TSA Pre√ – Global Entry – CLEAR
Ever wanted to get through airport security faster? There are 3 programs which claim to do just that. Each has their own advantages and disadvantages. Majority of the time, your time through airport security will be shortened. There have been some exceptions.
TSA (Transportation Safety Administration) Pre√
TSA Pre√, run by the Transportation Safety Administration, is the most popular service of the 3. Millions of people take advantage of TSA Pre√ at 200+ airports. There are security lines just for TSA Pre√. With TSA Pre√ you can go through the security process without removing your shoes, your 3-1-1 liquids, without taking out your laptop or removing your light jacket. It is available at 200+ airports within the United States. You are still required to show your identification (valid travel documents).
Enrolling in TSA Pre√ requires you to pre-register online. During pre-registration, you must make an appointment for an in-person 10-minute interview. During the interview, present the appropriate identification and consent to fingerprinting. There is an $85 non-refundable fee. The fee is to cover the cost of a background check. TSA Pre√ is valid for 5 years. Children 12 and under traveling within your group may go through TSA Pre√ with you. Children 13 and older that are not enrolled must go through the regular security line.
If you are considered a “low risk” you should receive a letter within 2 weeks of your interview with your KTN (Known Traveler Number). You may also check their website to check the status of your application.
It is important to note that TSA Pre√ may be revoked due to any violations made by the traveler. Once removed, re-apply is not an option.
Global Entry
United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program operates like TSA Pre√. The difference is that Global Entry can be used in participating countries around the world.
The enrollment process is very similar. However, depending on your travel destinations, Global Entry may require more work for you. You are required to meet CBP in person each time you obtain a new visa, obtain a work visa or your visa is updated.
When traveling internationally, proceed to a Global Entry kiosk, present your machine-readable passport or US permanent resident card, place your fingerprints on the scanner and complete a customs declaration. A transaction receipt will be issued then directs travelers to baggage claim and the exit. Global Entry member must still be selected for further examination when entering the US.
The $100 fee is also non-refundable. Just like TSA Pre√, any violations of the program will result in the appropriate enforcement action AND termination Global Entry membership. Once terminated, you can never re-apply.
CLEAR
CLEAR is not run by any government organization. They are Safety Act Certified by the Department of Homeland Security.
CLEAR is only available in 60+ locations (airports, Hertz Fast Lane and some sports arenas) throughout the country. It uses biometrics (eyes, fingerprinting and sometimes facial recognition) instead of photo IDs to get you through airport security. CLEAR with TSA Pre√ may move you must faster through the lines. Biometrics can read your iris and fingerprints faster than the TSA agent manually checking your identification.
The enrollment process requires more security checks. You must first signup online. Enroll using a US driver’s license, US Passport, US Passport Card, US-issued permanent resident card, state issued ID US military ID or Global Entry Card. Note that the ID must be valid, not expired and have a photo. Enrollment uses LexisNexis. Clearance will not be awarded to travelers that fail the quiz. You are given 2 opportunities to pass. Once passed, go to an enrollment center to register your eyes and fingerprints. Once this is complete, use may use CLEAR immediately.
CLEAR offers exclusive discounts with their partner companies. One year membership is $179. Delta SkyMiles members can enroll for $99. Up to 3 additional adults may be enrolled under your membership for $50 each per year. Children under 18 are eligible to go through the CLEAR lane for free when accompanied by a CLEAR family member.
Links for these programs may be found on Define Your Travel’s Travel Resources page.
