You have probably noticed that some people are able to get through security faster than others and asked yourself "How can I do that" or "Did they just skip me".
So my question to you is, "You Waiting Forever or Nah"?
Travel is picking back up, and the long lines at the airport are proof that people are becoming more comfortable with traveling during the pandemic. Taking advantage of programs can significantly reduce the time spent navigating through security checkpoints to your gate, and re-entering the United States from your international vacation.
To be honest, I am the friend who will leave you in line and proceed to CLEAR, TSA PreCheck, AND Global Entry and wait for you at the gate, or baggage claim. If you are interested in expediting the process, these are the perks of each Transportation Security Administration Program.
TSA PreCheck (Transportation Security Administration Program) - Domestic Travel
Seriously, who wants to take their shoes off in a busy airport? Not Me! Random feet make me cringe. (Tip: Keep a pair of socks in your pocket)
With TSA PreCheck you DO NOT need to remove your shoes, laptops, liquids (less than 3.4 oz), belts, or light jackets.
There is a dedicated line that averages a 5 min wait time or less.
TSA PreCheck is available at more than 200 airports in the U.S. and on over 60 airlines that participate in the program.
Valid for 5 years.
How to Get TSA PreCheck
Fill out the online application
Pay the $85 application fee
Make an appointment for a 10 minute in person background check
If approved, TSA will provide a Known Travel Number (KTN)
Note: When purchasing plane tickets add the KTN number to the reservation to experience the benefits of TSA PreCheck.
Tip: Check your credit card benefits. Some Credit Cards offer a $100 credit toward TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.
Global Entry - International Travel
This program takes TSA PreCheck up a notch. Not only do you receive the benefits of TSA PreCheck, you also expedite the US re-entry process. It is essentially a 2 for 1 deal!
Global Entry is best for international travelers who are often stuck in the U.S. Customs and Border Protection lines.
The Program allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low risk travelers upon arrival in the United States.
Dedicated kiosks that scan passports, take a photo, and scan fingerprints to confirm their identity.
Valid for 5 Years
How to Get Global Entry
Fill out the online application
Schedule an Interview
Pay the $100 application fee
If approved, you will receive a Global Entry Card
Note: The Global Entry card is not needed to use the kiosk.
CLEAR - Domestic Travel
There are 3 major differences between CLEAR and its competitors above.
CLEAR is specifically dedicated to identification and documentation screen process while the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are for the physical screen process.
CLEAR is a private company and is not owned by the government.
CLEAR costs $175 per year while the other two are $85 and $100.
Perks of CLEAR
Dedicated Clear lane to expedite the airport security process, instead of waiting for TSA to verify your boarding pass and identity.
Retina Scan, Photo, or Fingerprints are used to verify your identity
Quickly verifies your identity at touchless, biometric security kiosks
Clear ambassador will escort you to the physical screening process. (TSA PreCheck, or the regular screening line.
How to Enroll
Fill out the application on www.clearme.com
Complete the retina scan and fingerprinting process in the CLEAR line at the airport. The process takes a total of 5 minutes.
Note: Clear does not include TSA PreCheck.
Tip: If you decided to move forward with this option, Global Entry or TSA PreCheck would be a great complement to make the process even quicker.
Now, what do I recommend?
Everything is not for everybody. These programs cater to different travelers. It depends on how often you travel AND if you are a Domestic or International Traveler
Frequent Domestic Travelers: TSA PreCheck
Frequent International Travelers: Global Entry
Frequent Domestic Traveler with a busy home airport: CLEAR and TSA Preheck
Me? I have all three and find them all beneficial for my travel lifestyle.
Thanks for reading and I hope this helps.
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