Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, and CLEAR are all programs designed to expedite airport security and screening processes, but they have different features and purposes:
Global Entry
- Purpose: Primarily for international travelers.
- Benefits: Includes TSA PreCheck benefits, and also provides expedited customs screening when returning to the U.S. from abroad.
- Eligibility: U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, and citizens of certain other countries.
- Application Process: Requires an online application, a background check, and an in-person interview at an enrollment center.
- Cost: $100 for a 5-year membership.
TSA PreCheck
- Purpose: Speeds up domestic airport security for U.S. citizens.
- Benefits: Access to dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes, which allow you to leave on shoes, belts, and light jackets and keep laptops and liquids in your bag.
- Eligibility: U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents.
- Application Process: Requires an online application, a background check, and an in-person interview.
- Cost: $85 for a 5-year membership.
CLEAR
- Purpose: Speeds up the identity verification process at security checkpoints.
- Benefits: Allows you to skip to the front of the TSA security line for identity verification. CLEAR is available for both domestic and international flights and can be used in conjunction with TSA PreCheck.
- Eligibility: U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents.
- Application Process: Requires a quick in-person biometric scan at an enrollment center.
- Cost: $189 annually.
Key Differences:
- Global Entry includes both TSA PreCheck and expedited customs screening for international travelers, making it the most comprehensive option for frequent travelers, especially those flying internationally.
- TSA PreCheck is for quicker security checks on domestic flights, but doesn’t help with customs.
- CLEAR is focused on speeding up identity verification but doesn’t offer other TSA PreCheck benefits. It can be used in combination with either Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.
If you're a frequent international traveler, Global Entry is your best bet, but if you travel domestically, TSA PreCheck is sufficient. CLEAR can be added for an even faster airport experience.