If you fly into or around the United States, three programs can save you time at the airport. They solve different problems, and the right pick depends on whether you fly internationally, domestically, or both.
TSA PreCheck — faster domestic security
What it is: a U.S. government program giving you a dedicated, lighter security lane at U.S. airports — you keep your shoes, belt and light jacket on, and laptops stay in the bag.
Cost: roughly $76.75–$85 for five years, depending on which approved enrolment provider you use. Best for: anyone flying domestically within the U.S.
How to apply: apply online, then visit an enrolment centre for a short appointment (fingerprints and a photo). Most approvals arrive in a few days, though some take longer.
Global Entry — faster arrival from abroad (includes PreCheck)
What it is: a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program for pre-approved travellers that speeds up immigration and customs when you arrive in the U.S. from another country. Importantly, Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck at no extra cost.
Cost: $120 for five years. Best for: anyone who flies internationally even once or twice a year — it covers both arrival and domestic security, so it's usually better value than PreCheck alone.
How to apply: apply through the official Trusted Traveler Program site, pass a background check, then attend an in-person interview. Approval can take from a couple of weeks to several months, so apply early.
CLEAR Plus — skip the ID line
What it is: a private service (not a government program) that verifies your identity with your eyes or fingerprints, letting you skip to the front of the ID-check line. It doesn't replace screening — many travellers pair it with PreCheck.
Cost: about $209 per year. Best for: frequent flyers at busy airports who want to skip the first queue and don't mind a yearly fee.
Which should you choose?
- Fly internationally at all? Get Global Entry — it includes PreCheck and costs only a little more.
- Only fly domestically? TSA PreCheck is enough.
- Fly very often through busy hubs? Add CLEAR on top for the fastest path.
One more tip: many premium travel credit cards reimburse the Global Entry or PreCheck fee, which can make enrolment effectively free. There's also a free option — the Mobile Passport Control app — that can speed up arrival if you'd rather not pay for Global Entry.
Travelling to the U.S. soon and want this handled for you — from the right program to flights and hotels? Our travel concierge can take care of it.
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