Key Highlights
Navigating airport security can be stressful, but traveler programs can help. Here’s a quick look at CLEAR and Global Entry:
- CLEAR uses your biometrics to verify your identity, letting you skip the ID check line at airport security.
- Global Entry expedites your re-entry into the U.S. through customs after international travel.
- Global Entry membership automatically includes the benefits of TSA PreCheck, which speeds up the physical security screening.
- CLEAR is a private program, while Global Entry is a government-run Trusted Traveler Program.
- The best program for you depends on your travel habits, whether you fly mostly domestically or internationally.
Understanding CLEAR and Global Entry
Tired of long lines at the airport? Trusted traveler programs like CLEAR and Global Entry are designed to make your journey smoother, but they serve different purposes. Understanding how each one works can help you decide if one, or even both, is right for your travel style. Both programs aim to reduce your wait time, but they tackle different parts of the airport security process.
Essentially, CLEAR gets you to the front of the security screening line, while Global Entry helps you breeze through U.S. customs when you return from abroad. Let’s look closer at how each program accomplishes this and what makes them unique.
Overview of CLEAR: How It Works at Security Checkpoints
CLEAR is a private program that uses biometric technology to speed you through the identity verification part of the airport security checkpoint. Instead of waiting in line for a TSA agent to check your ID and boarding pass, you head to a designated CLEAR lane.
At the CLEAR kiosk, you’ll scan your boarding pass and then verify your identity by scanning your eyes or fingerprints. This advanced technology confirms you are who you say you are in seconds. A CLEAR ambassador will then escort you directly to the physical security screening area, allowing you to bypass one of the airport’s most time-consuming lines.
Keep in mind that you’ll still need to go through the standard security checks, including bag scanning and metal detectors. However, if you also have TSA PreCheck, you can be escorted to the faster TSA PreCheck lane for an even quicker experience.
Overview of Global Entry: Speeding Through U.S. Customs
Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program designed for pre-approved, low-risk travelers. Its main benefit is expediting your clearance process when you arrive in the United States after international travel. Instead of waiting in long customs lines, Global Entry members can use automated kiosks.
Upon arrival at a participating airport, you’ll go to a Global Entry kiosk, scan your passport or U.S. permanent resident card, and verify your identity with a fingerprint scan. You’ll also complete a digital customs declaration form right at the kiosk.
This streamlined process allows you to get through customs and border protection much faster than the standard procedure. A huge perk is that Global Entry membership also includes the benefits of TSA PreCheck, making it a valuable tool for anyone who travels internationally.
Key Differences Between CLEAR and Global Entry
The primary difference between these two programs lies in what they do and who runs them. CLEAR is a private company that expedites the identity-check portion of the security screening process at domestic airports. On the other hand, Global Entry is a government program that fast-tracks you through U.S. customs upon returning from an international trip.
While both aim to save you time, they operate at different stages of your airport journey. CLEAR gets you to the front of the security line, while Global Entry helps you bypass long lines at customs. We will explore their distinct eligibility rules and where each service is available.
Eligibility Requirements for Each Program
The requirements to join CLEAR and Global Entry differ significantly. For a CLEAR membership, the criteria are quite straightforward. You must be at least 18 years old and have a valid form of U.S. government-issued photo ID.
Global Entry, being a government program that includes a full background check, has more stringent requirements. To be eligible, you must be a U.S. citizen, a U.S. lawful permanent resident, or a citizen of certain other countries. Applicants undergo a rigorous screening process and an in-person interview at an enrollment center. Certain criminal convictions may disqualify you from the program.
Here’s a quick summary of eligibility:
- CLEAR:
- At least 18 years old
- U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
- Valid photo ID (e.g., U.S. driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID)
- Global Entry:
- U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident, or citizen of select foreign countries
- Must pass a comprehensive background check and in-person interview
Where Each Program Is Available in the U.S. and Internationally
The availability of CLEAR and Global Entry varies. A CLEAR membership can be used at over 50 participating airport locations across the United States, as well as some stadiums and entertainment venues. However, it is not available for use at international airports outside the U.S.
Global Entry has a broader airport footprint. It’s available at over 77 airports, including major hubs in the United States and preclearance locations in several other countries. This means Global Entry members can complete the U.S. customs process before they even board their flight back to the U.S. from certain international destinations.
Here is a comparison of their availability:
| Feature | CLEAR | Global Entry |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Locations | 50+ airports and 15+ stadiums | 77+ airports worldwide |
| International Availability | No (U.S. domestic airports only) | Yes (including preclearance locations) |
Costs and Membership Details
When deciding between CLEAR and Global Entry, cost is a major factor. The initial fees and renewal fees for each program are structured differently. CLEAR has a higher annual cost, while Global Entry has a lower fee that covers a five-year membership, offering significant long-term value, especially since it includes TSA PreCheck.
Fortunately, you might not have to pay the full price out of pocket. Many travel-focused credit cards offer statement credits that reimburse the application fee for one or both of these programs. Let’s examine the specific costs and available discounts.
Initial Fees, Renewal Fees, and Payment Options
The cost structure for these programs is a key differentiator. A standard CLEAR membership costs $209 per year. You can often find discounts through airline loyalty programs like Delta SkyMiles and United MileagePlus. You can also add up to three family members or friends to your account for an additional fee.
On the other hand, a Global Entry membership costs $120 for five years. This is a much lower price point, especially considering that the Global Entry application fee also covers a five-year TSA PreCheck membership, which would cost around $78 if purchased separately.
Payment for both programs is straightforward. You can use a major credit card for the online application. Remember that the Global Entry fee is nonrefundable, even if your application is denied, while CLEAR offers a refund within the first 60 days of membership.
Credit Card Discounts and Reimbursements
One of the best ways to offset the cost of these traveler programs is by using a credit card that offers a statement credit for the application fee. Many premium travel credit cards provide this perk as part of their benefits package.
For CLEAR, several American Express cards offer an annual statement credit that covers the full membership cost. For Global Entry, a wider range of cards provides a credit every four to five years to cover the application fee. This travel credit effectively makes your membership free.
Some popular cards offering these benefits include:
- The Platinum Card® from American Express: Offers an annual statement credit for CLEAR membership.
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Provides a statement credit for the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee every four years.
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Reimburses the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee every four years.
- Many co-branded airline and hotel cards also offer this valuable perk.
Application Processes Compared
The journey to becoming a member of CLEAR or Global Entry involves different steps and timelines. The application process for CLEAR is generally faster and simpler. You can start online and finish at any airport with a CLEAR location in just a few minutes.
In contrast, applying for Global Entry is a more involved, multi-step process that requires government approval. It includes an online application, a background check, and a mandatory in-person interview at an enrollment center. Let’s break down what to expect when you apply for each program.
Applying for CLEAR: What to Expect
Enrolling in CLEAR is a quick and convenient process. You can start your online application from home in minutes. The only requirement is that you are at least 18 years old and have a valid form of U.S. photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
After you’ve started the process online, you’ll need to finalize your enrollment in person at any CLEAR airport location. This step takes only a few minutes. You’ll visit a CLEAR kiosk, where you’ll confirm your identity and an ambassador will help you scan your fingerprints and eyes to create your secure biometric profile.
Once your biometrics are captured, your membership is active immediately. You can start using the CLEAR lane right away to skip the traditional ID checks and speed up your airport security process.
Applying for Global Entry: Steps and Processing Time
The Global Entry application process is more extensive than CLEAR’s. First, you need to create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account and complete a detailed online application, which requires personal information for a background check. After submitting the application and paying the non-refundable fee, you must wait for conditional approval.
Once you receive conditional approval, the final step is to schedule an in-person interview at a Global Entry enrollment center, which are often located at airports. During the interview, a Customs and Border Protection officer will verify your information, take your photo, and collect your fingerprints.
Be aware that scheduling an interview can be challenging, with wait times of weeks or even months at some locations. However, some travelers can use the “Enrollment on Arrival” option, which allows you to complete your interview upon returning from an international trip without a pre-scheduled appointment.
Choosing the Best Program for Your Travel Needs
So, which program is the right fit for you? The answer depends entirely on your travel patterns. If you are a frequent traveler who primarily takes domestic flights, one program might offer more immediate benefits. Conversely, if your adventures often take you across borders, the other program will be far more valuable.
To make the best choice, consider where you fly, how often you fly, and which part of the airport experience causes you the most delay. Let’s look at the specific advantages of each program to help you decide.
Advantages of CLEAR for Domestic Travelers
For those who fly mostly within the United States, CLEAR offers a tangible advantage at the security checkpoint. Its primary benefit is letting you skip the often-long line for ID and boarding pass verification. During peak travel times, this can save you a significant amount of time and reduce stress before your flight.
Because CLEAR is a private program, it operates separately from government-run programs like TSA PreCheck. However, the two work perfectly together. After using the CLEAR kiosk, you can head directly to the TSA PreCheck lane (if you’re a member) for an expedited physical screening. This combination creates one of the fastest paths through airport security.
Key advantages for domestic travelers include:
- Skipping the standard security line for ID checks.
- A predictable and speedy experience at the security checkpoint.
- The ability to add family members to your account.
- Availability at some stadiums and venues, not just airports.
Benefits of Global Entry for International Flyers
If your travels frequently take you outside the country, Global Entry is an indispensable tool. Its main purpose is to speed you through U.S. customs and border protection upon your return. After a long international flight, avoiding a lengthy customs line is a huge relief for any traveler.
A major selling point for Global Entry members is that membership automatically includes TSA PreCheck benefits. This means you get expedited security screening for domestic flights in addition to faster processing at customs. Considering its low five-year cost, Global Entry offers incredible value for international flyers.
The key benefits for international travelers are:
- Expedited processing through U.S. customs via automated kiosks.
- Significantly reduced wait times upon arrival from international flights.
- Full TSA PreCheck benefits are included with membership.
- More affordable long-term cost compared to CLEAR.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do CLEAR and Global Entry work together, or are they separate?
CLEAR and Global Entry are two separate programs that work independently but can be used together for the ultimate airport experience. You can use your CLEAR membership to bypass the ID check line and then use your Global Entry (which includes TSA PreCheck) to go through the faster physical security screening lane.
Does CLEAR grant the same benefits as Global Entry, or do I need both?
No, they offer completely different benefits. CLEAR speeds up identity verification at the security line, while Global Entry speeds up your passage through U.S. customs. Global Entry also includes the benefits of TSA PreCheck. For a faster experience at both security and customs, you would need to enroll in both programs.
Is CLEAR available at the same airports as Global Entry?
No, their availability differs. Global Entry is available at more airports, including international preclearance locations. CLEAR is available at over 50 U.S. airports and is expanding, but its network is currently smaller than Global Entry’s. It’s best to check each program’s website for a list of participating airport locations.
Can I use CLEAR for international travel like I can with Global Entry?
You can use CLEAR before an international flight at a participating U.S. airport to expedite the security screening process. However, CLEAR does not help with the customs process when you return to the U.S. For that, you need Global Entry, which is specifically designed to speed you through customs.
Are there any situations where CLEAR is more useful than Global Entry?
Yes. If you only travel on domestic flights and your home airport has long security lines, CLEAR is more useful. It directly addresses the bottleneck at the ID security checkpoint. For travelers with no international plans, the customs benefits of Global Entry would go unused, making CLEAR a more practical choice.