What is the difference between TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and CLEAR?
The short answer
TSA PreCheck speeds up US airport security and costs $85 or less for five years. Global Entry is a CBP programme for faster arrival into the US, costs $120 for five years, and includes TSA PreCheck access. TSA lists CLEAR as one of its authorised PreCheck enrolment providers.
TSA PreCheck
TSA says PreCheck gives trusted travellers a speedier security experience in dedicated lanes across the US. Enrollees can leave electronics in their bags, keep 3-1-1 liquids packed, and leave on belts, light jackets and shoes. TSA adds that no individual is guaranteed expedited screening.
TSA says you can get five years of benefits for $85 or less. Listed enrolment prices are $84.95 through CLEAR, $79.75 through IDEMIA and $85.00 through Telos. Listed renewal prices include CLEAR at $72.95 online and $84.95 in person, IDEMIA at $58.75 online and $66.75 in person, and Telos at $69.95 online and $58.75 in person.
Global Entry
CBP describes Global Entry as a Trusted Traveler Program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travellers on arrival in the United States. CBP says the application fee is $120 and membership lasts for five years. Benefits listed include reduced wait times in expedited processing lines at major US airports, use at land borders, and TSA PreCheck access.
All applicants must undergo a background check. CBP also says Global Entry members are eligible for TSA PreCheck benefits.
CLEAR
The TSA page names CLEAR as one of three authorised PreCheck enrolment providers, alongside IDEMIA and Telos. It says you can get TSA PreCheck for free when you join CLEAR+, and a footnote says CLEAR issues a one time code to enrol in CLEAR+ for $134 for new members or $146 for online renewal, which is the CLEAR+ price minus the TSA PreCheck cost, with terms applying.
The CBP and TSA official pages did not describe CLEAR's own identity verification service in detail, so I have not described it further here.
Which to choose, and rules for visitors
PreCheck covers domestic and departure security screening. Global Entry covers arrival into the US and includes PreCheck. The CBP official page did not state who is eligible, so check CBP's eligibility page, as programmes are generally for specific nationalities and residents. Rules and fees change, so check the official page linked below before you travel.
Sources: TSA: PreCheck, CBP: Global Entry, CBP: Trusted Traveler Programs frequently asked questions. Read 5 November 2026. Rules and fees change, so check the official page before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
How much is TSA PreCheck?
TSA says five years of benefits for $85 or less, with listed enrolment prices of $84.95 (CLEAR), $79.75 (IDEMIA) and $85.00 (Telos).
How much is Global Entry and how long does it last?
CBP says the application fee is $120 and membership lasts five years.
Does Global Entry include TSA PreCheck?
Yes. CBP lists TSA PreCheck access as a Global Entry benefit.
Is CLEAR the same as TSA PreCheck?
TSA lists CLEAR as one of its authorised PreCheck enrolment providers, and offers PreCheck free with CLEAR+ under the stated terms.
Is PreCheck guaranteed on every flight?
No. TSA says no individual is guaranteed expedited screening.
Can I renew early?
For Global Entry, CBP says you can renew one year before expiry, and if you submit before expiration you can keep using benefits for up to 24 months after the expiration date.