How to choose the best airport security “pre-check” program for you

Airport security lines are very long, the process is slow and it is often difficult to understand what you need to do to get through quickly. However, there are several different programs that make the process easier, such as TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, and CLEAR. Although these programs have many similarities, they also have some important differences. Here’s what you need to know about each and how to decide which one is right for you.

What is TSA Precheck?

TSA PreCheck is a program that helps low-risk travelers get through the security process faster and easier. Start by applying online and paying the $85 application fee (many credit cards refund this fee). You will be required to undergo a short interview at the TSA PreCheck Registration Center. Once approved, you will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that you can use when booking flights. Once at the airport, you can use the PreCheck line, which is shorter and faster than the regular security line. A TSA PreCheck is valid for up to 5 years.

TSA PreCheck is ideal for those who fly regularly but don’t travel internationally often.

What is Global Entry?

Global Entry is a program that expedites customs clearance for low-risk travelers entering the United States. This is a huge time saver if you travel internationally often. The application process is similar to TSA PreCheck. You must complete an online application and pay a $100 application fee (many credit cards refund this fee). After receiving conditional approval, you will need to go to a Global Entry office for an interview and complete your application (many offices are located at airports). Once approved, a Known Traveler Number (KTN) will be issued. This number can be used when booking flights. Once you arrive in the US, you will be able to use the Global Entry Line at Customs. This is usually shorter and faster than normal lines. Global Entry members also have full access to the TSA PreCheck line. Global Entry is valid for up to 5 years.

Global Entry is for you if you travel internationally a lot and usually by air.

What is Nexus?

NEXUS is a program that enables low-risk travelers to expedite security and customs clearance when entering Canada and the United States. This is a huge time saver if you travel to both countries frequently. The application process is similar to TSA PreCheck and Global Entry. You must complete an online application, pay a $50 application fee (this fee is refundable with some credit cards), and attend an interview. Once approved, you will be issued a NEXUS card that can be used to enter both countries. You can use her NEXUS line for security and customs when you arrive in either country. This is usually shorter and faster than regular lines. NEXUS members also have full access to her TSA PreCheck line in the US and can use the Global Entry kiosks when returning to the US. NEXUS is valid for up to 5 years.

NEXUS is for you if you travel frequently internationally and occasionally travel overland to Canada or Mexico, or if you live near a NEXUS application center (mainly border states) and want to save $50 over Global Entry. I’m here.

What is Clear?

CLEAR is a program that enables low-risk travelers to expedite the security process upon entering the airport. This is a huge time saver if you fly frequently. You must complete an online application and pay an annual fee of $189 (this fee is refundable with some credit cards). Once approved, he must complete his CLEAR setup at the airport. When you arrive at the airport, you can use the CLEAR line at security. They are usually shorter and faster than normal lines. CLEAR often includes both TSA PreCheck and non-TSA PreCheck sections, so using both may provide additional benefits.

CLEAR is ideal for frequent flyers who do not travel internationally or overland to Canada or Mexico, or as an addition to a TSA PreCheck, Global Entry or NEXUS membership.