Skip Long Airport Security Lines By Signing Up For TSA PreCheck's Latest Provider
Since 2013, TSA PreCheck has made airport security screening faster for travelers. Among the perks, individuals with TSA PreCheck can keep their shoes and laptops in their carry-ons. The program is also an easy way to get any questions you have for TSA answered. Although there are cons associated with TSA PreCheck, according to a March 2024 press release, 99% of travelers in the program only have to wait 10 minutes or less in security. That said, TSA PreCheck can cost anywhere from $78 to $85 for 5 years. To apply, travelers must visit an enrollment location provided by cyber security companies IDEMIA or Telos.
But there's exciting news for travelers! Beginning on April 30, they can sign up or renew for TSA PreCheck with CLEAR. In a press release by TSA via PR Newswire, Caryn Seidman-Becker, CEO of CLEAR, stated, "TSA PreCheck with enrollment by CLEAR provides a fast and efficient airport experience." She added, "This is a win-win for U.S. travelers who will have access to more enrollment locations, expanded hours and other benefits."
CLEAR, founded in 2010, uses biometric data instead of a physical form of ID at a TSA checkpoint. At the airport, travelers who use CLEAR will find white and blue kiosks that scan their fingerprints and eyes to confirm their identity. A CLEAR representative then accompanies individuals to security. It eliminates the need to wait in line and, combined with TSA PreCheck, could significantly speed up security screening.
The CLEAR and TSA PreCheck partnership
Per the TSA's press release, travelers can currently sign up for TSA PreCheck with CLEAR at three in-person enrollment locations: Orlando International Airport (MCO), Sacramento International Airport (SMF), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). However, the available enrollment locations will expand in the future. You can also start your application online.
Travelers can sign up for TSA PreCheck through CLEAR for $77.95 for 5 years. This price drops down to $68.95 for renewals. You can also select a CLEAR Plus and TSA PreCheck package priced at $199.95 for 5 years of TSA PreCheck and 1 year of CLEAR. Note that a CLEAR Plus membership costs $189 a year on its own at the time of this writing.
You must have a valid form of identification, such as a U.S. driver's license or passport, to apply for TSA PreCheck. CLEAR Plus has the same enrollment requirement. You also must be 18 or older. However, keep in mind that minors can apply for TSA PreCheck. Furthermore, CLEAR is not available nationwide. Nevertheless, travelers will find CLEAR at some of the country's busiest airports, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Dallas–Fort Worth International Airport, and Los Angeles International Airport, to name a few.
CLEAR has mixed reviews
TSA PreCheck and CLEAR have respectively revolutionized the efficiency of airport security. Several videos on social media commend CLEAR. In one, TikTok user @loriloo007 said, "I estimate I save 45 minutes to an hour for each airport visit. I love it!" Another TikTok user, @jacindasun, noted it took her less than 10 minutes to get through security using CLEAR. However, some reviews criticize the service.
One person expressed dissatisfaction with CLEAR writing on the Better Business Bureau: "More often than not, it adds stress and time to the process. Systems are finicky and some staff are rude." Reviewers on Trustpilot shared the same sentiment, with one individual claiming, "When I got to the front of the line, they didn't have my info that should have been captured at the kiosk. Ridiculous system that doesn't work."
Additionally, there has been buzz that CLEAR might get banned from airports in California thanks to bill SB-1372, endorsed by Senator Josh Newman. Newman told CBS MoneyWatch that he believes CLEAR promotes inequality. "It's a basic equity issue when you see people subscribed to a concierge service being escorted in front of people who have waited a long time to get to the front of TSA line," said Newman. If you're interested in more ways to save time at the airport, check out how to tell if TSA PreCheck or Global Entry is best for you.