Skip the Lines! The Ultimate Guide to US Airport Fast Track: TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry vs. CLEAR (Costs, Application Steps & Real Experiences)

Long airport security lines are one of the most frustrating parts of traveling in the U.S. In 2026, three programs promise faster airport screening and immigration clearance: TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and CLEAR.

But which one is actually worth your money?
Which is best for international travelers, students, or frequent domestic flyers?

This 2026 Ultimate U.S. Airport Fast-Track Guide breaks down TSA PreCheck vs Global Entry vs CLEAR with real-world usage, costs, eligibility, application steps, and honest pros & cons—so you can choose the right one with confidence.

Quick Comparison: TSA PreCheck vs Global Entry vs CLEAR 

Feature	TSA PreCheck	Global Entry	CLEAR
Main Benefit	Faster TSA security	Faster U.S. immigration + TSA	Skip ID lines using biometrics
Best For	Domestic U.S. flights	International travelers	Frequent flyers at busy airports
Cost	~$78-$85 / 5 years	$120 / 5 years	~$189 / year
Includes TSA PreCheck	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	❌ No
Uses Biometrics	❌ No	❌ Limited	✅ Yes
Credit Card Reimbursement	✅ Often	✅ Very common	⚠️ Some cards
Enrollment Difficulty	Easy	Medium (interview required)	Easy

What Is TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck is a U.S. government–run trusted traveler program that lets approved passengers use expedited security screening at participating U.S. airports.

What TSA PreCheck Does

With TSA PreCheck, you can use a dedicated security lane that’s typically much faster than standard TSA lines. In most cases, you can:

• Keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on

• Leave laptops and liquids in your carry-on

• Go through security with less waiting and fewer hassles

On average, TSA reports that most PreCheck travelers wait under 10 minutes at security.

Where It Works

• Available at 200+ U.S. airports

• Supported by 90+ airlines (including American, Delta, United, Alaska, JetBlue, etc.)

• U.S. domestic flights only (does not speed up immigration when returning from abroad)

Who Is Eligible

• U.S. citizens

• U.S. lawful permanent residents (green card holders)

Applicants must pass a background check and attend a brief in-person enrollment appointment.

Cost & Validity

• $78 for 5 years (new application)

• $70 for 5-year renewal (online, if eligible)

Many U.S. travel credit cards reimburse the TSA PreCheck fee, making it effectively free for frequent travelers.

How It Works After Approval

Once approved, you receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN).

Add this number to your airline reservations, and your boarding pass will show “TSA PreCheck” when eligible.

Best For

• Frequent domestic U.S. travelers

• Business travelers

• Anyone who hates long security lines but doesn’t travel internationally often

📌 Important: TSA PreCheck speeds up security screening only. If you travel internationally, Global Entry may offer better overall value since it includes TSA PreCheck benefits.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Check Eligibility

• Must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.

• No disqualifying criminal history.

Step 2: Fill Out the Online Application

• Go to the TSA PreCheck website: https://www.tsa.gov/precheck

• Click “Apply Now”

• Complete the online form with personal information, contact details, and citizenship status.

• Submit the application.

Step 3: Schedule an In-Person Enrollment Appointment

• After submitting the online application, choose a nearby enrollment center.

• Appointments are typically 15–30 minutes long.

• Bring required documents, such as:

  • Valid passport or driver’s license + birth certificate

  • Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency

Step 4: Attend the Enrollment Appointment

• You’ll provide fingerprints for a background check.

• Your documents will be verified.

• Pay the $78 application fee (credit/debit card accepted).

Step 5: Wait for Approval

• Background check takes 2–3 weeks on average.

• If approved, you’ll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN).

Step 6: Add Your KTN to Your Airline Profiles

• Enter your KTN when booking flights.

• Your boarding pass will show TSA PreCheck, allowing you to use the expedited lanes.

Tips to Speed Up the Process

• Book your appointment at a less busy enrollment center.

• Make sure all documents are valid and original.

• Some credit cards reimburse the $78 fee, so check your benefits.

What Is Global Entry?

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to skip long immigration and customs lines when entering the U.S. from international travel.

Think of it as TSA PreCheck for international arrivals, but it also includes TSA PreCheck benefits for domestic flights.

Key Benefits of Global Entry

• Expedited U.S. Immigration

  • Use automatic kiosks at many U.S. airports instead of waiting in long passport lines.

  • Scan your passport and fingerprints, answer customs questions, and receive a receipt to bypass traditional processing.

• TSA PreCheck Included

  • Every approved Global Entry member automatically qualifies for TSA PreCheck, so you get faster security for domestic flights.

• Works at Major U.S. Airports

  • Available at over 60 airports in the U.S.

  • Many airports have dedicated Global Entry kiosks for faster processing.

Eligibility

• U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, and citizens of select countries (e.g., Mexico, Singapore, South Korea).

• Must have no disqualifying criminal record or customs violations.

Cost & Validity

• $120 application fee for 5 years.

• Fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied.

• Many premium credit cards reimburse the Global Entry fee.

How It Works

• Apply online through the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website.

• Complete a background check and submit documents.

• Schedule an in-person interview at a Global Entry enrollment center.

• Once approved, use your Global Entry card or kiosk to expedite customs when returning to the U.S.

Best For

• Frequent international travelers entering the U.S.

• Business travelers with tight schedules

• Anyone who wants both TSA PreCheck and faster U.S. immigration processing

✅ Tip: If you travel internationally even once a year, Global Entry often provides more value than TSA PreCheck alone.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Check Eligibility

• Must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident, or a citizen of a participating country.

• Must have no disqualifying criminal record, customs violations, or immigration issues.

Step 2: Create a TTP (Trusted Traveler Programs) Account

• Go to the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website: https://ttp.cbp.dhs.gov/

• Click “Log In / Apply”

• Create a personal account if you don’t have one already.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application

• Fill out personal information, travel history, and employment details.

• Disclose any criminal history, customs violations, or prior immigration issues.

• Review and submit the $100 non-refundable application fee.

Step 4: Conditional Approval

• CBP will review your application.

• If everything checks out, you’ll receive Conditional Approval via your TTP account.

Step 5: Schedule an In-Person Interview

• After conditional approval, schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center.

• Bring the following:

  • Valid passport

  • Permanent resident card (if applicable)

  • Any other supporting documents requested

Step 6: Attend the Interview

• The officer will:

  • Verify your identity and documents

  • Take fingerprints

  • Ask a few questions about your travel and background

• If approved, you will immediately receive access to use Global Entry kiosks at airports.

Step 7: Add Your Known Traveler Number (KTN)

• Once approved, your KTN automatically grants TSA PreCheck eligibility.

• Add the KTN to your airline profiles for expedited domestic security.

Tips for a Smooth Application

• Use a passport that is valid for at least 6 months.

• Schedule your interview at a less busy enrollment center for quicker availability.

• Many credit cards reimburse the $100 fee, making Global Entry effectively free.

What Is CLEAR?

CLEAR is a private, membership-based service that allows travelers to bypass the standard TSA security line using biometric verification (fingerprints or iris scan) instead of showing ID and boarding passes.

Think of CLEAR as a super-fast lane to the front of airport security, which can be combined with TSA PreCheck for maximum speed through security.

Key Benefits of CLEAR

• Skip the ID Check

  • CLEAR members verify their identity at a dedicated CLEAR kiosk using fingerprint or eye scan.

  • You’re escorted directly to the physical security screening area (or TSA PreCheck lane if you have it).

• Available at Many U.S. Airports

  • Present at over 50 airports, plus stadiums and arenas in select cities.

  • Reduces wait times, especially during peak travel hours.

• Works with TSA PreCheck

  • CLEAR itself does not replace TSA security screening.

  • Combining CLEAR + TSA PreCheck allows you to skip both ID check and the long PreCheck/security lines.

Eligibility

• Must be 18 years or older

• Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident

• No criminal background check is required for membership

Cost & Membership

• $189 per year (as of 2026)

• Family members 18+ require their own membership, but children under 18 can accompany a member for free

• Some premium credit cards and airline loyalty programs offer partial discounts

How It Works

• Sign up online or at the airport.

• Verify your identity and enroll biometric information (fingerprints + iris scan).

• At the airport, use the CLEAR kiosk to confirm your identity.

• A CLEAR ambassador escorts you to the security checkpoint, usually ahead of long lines.

Best For

• Frequent travelers who fly during peak hours

• Families traveling with children (skip long lines together)

• Anyone who wants the fastest possible way through airport security

✅ Tip: If you combine CLEAR + TSA PreCheck, you can often go from airport entrance to your gate in under 10 minutes at major U.S. airports.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Sign Up for CLEAR Membership

• Go to the CLEAR website or visit a CLEAR enrollment location at the airport.

• Membership costs $189/year (family plan available for $99/year per child).

• Provide basic personal info and email for account setup.

Step 2: Enroll Your Biometrics

• At enrollment, verify your identity with a government ID (passport, driver’s license, or green card).

• Scan your fingerprints and/or iris for biometric identification.

Step 3: Go to the CLEAR Kiosk at the Airport

• Upon arrival at the airport, go to the CLEAR lane.

• Use the kiosk to scan your fingerprints or eyes.

Step 4: Get Escorted Past the Security Line

• A CLEAR ambassador will escort you directly to the physical security screening area.

• If you have TSA PreCheck, you can combine CLEAR + PreCheck for fastest possible access.

Tips for Smooth Usage

• Check if your credit card offers CLEAR discounts or free membership.

• Make sure your biometrics are enrolled and active before travel.

• CLEAR is valid only at participating airports and venues.

✅ Summary: CLEAR speeds up ID verification and line skipping at the airport, while TSA PreCheck handles the actual security screening. Combining both gives you the fastest airport experience in the U.S..

TSA PreCheck vs Global Entry vs CLEAR: Real-World Scenarios

✈️ Scenario 1: You Mostly Fly Within the U.S.

Best Choice: ✅ TSA PreCheck

• You fly domestic routes a few times a year.

• You want to keep shoes and laptops in your bag.

• You don’t travel internationally.

👉 Why it works: TSA PreCheck delivers the biggest improvement for domestic travel at the lowest long-term cost.

🌍 Scenario 2: You Travel Internationally (Even Once a Year)

Best Choice: 🏆 Global Entry

• You hate long U.S. immigration lines after long flights.

• You also fly domestic routes.

👉 Why it works: Global Entry speeds up U.S. re-entry and includes TSA PreCheck—making it the best overall value.

⏰ Scenario 3: You Fly During Peak Hours at Busy Airports

Best Choice: 🚀 CLEAR

• You often fly early mornings, evenings, or holidays.

• Security lines are unpredictable.

• You value speed over cost.

👉 Why it works: CLEAR lets you skip the ID check line, which is often the biggest bottleneck at busy airports.

⚡ Scenario 4: You Want the Fastest Airport Experience Possible

Best Choice: 🥇 CLEAR + TSA PreCheck

• You want minimal waiting from curb to gate.

• You fly frequently and value time.

👉 Why it works: CLEAR skips the ID line → TSA PreCheck speeds up screening → fastest combo available in U.S. airports.

👨‍👩‍👧 Scenario 5: You Travel with Family or Kids

Best Choice: 👨‍👩‍👧 TSA PreCheck or CLEAR

• Kids under 12 can use TSA PreCheck with you.

• CLEAR allows kids under 18 to go through with a parent.

👉 Tip: CLEAR is especially useful when traveling with kids during peak travel times.

💼 Scenario 6: Business Travelers & Consultants

Best Choice: 🏅 Global Entry + CLEAR

• Frequent domestic and international travel.

• Tight schedules.

• Missed flights are costly.

👉 Why it works: This combo minimizes both security and immigration delays, ideal for high-frequency flyers.

🎓 Scenario 7: Students & Budget-Conscious Travelers

Best Choice: 💰 Global Entry (with credit card reimbursement)

• Limited budget but frequent travel.

• Want maximum value.

👉 Why it works: Many travel credit cards reimburse the $100 fee, effectively making Global Entry free.

🧭 Quick Decision Guide

Your Travel Style	Best Program
Domestic only	TSA PreCheck
International travel	Global Entry
Busy airports	CLEAR
Speed above all	CLEAR + PreCheck
Best value	Global Entry

Credit Cards That Cover TSA PreCheck, Global Entry & CLEAR Fees

✈️ 1. Cards That Reimburse TSA PreCheck & Global Entry

Most travel rewards credit cards reimburse up to $120 toward your TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fee (usually once every four years) when you pay the fee with the card.

Popular options include:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve® – Premium travel card with statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck up to $120 every four years.

• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card – Up to $120 credit for either program, low annual fee.

• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card – Premium flat-rate travel card with the same reimbursement.

• American Express Platinum Card® – Offers up to $120 credit for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck (terms apply).

• Bank of America® Premium Rewards® – Up to $100 credit.

• United℠ Explorer Card – Up to $120 every four years (first year often no annual fee).

• IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card – Up to $120 credit, moderate annual fee.

• Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® – Up to $120 statement credit.

💡 Tip: For many cards, you must charge the application fee to the card and then the statement credit automatically posts within a billing cycle.

💥 2. Cards That Cover CLEAR Membership

CLEAR is a private program and fewer cards reimburse this fee, but some premium cards do offer credits toward CLEAR membership (typically up to around $189 annually).

Top cards for CLEAR benefits:

• American Express Platinum Card® – Offers an annual credit that can cover the full CLEAR Plus membership fee.

• The American Express® Green Card – Also provides a CLEAR credit (terms apply).

👉 Some airline cards (e.g., Delta or United cobrand cards) may offer discounted CLEAR rates (e.g., ~$169 instead of standard ~$189), though not a full reimbursement.

🧠 3. Extra Tips (Maximize Your Dollars)

• Timing matters: Most credit cards reimburse the Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit every four years, which is usually enough to cover renewed memberships before they expire.

• Annual fee vs. benefits: If you travel often, a higher-fee premium card might pay for itself with lounge access, travel credits, and these trusted traveler reimbursements.

• Plan ahead: Pay your PreCheck or Global Entry fee with the card offering the benefit when you submit the application, not after — otherwise the credit might not apply.

🧾 Quick Summary Table

🥈 Best for Frequent Domestic Flyers: TSA PreCheck

Why it’s great:

🔹 Lower cost than Global Entry

🔹 Shorter, faster security lines in most U.S. airports

🔹 Easy application process

💡 Best for: Frequent U.S. travelers who rarely leave the country

💰 Value score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

👉 TSA PreCheck is the ideal choice if you don’t exit/enter the U.S. often — it’s simple and consistently improves the airport experience.

🥉 Best for Skipping Lines Fastest: CLEAR

Why it’s worth considering:

🔹 Lets you skip the ID check line entirely

🔹 Works at busy airports and peak travel times

🔹 Can be paired with TSA PreCheck or Global Entry

💡 Best for: Travelers who fly frequently from major hubs or during holidays

💰 Value score: ⭐⭐⭐

👉 CLEAR is fantastic if your priority is maximum speed — especially when TSA PreCheck lanes get crowded. But its annual cost makes it less universally worth it unless you travel often.

🧠 Quick Picks Based on Your Travel Style

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Does Global Entry require an interview at the airport?

A: Yes, but as mentioned, "Enrollment on Arrival" is the most efficient way to get it done.

Q2: Can CLEAR replace TSA PreCheck?

A: No. CLEAR only verifies who you are. Without PreCheck, you still have to take off your shoes and remove your laptop once you reach the X-ray machine.

Q3: Are these programs available to non-US citizens?

A: TSA PreCheck and CLEAR are generally for US Citizens and Green Card holders. Global Entry is open to citizens of several countries (e.g., UK, Germany, South Korea, etc.)—check the CBP website for the latest list.

Q4: Can I have all three programs?

A: Yes, many frequent travelers use Global Entry + CLEAR.

Q5: Does Global Entry work for departures?

A: No, it’s for U.S. entry—but TSA PreCheck covers departures.

Q6: Do kids need their own?

A: Global Entry free for under 14; Clear free under 18; PreCheck allows 13+ to join parents if on the same booking.

Armed with this guide, pick your fast-pass based on needs and budget. Apply today, reclaim your time, and enjoy stress-free US airport travel!