TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, CLEAR

What each one does

• TSA PreCheck — $78 for 5 years. Faster security in 200+ US airports. Keep shoes/belt on, keep laptop in bag.
• Global Entry — $100 for 5 years. INCLUDES TSA PreCheck. Skip US Customs returning from abroad.
• CLEAR — $189/year. Skips ID-check line (different from security). Some airports only.

Quick decision

• Travel domestic only → TSA PreCheck ($78).
• Travel internationally → Global Entry ($100). It's only $22 more and includes PreCheck.
• Fly often through busy airports (Atlanta, LAX, Newark) → also add CLEAR.
• Fly twice a year max → skip them all. Lines aren't that bad.

FREE through credit cards

Many credit cards reimburse the application fee:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve ($550 annual fee) — covers Global Entry every 4 years.
• AmEx Platinum ($695 annual fee) — covers Global Entry + CLEAR Plus.
• Capital One Venture X ($395) — covers Global Entry.
• United Club Card / Delta Reserve — covers Global Entry.
• Even some lower-tier cards: Capital One Venture, Bank of America Premium Rewards.

Pay with one of these cards. Reimbursement appears as statement credit within a month.

Apply for Global Entry (best deal)

1. Go to ttp.dhs.gov (Trusted Traveler Programs).
2. Create login. Pay $100.
3. Wait for "conditionally approved" email (1-12 months).
4. Schedule in-person interview at an airport or enrollment center.
5. Or use "Enrollment on Arrival" — get interviewed when returning from a trip.
6. Bring passport + drivers license. Photo + fingerprints taken.
7. 5 minutes. Card mailed in 1-2 weeks.

For 75+ travelers

TSA standard procedure for 75+:

• Keep shoes, light jacket, and belt ON (already, no PreCheck needed).
• Pacemakers and joint replacements — tell agent. Hand-wand alternative.
• Wheelchair / scooter — TSA agents help, no need to stand.
• So PreCheck is less essential for 75+ — maybe skip and save $78.