/24)

• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

• MasterCard® Black Card™

• MasterCard® Gold Card™

• Navy Federal's Visa Signature® Flagship Rewards Card

• PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card

• Provident World+ Travel®

• Southwest Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card

• Truist Business Travel Rewards credit card

• Truist Enjoy Beyond credit card

• Truist Enjoy Travel credit card

• UBS Visa Infinite Credit Card

• United ClubSM Infinite Card

• UnitedSM Explorer Card

• United QuestSM Card

• USAA Eagle Navigator™ Visa Signature® Credit Card

• U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card

• U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card

• U.S. Bank FlexPerks® Gold American Express® Card

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What exactly is Clear?

Clear is a trusted traveler program that utilizes biometric technology to streamline identity verification at security checkpoints. Available at over 50 airports and arenas across the US, Clear members can bypass traditional lines by using a kiosk for an iris scan or fingerprint, allowing them to proceed to security without presenting their ID to a TSA agent. However, random ID checks by agents may still occur.

Clear is perfect for frequent travelers who prioritize speed and convenience, especially at large, crowded airports with long security waits. With Clear’s Reserve feature, members can even book their place in line at select locations.

Clear also attracts those who prefer to avoid the background checks mandated by TSA PreCheck. Although it comes with a $199 annual fee, which is significantly higher than similar programs, Clear can greatly reduce the time and hassle associated with airport navigation.

Ideal for: Travelers seeking to streamline TSA identification checks using biometric technology.

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How to sign up for Clear

You can initiate the Clear enrollment process online or at an airport kiosk. The signup is generally quick, and airport locations typically have staff available to assist. If you apply online, you'll still need to visit a Clear kiosk at the airport to confirm your identity and provide biometric data. Clear is available to US citizens and legal permanent residents aged 18 and older.

The cost of Clear membership is $199 annually for individuals. A family membership allows you to add up to three adults for an additional $70 each. Family members can use Clear independently of the primary member. Children under 18 can accompany Clear members at no extra charge.

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Credit cards that reimburse Clear membership costs

You can have the $199 Clear membership fee waived with select credit cards or if you hold elite status with United.

United Premier 1K and Global Services members receive complimentary Clear membership. Silver, Gold, and Platinum members enjoy a $40 discount, while non-elite members get a $10 reduction.

Additionally, certain credit cards can cover your Clear membership fee. The following cards fully reimburse the $199 Clear membership fee (with noted exceptions):

• American Express® Green Card*

• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

• The Platinum Card® from American Express

• United Club℠ Infinite Card (now $149)

• United Club℠ Business Card (now $149)

• United℠ Business Card (now $149)

• United℠ Explorer Card (now $149)

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TSA PreCheck vs. Clear comparison

Whether you're a frequent flyer or a casual traveler, both TSA PreCheck and Clear can greatly improve your airport experience and save you precious time. While both programs aim to expedite security, they operate in distinct ways. TSA PreCheck streamlines the process with dedicated lanes and less intrusive screening measures.

In contrast, Clear utilizes biometric technology for quicker identity verification, facilitating a faster process at airport checkpoints. After completing your verification at a Clear kiosk, a Clear agent will take you straight to the front of the security line without any wait.

The price can significantly affect your choice between these two options. TSA PreCheck has a membership fee of $78 for five years, whereas Clear requires an annual payment of $199. Unlike TSA PreCheck, which necessitates a criminal background check, Clear does not have this requirement.

TSA PreCheck

• Fee: $78 for five years

• Expedited security screening: Yes

• Expedited ID check via biometric scanning: No

• Requires background check: Yes

• Best for: Travelers seeking faster security processing at numerous US airports.

• Credit cards waiving fees: 39 credit cards

• Credit cards offering discounts: N/A

• Airlines offering elite status discounts: N/A

Clear

• Fee: $199 per year

• Expedited security screening: No

• Expedited ID check via biometric scanning: Yes

• Requires background check: No

• Best for: Travelers who prefer faster TSA identity checks using biometric technology.

• Credit cards waiving fees: The Business Platinum Card® from American Express; The Platinum Card® from American Express; American Express® Green Card

• Credit cards offering discounts: United ClubSM Infinite Card; United Club℠ Business Card; United℠ Business Card; UnitedSM Explorer Card

• Airlines offering elite status discounts: United Premier 1K; United Global Services members; United Silver, Gold, and Platinum members ($40 off); United MileagePlus members ($10 off)

A comparison of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry: Choosing the right option for you

Which program is the right choice for you?

Evaluate your travel patterns and priorities to find the most suitable program. If you often fly within the U.S. and desire a smooth security experience, TSA PreCheck might be your best bet. With availability at over 200 U.S. airports, you’ll have ample chances to utilize this benefit.

However, keep in mind that PreCheck can become quite congested at times, and not all travelers may experience expedited security processing.

Clear’s biometric ID verification enables you to bypass the ID check at 51 U.S. airports and select sports arenas and concert venues. This can greatly reduce wait times and offer added convenience if you travel from one of the limited airports using Clear. When making your decision, select the program that best fits your travel style and requirements.

Since each program enhances a different part of the airport security process, enrolling in both may be advantageous—especially if you can waive the application fees through credit cards or airline elite status.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better: Clear or TSA PreCheck?

For most travelers, TSA PreCheck is often the superior choice as it provides quicker security screening at a more affordable price and is accessible at a larger number of airports across the country.

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Can you use Clear to access TSA PreCheck?

Clear and TSA PreCheck operate as independent programs, so having Clear does not automatically grant you access to TSA PreCheck. You need to apply for and be approved for both services separately to benefit from expedited airport security screening.

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What benefits does TSA PreCheck offer?

TSA PreCheck offers numerous benefits, such as faster security screening, shorter lines, and the convenience of keeping your shoes, belts, and light jackets on. It also allows you to keep your laptop and liquids in your bag while going through security at participating US airports.

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How long does it take to receive TSA PreCheck approval?

The TSA PreCheck approval timeline can vary based on interview availability. Conditional approvals usually take 3-5 days but may extend up to 60 days. After receiving conditional approval, you'll need to schedule an interview to answer some questions and confirm your documents, which can be done upon arrival at selected airports globally.

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What distinguishes TSA PreCheck from a Known Traveler Number?

A Known Traveler Number is assigned to individuals who are granted TSA PreCheck approval. When purchasing an airline ticket, you can input this number in the appropriate field, ensuring that your boarding pass indicates your PreCheck eligibility for expedited security screening.

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* Eligibility and benefit levels may vary by card. Terms, conditions, and limitations apply. For further details, please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.

Editorial disclaimer: The views expressed here are solely those of the author and do not reflect those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline, or hotel chain. These opinions have not been reviewed, approved, or endorsed by any of these entities.