How to Choose the Best Airport Security Pre-Screening Program for You
Airport security lines are notoriously long, the process is slow, and it’s often hard to know what to do to get through quickly. However, there are several different programs that can help make this process easier: TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, and CLEAR. These programs have a lot in common, but also a few key differences. Here’s what you need to know about each and how to decide which one is right for you.
What is TSA Pre-Validation?
TSA PreCheck is a program that allows low-risk travelers to go through a faster and easier security screening process. You start by submitting an online application and paying the $85 application fee (many credit cards refund this fee). You will need to complete a short interview at the TSA PreCheck Registration Center; Once you are approved, you will receive a Traveler Known Number (KTN) that you can use when booking flights. When you get to the airport, you can use the PreCheck queue, which is usually shorter and faster than the regular security screening queue. The TSA Pre-Inspection is valid for up to five years.
TSA PreCheck is for you if you are an occasional flyer but don’t travel the world often.
What is a global login?
Global Entry is a program that allows low-risk travelers to expedite the customs process when entering the United States. If you travel the world frequently, this can be a great time saver. The application process is similar to TSA PreCheck – you need to fill out an online application and pay a $100 application fee (many credit cards refund this fee). You will receive a conditional approval and then you will need to go to the Global Entry office to complete your interview application (many offices are located at the airport). Once approved, you will receive a Traveler Known Number (KTN) that you can use when booking flights. Upon arrival in the United States, you will be able to use the general customs queue, which is usually shorter and faster than the regular queue. Global Entry members also have full access to the TSA pre-screening lines. Global Entry is valid for up to five years.
Global Entry is for you if you travel the world frequently and usually travel by air.
What is NEXUS?
NEXUS is a program that allows low-risk travelers to expedite customs and customs clearance when entering Canada and the United States. If you frequently travel to both countries, this can be a great time saver. The application process is similar to TSA PreCheck and Global Entry – you need to complete an online application and pay a $50 application fee (several credit cards will refund this fee) and then pass an interview. Once approved, you will receive a NEXUS card that you can use to enter both countries. When you arrive in any country, you can 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 they return to the US. NEXUS is valid for up to five years.
NEXUS is right for you if you travel the world frequently and occasionally travel overland to Canada or Mexico, or if you live near a NEXUS claim center (mostly in border states) and would rather save $50 over Global Entry.
What is CLEAR?
CLEAR is a program that allows low-risk travelers to expedite the security screening process when entering airports. If you fly frequently, this can be a great time saver. You will need to complete an online application and pay an annual fee of $189 (some credit cards will refund this fee). Once approved, you will need to complete the CLEAR setup at the airport. When you arrive at the airport, you can use the CLEAR line at security, which is usually shorter and faster than the regular line. CLEAR often has a TSA PreCheck section and a non-TSA PreCheck section, so you can get even more benefits by having both sections.
CLEAR is right for you if you are a frequent flyer but infrequent traveler around the world or overland to Canada or Mexico, or as an addition to your TSA PreCheck, Global Entry or NEXUS membership.