TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry vs. CLEAR: Which is better?

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If there’s one thing everyone can agree on about flying, it’s that nobody likes a long security line at the airport. Thankfully, you have a few options for paying a little extra to skip the crowds.

Statement credits for CLEAR®, Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees have become a standard benefit of many travel rewards cards, and are available as bundles as well.

Below, CNBC Select reviews the difference between each travel perk — TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and CLEAR — and how your credit card could help you save on membership fees.

If you rarely travel abroad and don’t want to pay for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck is $78 for a five-year membership and gives you expedited security checks at more than 200 select airports in the U.S. If you don’t have a U.S. passport, this is probably your best option.

For anyone who has experienced TSA PreCheck, the process is less invasive than the standard security screenings. You don’t have to remove your shoes, belt, light jacket, laptop or TSA-approved liquids.

To apply, you have to submit an online application and then schedule a 10-minute in-person appointment at one of the many enrollment centers. The appointment includes a background check and fingerprinting.

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the U.S. after traveling internationally. It basically means getting in the express line at customs and immigration, which can save you time and a potential headache after a long trip.

To apply, you must submit an application, pay a non-refundable $100 fee ($120 starting Oct. 1, 2024) and complete an in-person interview. If approved, your five-year membership includes both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck in the U.S.

To qualify for Global Entry, you must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. lawful permanent resident. Residents of select countries can also qualify, and you can learn more about international application requirements. Applicants under 18 must have a parent or legal guardian’s consent to participate in Global Entry. Learn more about eligibility for Global Entry, and be sure to check out CNBC Select’s how to apply for Global Entry.

Here’s a sampling of some popular travel credit cards that offer statement credits for the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fees. Though each of these cards has an annual fee, this travel perk can help offset it — not to mention all the additional rewards you can earn using these cards regularly.

Global Entry and TSA PreCheck credits are worth up to $120 or $78, respectively, and they are typically offered every four or five years, depending on which card you have. You receive the statement credit after you submit and pay for an application, and it can take a few weeks to see the cost credited to your account.

CLEAR® is a newer addition to accelerating airport security screenings. CLEAR uses your eyes and fingertips rather than traditional IDs to verify your identity when you travel. The most expensive program of the three, CLEAR costs $199 for an annual membership that does not include TSA PreCheck. However, you can also enroll in a CLEAR Plus membership bundled with TSA PreCheck.

For new CLEAR Plus members, you only have to pay $199.95 for the bundle the first year ($77.95 for your TSA PreCheck application and a discounted $122 CLEAR Plus membership). After the first year, your CLEAR Plus membership automatically renews at $199 annually.

If you’re renewing your TSA PreCheck membership and you don’t have a CLEAR Plus membership, you’d only have to pay $190.95 ($68.95 for a 5-year online renewal of TSA PreCheck membership, and $122 for your first year of CLEAR Plus). However, this deal only applies to online renewals — if you renew in person, you have to pay $199.95.

With CLEAR, you can add up to three adult family members for only $99 per year each. Kids under 18 are free and don’t need to enroll. Delta SkyMiles and United MileagePlus members with status can often receive CLEAR discounts. CLEAR also offers discounts for military service members and government employees.

To apply, you sign up online and complete an in-person biometric scan. Once you are approved to use CLEAR, your experience going through security at the airport is pretty seamless. You report directly to a CLEAR kiosk and scan your fingerprints or eyes. A representative then escorts you to a security checkpoint.

For sports and music fans, the membership also grants you CLEAR Sports, which allows you to skip the security line when attending many major stadiums and entertainment venues throughout the country, including Staples Center and Madison Square Garden.

Additionally, with the American Express® Green Card, you can receive up to $199 in statement credits per calendar year toward a membership. Terms apply.

This credit can help offset the Green Card’s $150 annual fee (see rates and fees) while you get to enjoy a discounted CLEAR® Plus membership. American Express® Green Card cardholders also earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on eligible travel, transit and at restaurants worldwide and 1X Membership Rewards® points on all other purchases.

At CNBC Select, our mission is to provide our readers with high-quality service journalism and comprehensive consumer advice so they can make informed decisions with their money. Every travel guide is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of travel products. While CNBC Select earns a commission from affiliate partners on many offers and links, we create all our content without input from our commercial team or any outside third parties, and we pride ourselves on our journalistic standards and ethics.

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Information about the American Express® Green Card has been collected independently by CNBC Select and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of the card prior to publication.

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