How to Choose the Best Airport Security ‘Pre-Check’ Program for You

Airport security lines are notoriously long, the process is slow, and it’s often difficult to figure out what you need to do in order to get through quickly. There are a few different programs that can help make the process easier, though: TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, and CLEAR. These programs have a lot of similarities but also a few key differences. Here’s what you need to know about each one and how to decide which one is right for you.

What is TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck is a program that allows low-risk travelers to go through a faster, easier security process. You start by applying online and paying a $78 application fee that is good for five years (the fee can change, many credit cards will reimburse this fee). You’ll have to go to for a short interview at a TSA PreCheck enrollment center; once you’re approved, you’ll get a Known Traveler Number (KTN) which you can use when booking flights. When you get to the airport, you’ll be able to use the PreCheck line, which is usually shorter and faster than the regular security line. Once you have your ID checked, you also get to make a shorter and faster line to get your bags and body checked. Additionally, you get to pass through a traditional metal detector rather the invasive full body scanner. The best part is that you are not required to take your shoes, belts, or jackets off, and liquids and laptops can stay in your bag during screening. Kids and teens can also join their parents in the PreCheck line.

TSA PreCheck is the best option for most people given its low fee and convenience of time saving at the security screening. There are no benefits for international travel, though.

What is Global Entry?

Global Entry is a program that allows low-risk travelers to expedite the customs process when entering the United States. If you’re a frequent international traveler, this can be a great time-saver. The application process is similar to TSA PreCheck—you’ll need to fill out an online application and pay the $100 application fee (many credit cards will reimburse this fee). You’ll receive a conditional approval and then need to go to a Global Entry office to finish your application with an interview (many office locations are at the airport). Once you’re approved, you’ll get a Known Traveler Number (KTN), which you can use when booking flights. When you arrive in the United States, you’ll be able to use the Global Entry line at customs, which is usually shorter and faster than the regular line. Global Entry members also have full access to TSA PreCheck lines. Global Entry is valid for up to five years.

Global Entry is right for you if you travel internationally often and usually travel by air.

What is NEXUS?

NEXUS is a program that allows low-risk travelers to expedite the security and customs process when entering Canada and the United States. If you’re a frequent traveler to both countries, this can be a great time-saver. The application process is similar to TSA PreCheck and Global Entry—you’ll need to fill out an online application and pay the $50 application fee (a few credit cards will reimburse this fee) and then go in for an interview. Once you’re approved, you’ll get a NEXUS card, which you can use when entering both countries. When you arrive in either country, you’ll be able to use the NEXUS line at security and customs, which is usually shorter and faster than the regular line. NEXUS members also have full access to TSA PreCheck lines in the United States and can use the Global Entry kiosks when flying back into the U.S. NEXUS is valid for up to five years.

NEXUS is right for you if you travel internationally often and sometimes travel overland to Canada or Mexico, or if you live close to a NEXUS application center (mostly in border states) and prefer to save the $50 compared to Global Entry.

What is CLEAR?

CLEAR’s flagship program, CLEAR Plus, allows low-risk travelers to expedite the ID checking process when entering airports and sport stadiums. You’ll need to fill out an online application and pay a $189 annual fee (a few credit cards will reimburse this fee). Once you’re approved, you’ll need to finish your CLEAR setup at the airport. When you arrive at the airport, you’ll be able to use the CLEAR line instead of the TSA or PreCheck line, and check yourself in with a self-service kiosk that uses biometric data (fingerprints and eye scans) to verify your ID and boarding pass. Once this is done, you’ll be escorted to the back of the security line where your bags are checked and your body is scanned.

However, a recent change due to an undisclosed security incident in 2022 is making TSA increase the number of random checks where CLEAR members have to show ID with a TSA agent, increasing wait times on the CLEAR section that has been getting longer from increasing members (10% of travelers in the participating 52 airports are part of the program). And, according to One Mile at a Time, a TSA spokesperson claims that all Registered Traveler participants will soon need to present IDs to TSA agents. The most appealing aspect of CLEAR has historically been skipping the line where you have your ID checked by a TSA agent, probably the most time-consuming process. While you will still be able to skip the ID line, waiting times will get longer, especially compared to PreCheck, due to members being verified twice. CLEAR, unlike TSA PreCheck, does not give you any benefits once you pass the ID checking portion and get to the security screening. In other words, you’ll still have to take off your shoes, belts, liquids, laptops and jackets during screening.

CLEAR is right for you if you fly frequently but don’t often travel internationally or over land to Canada or Mexico. It is best used if you already have TSA PreCheck since you are able to benefit from both (if you’re willing to pay the hefty annual fee). You can also use it with Global Entry or NEXUS membership.

This post was originally published in August 2022, and was updated by Daniel Oropeza on July 17, 2023 to include TSA PreCheck benefits and updates on pricing and the changes to CLEAR’s policy.