If you travel regularly, navigating security lines and customs can feel like a chore—but it doesn’t have to be that way. This airport trusted traveler programs guide unpacks three leading options in the U.S.: TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and CLEAR. Each one offers a faster, more convenient airport experience, but choosing the right one depends on how, where and how often you fly.
What Each Program Does
- TSA PreCheck gives you access to expedited security screening at U.S. airports when departing on domestic and select international flights.
- Global Entry is designed for international travelers re-entering the U.S. It includes customs fast-track and also grants you TSA PreCheck benefits.
- CLEAR uses biometric scanning (fingerprints or iris) to verify your identity at participating airports, allowing you to skip part of the ID check process and go straight to screening.
Comparison at a Glance
| Feature | TSA PreCheck | Global Entry | CLEAR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Frequent domestic travelers | International travelers returning to the U.S. | Travelers who want to skip the ID line entirely |
| Main Benefit | Shorter security lines, simplified screening | Fast customs re-entry plus TSA PreCheck | Biometric identity check, faster airport entry |
| Includes TSA PreCheck? | Yes | Yes | No (can be combined) |
| Coverage | 200+ U.S. airports | 75+ international airports for re-entry | 50+ U.S. airports and stadiums |
| Application Fee | $76.75 | $120 | $209 per year |
| Membership Duration | 5 years | 5 years | 1 year |
| Enrollment Process | Online application and in-person appointment | Online application, interview, and background check | In-person enrollment with biometric scan |
| Speed Gain | 5–10 minutes saved per security check | Up to 30 minutes saved at customs + TSA PreCheck | Skip the ID check, pair with PreCheck for faster screening |
The Real Traveler Experience
While these programs sound straightforward, the real experience can vary depending on timing, airport, and staffing. Some travelers report that TSA PreCheck approvals arrive within days, while Global Entry can take months—mainly due to interview backlogs.
Others notice that at smaller airports, PreCheck lines are often so short that CLEAR doesn’t offer much of an advantage. In fact, a few frequent flyers say the CLEAR line can sometimes move slower than PreCheck during peak hours.
That said, when both systems work smoothly, CLEAR and PreCheck together can feel effortless. You skip the ID line, breeze through screening, and board your flight with time to spare.
A common pitfall to watch for: if your name or birthdate doesn’t exactly match across your airline profile, TSA account, and Known Traveler Number, your PreCheck status may not show up on your boarding pass. Double-check your details to avoid surprises at check-in.
When One Program Makes More Sense
Choosing among these programs becomes easier when you tie the decision to your travel pattern.
- If you fly domestically most of the time, choose TSA PreCheck.
- If you take international trips, Global Entry is more comprehensive and cost-effective in the long run.
- If your home airport has CLEAR and you often endure long wait times at security, adding CLEAR on top of TSA PreCheck or Global Entry may make sense.
Tips to Maximize Value
- Link your Known Traveler Number (KTN) or membership ID to your frequent-flyer and airline profiles so you get the benefit automatically when booking.
- Use travel-rewards credit cards: many reimburse the enrollment fee for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.
- Compare your home airport’s lines. At some airports, the PreCheck lane is so fast that adding CLEAR gives marginal improvement.
- Don’t wait for your appointment. For Global Entry especially, interview slots may fill up months in advance—book early.
- Remember: None of these programs guarantee no screening or instant passage. Random checks and extra screening still happen.
Final Thoughts
This airport trusted traveler programs guide gives you the framework to choose wisely. Whether you’re trimming minutes at security or avoiding the customs line after a long haul, the right membership can make a tangible difference to your travel experience. With a little planning and the right program, you’ll spend less time waiting and more time exploring.