TSA PreCheck® vs. Global Entry vs. CLEAR

Whether you’re traveling domestic or going overseas, long lines at airport security can be frustrating. Especially when you’re in a rush and stuck waiting in line. Thankfully, there are programs available to help expedite security screening and get you on your way.

What you’ll learn:

• TSA PreCheck® gives you access to a separate security line where you don’t have to remove your shoes, belt or light jacket. You can also keep your laptop and small liquids in your luggage.

• Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck® and expedites entry back into the United States.

• CLEAR Plus is a membership offered by CLEAR, a private company that uses biometrics to expedite ID checks before security.

• Venture and Venture X cardholders are eligible for statement credits to cover the cost of a TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry application fee.*

TSA PreCheck®, Global Entry and CLEAR all involve expedited security processes. And there’s some overlap between how the programs work and how you could access them. Read more about each to better understand the differences.

Like the abbreviation indicates, TSA PreCheck® is run by the Transportation Security Administration and offers expedited security screening to low-risk travelers at around 200 airports across the country. TSA PreCheck® can cost up to $85, and membership lasts five years.

After you submit an application, an in-person appointment at an enrollment center is required. If approved, you’ll receive a Known Traveler Number. When you use a KTN while booking a flight with a participating airline, your boarding pass will include that information and grant you access to the expedited TSA PreCheck® line.

Once in line, travelers aren’t required to remove their:

• Belt

• Shoes

• Light jacket

• Laptop

• Approved small liquids

Global Entry is run by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and lets eligible travelers skip customs lines in the U.S. after traveling internationally. Rather than wait in line to speak with a customs agent, Global Entry travelers can use an automated kiosk to submit their passports and declare any goods.

Applying for Global Entry requires a $120 nonrefundable fee. Memberships are good for five years. But keep in mind that membership requires an online application, a background check and an in-person interview that needs to be scheduled in advance.

TSA PreCheck® and its benefits are automatically included with Global Entry. TSA says to consider Global Entry if you “travel internationally four or more times a year.”

CLEAR Plus is run by a private program that partners with the Department of Homeland Security. This program uses biometrics to offer quick entry at over 50 airports in the U.S.

CLEAR Plus members can skip the line for the boarding pass and ID check. They go through a separate security lane rather than wait in line for a TSA agent to check their passport or ID. Members verify their identification at a kiosk then typically head to the front of the regular security line—but not the TSA PreCheck® line. So CLEAR members may still have to remove things like their shoes.

The cost is $199 per year. Special pricing may be available if you choose to bundle your membership with TSA PreCheck®.

CLEAR Plus is also available at stadiums across the U.S. to expedite entry. That includes certain events at Capital One Arena via the entrance at 7th and G Streets at Gallery Place.

There are several things to consider when deciding which program is best for you.

• Think about how often you travel. 

• Consider whether your trips are mostly domestic or international.

• Check to see if the airports you frequent participate in any of these programs.

​​​​To help offset the cost, you might consider applying for a Venture or Venture X travel rewards card. You’ll be eligible for up to a $120 statement credit on one application fee for TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry once every four years.* Plus you’ll earn unlimited miles on every purchase and enjoy exclusive travel perks.

Still have questions? These answers may help.

Each program offers different benefits for different types of travelers. Be sure to think about things like where you travel the most, which part of the airport check-in process you want to expedite the most and cost. 

And remember, Capital One Venture X and Venture cardholders qualify for a statement credit for TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry.*