Clear vs. TSA PreCheck: What's the Difference and Which to Get
How painful is it to see people zip past in the TSA PreCheck line while you trudge through the standard security line? Quite painful.
Leave the security line nightmare and awkward stripping for the blue-moon traveler. It’s time to upgrade your traveler status and sign up with a security program. If you’ve ever been blessed with TSA PreCheck on your boarding pass, you understand the pleasant breeziness of the other side. Little to no line, no removal of shoes, outerwear, and belts, and no removal of electronics from bags. Quick and painless. But, wait! There’s another sign, over yonder! It says “CLEAR”. What is CLEAR? What makes it different from TSA PreCheck? Where are your dollars best spent? In this article, I break down the difference between CLEAR and TSA PreCheck and which is better to purchase.
CLEAR
What is it?
CLEAR is a privately-owned registered travel program that uses biometrics to expedite the identity screening process. Instead of the TSA agent checking your government-issued photo ID, CLEAR pods verify your identity with your eyes or fingerprints. CLEAR is Safety Act certified by the Department of Homeland security and is available at over 50 airports, stadiums, and venues in most major cities in the U.S. In addition to expedited identification, CLEAR also has a Health Pass that allows members to share their COVID-19 vaccination status and recent negative test results for airport or venue requirements.
How much is it and where to apply?
CLEAR is $189/year and you can add up to 3 adults (family and friends) to your account for $60 each. Children under 18 years old do not cost extra to add to a membership. The application is quick and easy and available online. Once the online application is completed, visit one of CLEAR’s locations to finish the process.
PRO TIP: Wait to apply for CLEAR when that security line is a major inconvenience. If you’re running late, find a CLEAR ambassador and let them know you’d wish to apply. The application process takes 5-10 minutes, it typically comes with a 60-day free trial, and you get to skip the line right then and there (pending approval)! But make sure to double-check if a free trial promotion is currently running before signing up. *Tip from a CLEAR Ambassador at Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport.
Pros vs. cons
Getting to the front of the security line with ease is a significant pro. But that major pro comes at a steep price. At $189 per year, CLEAR is most advantageous for those who fly frequently per year. And while CLEAR gets you to the front of the security line faster, you must still go through the standard physical screening process which requires you to remove your shoes, jackets, belts, and electronics from your bag.
TSA PreCheck
what is it?
TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Travelers Program administered by TSA. TSA PreCheck expedites the physical screening process at the airport for qualifying low-risk travelers. Some airports feature dedicated lines for enrollees for faster service. Enrollees do not need to remove their shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, or light jackets when screened.
How much is it and where to apply?
TSA PreCheck is $85 per adult for 5 years. Children 12 and under may participate for free with a qualifying adult. Applications take 5 minutes to complete and are submitted online. An in-person appointment must be scheduled subsequently at any of their 500+ enrollment centers. The in-person appointment takes 10 minutes and includes fingerprinting for a background check.
PRO TIP: Many travel credit cards include TSA PreCheck as a free or discounted perk. Check with your credit card for this benefit. Or, sign up for a Trusted Traveler Program, such as Global Entry, that comes with TSA PreCheck complimentary for 5 years.
Pros vs. cons
TSA PreCheck makes the security process fast and easy. TSA PreCheck passengers make it through security in 5 minutes on average and do not have to be inconvenienced with removing clothing and items from their bags. TSA PreCheck is also quite affordable at $85 for a 5-year enrollment. There is no downside!
Which Should You Get?
The answer depends on how often you travel. Regardless of frequency, TSA PreCheck should be in every traveler’s arsenal. It is affordable, has great benefits, and lasts for 5 years. If you average 10+ flights per year from an airport or city that has CLEAR Pods, then you may benefit from both programs. CLEAR can be used outside of the airport to expedite identity verification in stadiums and arenas. If you’d use CLEAR at least 10 times per year, then the $189 annual fee may be worth it for you. Remember to check your travel-focused credit card or loyalty program for TSA PreCheck statement credits. While CLEAR credits are less common, Delta SkyMiles members and United MileagePlus members get reduced rates or complimentary CLEAR memberships (depending on membership tier).
If you’re interested in TSA PreCheck, read here how you can get a complimentary 5-year enrollment. (