TSA Pre-Check vs CLEAR: Which is the Better Way to Get Through Security? 

To expedite the security process when traveling domestically, there are two options: TSA PreCheck and CLEAR. TSA PreCheck is a government-provided program that allows eligible travelers to enjoy expedited screening benefits, while CLEAR is a privately-owned company that offers a similar service at a higher price. Both programs aim to enhance the airport security experience and save you time. To help you decide which is right for you, we put the two to the test in a TSA Pre-Check vs CLEAR security comparison.

How do TSA PreCheck and CLEAR Compare?

TSA PreCheck and CLEAR both have the same goal of getting you through security faster, but they have some fundamental differences. TSA PreCheck focuses on enhancing the security screening process, providing benefits such as keeping your shoes and belts on and leaving liquids and electronics in your bag. On the other hand, CLEAR offers a separate service to bypass the ID verification process, complementing TSA PreCheck for an even smoother experience. Let us tell you about both of them in more detail:

What is TSA PreCheck?

TSA Precheck is a program designed to expedite the airport security process for low-risk travelers across the United States. If you are approved as a prechecked traveler, you will receive a special mark on your boarding pass, allowing you to use the dedicated TSA Precheck screening lanes.

In these lanes, you are not required to remove your shoes, belts, or laptops from bags, which helps to speed up the line. According to TSA Precheck’s December 2022 report, 91% of prechecked travelers were able to pass through security lines within five minutes, resulting in significant time savings. To be eligible for TSA Precheck, you must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or permanent resident.

For more information, read our full TSA Pre-Check review. 

What is CLEAR?

CLEAR is a membership service available at selected airports that offers a faster identity verification process. Instead of presenting your driver’s license or passport to a TSA agent for document verification, CLEAR uses biometric technology to verify your identity through your eyes or fingerprints at a kiosk. This allows you to bypass the documents verification line and proceed directly to the security screening area, saving you time and hassle.

Get the complete breakdown with our CLEAR review. 

TSA PreCheck vs. CLEAR: Features

The objective of TSA Precheck and CLEAR Plus membership is to simplify airport security, but there are variations in the cost and the way they operate.

New User Registration

Signing up for TSA PreCheck requires an online application followed by an in-person appointment at an enrollment center. The online application involves providing personal information, undergoing a background check, and paying the application fee. Once the application is approved, an appointment is scheduled for an in-person interview, where you will provide additional documentation and have your fingerprints taken. The entire process can take several weeks to complete.

On the other hand, CLEAR offers a more streamlined registration process. You can sign up for CLEAR online or in person at the airport in under 10 minutes. The registration involves providing personal information, verifying your identity, and creating a biometric profile by scanning your fingerprints and/or iris. 

Winner: CLEAR 

Processing Time

CLEAR offers a swift and easy registration process with minimal wait times. Signing up for CLEAR can typically be done online or in person at the airport in under 10 minutes. Once registered, you can start using the service immediately, bypassing the ID check at participating airports. The convenience and efficiency of CLEAR make it a desirable option for travelers looking to expedite their security experience.

On the other hand, TSA PreCheck requires a longer processing time compared to CLEAR. After submitting an online application, applicants must schedule an in-person appointment at a designated enrollment center for an interview and background check. The processing time for TSA PreCheck can take several weeks or even months before approval is granted. While the wait may be longer, the benefits of expedited security screenings with TSA PreCheck make it worth considering for frequent travelers.

Winner: CLEAR 

Security Lines

TSA PreCheck operates at over 200 airports across the United States, providing eligible travelers with dedicated screening lanes. While the popularity of TSA PreCheck has resulted in increased usage, it still offers the advantage of having more locations, increasing the likelihood of finding a PreCheck lane. However, due to the larger number of users, there may be some congestion in the PreCheck lines.

In contrast, CLEAR operates at a limited number of airports, offering a more exclusive experience. With fewer users, CLEAR lines generally move faster, providing a quicker security screening process. While the availability of CLEAR may be limited to certain airports, those who have access to it can enjoy expedited lines and reduced wait times.

Winner: CLEAR 

Security Process

TSA PreCheck provides eligible travelers with expedited security screening, offering the convenience of keeping your shoes, belts, and light jackets on during the process. Additionally, you can leave your liquids and electronics in your carry-on bag, saving time and reducing the need for extra handling.

In contrast, CLEAR focuses on the initial ID verification step rather than the entire security screening process. While CLEAR allows you to skip the ID check lines, you are still required to comply with the standard guidelines for removing shoes, belts, and liquids. Therefore, you will need to follow the same procedures as non-CLEAR passengers during the physical security screening.

Winner: TSA Pre-Check 

TSA Pre-Check vs CLEAR Pricing and Plans 

User Reviews

Both TSA PreCheck and CLEAR have received positive reviews from users, highlighting their respective benefits and enhancing the travel experience. In third-party reviews, TSA PreCheck is often praised for its convenience and time-saving advantages. Users appreciate the dedicated PreCheck lanes, which help expedite the security screening process and reduce wait times. Many frequent travelers commend the program for allowing them to keep their shoes and belts on, as well as leaving liquids and electronics in their bags. However, some users have noted that the PreCheck lines can still become congested during peak travel periods.

CLEAR, on the other hand, is often applauded for its efficiency and seamless identity verification process. Users appreciate the ability to bypass the initial ID check lines at participating airports, which can significantly reduce wait times. The biometric-based system of CLEAR, such as fingerprint or iris scans, adds an extra layer of convenience and security. However, the limited availability of CLEAR at certain airports is raised as a drawback by some travelers.

Our Expert Opinion: TSA PreCheck vs CLEAR

Based on our opinion, Although both TSA PreCheck and Clear offer separate lines to reduce waiting times (with Clear providing additional benefits for sports and music events), TSA PreCheck is available at more locations, has a lower cost, and allows you to bypass the hassle of removing your shoes, belt, and laptop in front of a TSA officer who may be tired of repeating instructions. If you are still confused, evaluating your travel habits and the airports you frequently use will help you determine which program aligns better with your needs.

TSA PreCheck Is Best For:

• Budget-conscious travelers who want a more versatile membership as there are far more TSA Pre-Check locations than CLEAR.  
• Travelers who frequently travel domestically and to various destinations. 
• Travelers who don’t want the hassle of taking liquids and electronics out of their carry-on bags and the annoyance of taking off their shoes and belts.  
• Families with young children who want to streamline the process of traveling with their little ones.

CLEAR Is Best For:

• Travelers flying from airports where CLEAR is available and want to skip the ID verification process.
• Individuals who prioritize speed and want to minimize time spent in security lines.
• Travelers who frequently visit airports with long security wait times.
• Those who value a more exclusive and efficient travel experience.
• Business travelers who frequently need to navigate tight schedules and want to reduce time spent at the airport.

Bottom Line: TSA Pre-Check vs CLEAR

TSA PreCheck has effectively reduced security wait times for numerous passengers who either enrolled in the program or were occasionally granted access to the expedited lanes, making it an excellent option for frequent travelers to streamline their airport experience.

On the other hand, Clear further minimizes wait times by automating the identity verification process and swiftly guiding travelers to the front of security lines. However, it’s important to note that having Clear does not automatically grant TSA PreCheck status like Global Entry typically does. Additionally, Clear is available at a significantly smaller number of airports compared to TSA PreCheck.

While it may not be necessary for every traveler to enroll in both TSA PreCheck and Clear, those who frequently spend time in airports with Clear services can benefit from skipping the ID line and potentially accessing PreCheck screening lanes without the inconvenience of removing clothing or items from bags.

To mitigate the cost, some credit cards offer reimbursement for TSA PreCheck (or Global Entry) application fees and Clear membership fees (such as the Amex Platinum Card). Additionally, joining a frequent flyer program can significantly reduce Clear membership fees.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)