Why You Should Consider Both TSA PreCheck and Clear

No one enjoys standing in long security lines at the airport—it's not only wasted time that could be spent enjoying a nice airport lounge, but it can also make you anxious about missing your flight.

Fortunately, a new partnership between TSA PreCheck and Clear, two fast-track security programs, offers travelers a chance to save time and money.

Here's how it works: If you're already a Clear member, you can enroll in or renew your TSA PreCheck by simply visiting a Clear lane with your ID (driver's license or passport) and informing the agent of your intent to apply. No appointment is needed, and it only takes a few minutes. This route costs $78; if you're just renewing, you can do it online at the TSA website, with a discounted fee of $69 for Clear members.

If you don’t currently have either service, you can apply for both at once on the TSA website. For $199, you’ll receive a five-year TSA PreCheck membership (valued at $78) along with your first year of Clear Plus (costing $122). Clear Plus is Clear's standard airport security expedited service. If applied for separately, the combined cost would be $267.

Remember, after your first year with Clear Plus, your subscription will automatically renew at the standard rate of $189.

The Value of Having Both TSA PreCheck and Clear

Clear allows travelers to skip to the front of the general TSA security line, while TSA PreCheck provides a dedicated lane that is usually much shorter than the regular line. In the TSA PreCheck lane, passengers can keep their shoes, belts, and light jackets on, and they’re not required to remove larger electronics or liquids from their bags. Those with both TSA PreCheck and Clear can jump ahead in the TSA PreCheck line without needing to take off these items.

In most airports, having both services may only reduce your wait time by a few minutes. However, during peak travel seasons or at particularly busy airports like Denver International, having both Clear and TSA PreCheck can save you significant time and expedite your travel.

Additionally, while TSA PreCheck operates in over 200 airports across the U.S., Clear Plus is only available in a little more than 50 airports. Thus, having both services allows you to use TSA PreCheck at airports where Clear isn’t yet accessible.

Travelers looking to acquire both Clear and TSA PreCheck can have their fees reduced or even waived entirely by using a credit card that covers the costs of these programs as a membership benefit.